University of Liverpool alumna Jasmin Paris makes history as the first woman to complete Barkley Marathons

Published on

(Jasmin Paris out on the Barkley Marathons trail; photo credit: David Miller)

Dr Jasmin Paris MBE (BVSc 2008), a University of Liverpool alumna and 2019 Alumni Award winner, has once again left the world in awe of her remarkable achievements. After conquering the Montane Spine Race in 2019, Jasmin is the first woman to complete the Barkley Marathons, one of the world’s toughest ultramarathons.

Her journey to this incredible feat began with her love for running, which she discovered during her first year in practice back in 2008. Since then, Jasmin has been pushing her limits, both physically and mentally. From her early days at the University of Liverpool’s School of Veterinary Science to her current role as a Senior Lecturer in Small Animal Internal Medicine at the University of Edinburgh, Jasmin’s determination and passion have always been unwavering.

The Barkley Marathons, held annually at Frozen Head State Park in Tennessee, USA, are renowned for their extreme difficulty and tough terrain. Participants must navigate five loops of rough, off-trail course, totalling 100 miles, within a 60-hour time limit. Despite the immense challenges, Jasmin crossed the finish line with only 99 seconds to spare, showcasing her extraordinary strength and perseverance.

(Jasmin Paris collapsed at the finish line after running for 59hrs 58mins and 21 seconds; photo credit: David Miller)

Reflecting on this race, Jasmin shared:

“Finishing the Barkley Marathons was a dream come true. It was a goal I’d been working towards for the last 3 years, the culmination of thousands of training miles, metres climbed, early alarms, and endless support from friends and family. I knew I had the tools to finish this year, all it required was the self belief to see it through. That self belief was what kept me going through the final hours of racing the clock on loop 5 when time seemed to be slipping away, and through the uphill sprint to the finish, when everything in my body was screaming at me to stop.

I’m overwhelmed by the kind messages of support I’ve received since the race from so many people across the world. I surprised myself at Barkley by pushing deeper than I have ever had to before, to achieve a dream. I hope I can inspire others to take on their own challenges, whatever they may be, and to have the self belief to see them through.”

Jasmin’s inspiring journey has earned her international admiration. She was recently awarded an MBE for her services to fell and long-distance running. As she continues to trailblaze in the world of ultrarunning, we look forward to witnessing her future endeavours that will inspire countless individuals to push their boundaries and pursue their dreams.

Read more about Jasmin’s memories of vet school here.