Ultra athlete on record pace at gruelling event

Vernon ultra athlete Shanda Hill is said to be “fighting the pain every step of the way,” as she continues her pursuit to finish the world’s longest triathlon, the Double Deca, in Leon Mexico.

As of this morning, Hill is in first place for the women and fourth place overall — and on a record pace — with 500 kilometres to go in the 844 km run which she hopes to finish by the end of this month.

“She is 50 km ahead of the second place female and has accomplished 300 km of her run and has 500 left to go,” said Jacs Spence, a spokesperson for Hill. “The long distances are difficult and many runners, including herself, are suffering from shin splints and swelling in their legs. She’s fighting the pain every step of the way and using ice baths to keep her swelling down.”

Spence said Hill’s goal right now is to complete the race by October 31.