Runner Set New Oregon PCT Course Record in 2026
A physical therapist completed the 460-mile route in just over six days, shattering the previous mark by 59 hours.
Updated on Oct. 9, 2026 in Running
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In 2026, Ben Dullum successfully completed the Oregon section of the Pacific Crest Trail in 6 days, 1 hour, and 40 minutes. This effort established a new fastest known time for the 460-mile stretch, which includes over 65,000 feet of elevation change.
Why it matters
The achievement demonstrates the extreme physical demands of ultra-endurance efforts, as Dullum averaged 73 miles per day while maintaining a high caloric intake. The successful record attempt highlights the impact of rigorous, recovery-focused training on human performance.
Dullum beat the previous record by 59 hours, completing the 460-mile course with only 10 total hours of sleep. This accomplishment required fueling with 6,000 to 10,000 calories per day to sustain the pace.
The players
Ben Dullum
A physical therapist who established a new fastest known time for the Oregon section of the Pacific Crest Trail.
The details
To prepare for the grueling 460-mile route across Oregon, Dullum utilized aggressive, back-to-back training days to test his ability to recover quickly under fatigue. During the actual run, a seven-person support crew facilitated his progress, while he rotated through four pairs of running shoes to manage the wear caused by the terrain. He fueled his body with a massive daily intake of 6,000 to 10,000 calories to keep pace with the elevation-heavy course.
Timeline
2015: The previous record for the Oregon section of the PCT was established.
Early 2026: Ben Dullum began training for the PCT endurance run.
2026: Dullum completed the Oregon section of the trail in record time.
Health Landscape
This record-breaking run updates the benchmark established by the 2015 Pacific Crest Trail Oregon section fastest known time. It reflects the broader trend of athletes using specialized, data-driven recovery training to push the boundaries of multi-day endurance performance.
While these extreme efforts are not standard for most, the focus on back-to-back training days highlights the importance of recovery when increasing physical intensity. Discuss safe progression strategies and recovery monitoring with your doctor before attempting significant increases in your own training load.
The takeaway
Dullum's performance underscores how specialized training plans, such as testing recovery through back-to-back high-intensity days, can lead to significant athletic gains. For those increasing their own mileage, tracking recovery time and ensuring adequate caloric intake remain essential for injury prevention.
Further reading
Explore more training insights and athletic achievements in our Running section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Source - Bend, Oregon.
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