FKT Controversy: Ultrarunner Stunned by Plea Bargain for Cutting Switchback; Trial Set for Spring

December 24, 2024

In September 2024, Michelino Sunseri cut a signed switchback during an attempt to claim the fastest known time (FKT) for summiting Grand Teton Peak. He made record time, running the 13.2-mile out-and-back route in just 2 hours, 50 minutes, and 50 seconds.

However, when it was revealed to fastestknowntime.com that he’d cut a switchback, his record was revoked. And that was just the beginning of Sunseri’s troubles.

Later, after park rangers reviewed the Strava data and considered the accusations against Sunseri, they filed charges against him. He was officially accused of having ignored National Park signage to take a prohibited shortcut. Cutting a switchback in a national park is a misdemeanor and typically carries a fine of $5,000 or up to 6 months in jail. Gear Junkie