Kilian Jornet Completes Record Alpine Challenge

Kilian Jornet has accomplished a remarkable feat by climbing all 82 of the Alps' 4,000-meter peaks in just 19 days, a project he named 'Alpine Connections.' He covered 1,207 kilometers and gained 75,344 meters of elevation using only human power through a combination of trail running, mountaineering, climbing, and cycling, without any motorized assistance. Jornet's journey began on August 13 at Piz Bernina in Switzerland and concluded on September 1 at Barre des Écrins in France, shattering the previous record of 62 days set in 2015 by Ueli Steck. The expedition required immense physical and mental stamina, with Jornet averaging 17 hours of activity and only about 5 hours of sleep per night. Reflecting on his experience, Jornet described it as the most challenging and beautiful undertaking of his life, highlighting the emotional impact of the journey. His achievement further cements his status as one of the world's greatest mountain athletes, with numerous records and accolades in ultrarunning and ski mountaineering.