Climbing
Industry News
On Labor Day, professional runner Michelino Sunseri attempted to break the speed record for climbing and descending the Grand Teton, completing the feat in 2 hours, 50 minutes, and 50 seconds. This time beat the previous record by over three minutes but was soon overshadowed by controversy.
Sunseri admitted to cutting a switchback during his descent, violating National Park Service (NPS) regulations intended to protect the environment from erosion. This led the Fastest Known Time (FKT) website, which tracks such records, to reject his claim.
The incident sparked debate within the mountain running and climbing communities. Veteran mountaineers argued that Sunseri’s shortcut undermined the integrity of his achievement. Cutting switchbacks, while sometimes common in European races, is illegal in U.S. national parks and can cause erosion. David Gonzales, a writer and photographer, stressed that competitors must follow the official route for speed records to hold credibility. Similarly, Jackson-based runner Kelly Halpin expressed disappointment, noting that Sunseri was aware of the rules but chose to bypass them.
Adding to the controversy, photographers documenting Sunseri’s attempt, working for his sponsor The North Face, did so without permits. Their request for filming permits had been rejected due to safety concerns, but photos were still posted to The North Face’s social media accounts, fueling further criticism. The company initially celebrated Sunseri’s accomplishment but later removed the posts and distanced itself from the controversy, affirming its commitment to environmental protection and responsible trail use.
This episode underscores the tension between athletic ambition and environmental responsibility. While Sunseri remains a talented runner, the incident serves as a reminder of the ethical standards expected in public spaces, particularly within national parks. The debate also highlights the responsibilities of sponsors and athletes to ensure that their pursuits align with conservation efforts, emphasizing the importance of adhering to both legal and environmental guidelines.
