Superhero 46
On August 5th, 2021 at 9:10am, endurance athlete and trail runner Bethany Garretson began her attempt to beat the fastest known time (FKT) for the supported 46 high peaks challenge. The challenge includes summiting all 46 high peaks in the Adirondack Wilderness. The high peaks are known for their beauty and their elevation of over 4,000 feet. Each one is unique and breathtaking. Bethany finished 38 out of the 46 high peaks in 3 days and ended her attempt on Allen Mountain due to an injury and because she was off pace to beat the record.
Watching Bethany those 3 days was an honor. I am humbled that she allowed me to photograph this attempt. She built a team of superhero’s as she liked to call them. It was a magnificent display of community, teamwork, and support. A week before the attempt, Bethany and I were on the phone talking about the schedule. We both agreed that we felt it was important to document the whole team. Bethany especially felt that this story wasn’t just about her. The whole team was an equal part of the story. We can’t achieve these things alone and the community we surround ourselves with is important.
Bethany Garretson coming over the top of Whiteface Mountain.
Bethany Garretson and Katie Rhodes coming over the top of Whiteface Mountain to summit the peak. A crowd of onlookers cheers them on!
Bethany Garretson and Katie Rhodes summit the peak of Whiteface Mountain.
Kenny Rhodes supports Bethany Garretson with aid during her supported 46 FKT attempt.
Bethany Garretson and Katie Rhodes head back down Whiteface Mountain to continue Bethany's attempt at the 46 high peaks FKT.
Bethany Garretson is lead by her pacer Katie Rhodes on their decent of Whiteface Mountain.
Kenny Rhodes, Superhero 46 coordinator and transportation talks with Bethany Garretsons next pacer on the phone.
Bethany Garretson finishing the Whiteface Mountain trail.
Bethany Garretson completing Whiteface Mountain. Her coordinator Kenny Rhodes helping her into the van so she can rest while he drives her and Katie Rhodes to their next trail.
Bethany Garretson (Pink) hugs one of her Superhero teammates, Sara Jane King before sprinting onto her next high peak trail. From left: Kenny Rhodes, Katie Rhodes, Jason Christopher, Ashley Pascoe, Bethany Garretson, Sara Jane King.