At 91, American Dale Sanders, known as "Greybeard," completed the 3,530 kilometers of the Appalachian Trail and again became the oldest person to walk the entire route. The route crosses the eastern United States, connecting Springer Mountain in the state of Georgia to Mount Katahdin in Maine. Sanders completed all sections in under 12 months, the period established by the Appalachian Trail Conservancy to recognize the achievement.
The feat did not come without setbacks. According to Sanders, there were 71 falls over approximately one year. Some caused injuries and scratches on his arms, legs, and hands. "Thank God I didn't break anything, but I had some bruises and contusions. I didn't wipe off the blood. I just kept walking," he said.
One of the falls almost ended the challenge early. Sanders needed a hospital visit during the crossing, but even so managed to press on and complete the route. The previous achievement had already been his, and now he has reclaimed the record as the oldest person to complete the entire trail.
