Antoine Clément targets François D’Haene’s John Muir Trail record

Ultra-trail runner Antoine Clément is set to attempt a record-breaking run on the John Muir Trail in California on September 18. His objective is to surpass the existing record held by François D’Haene, which stands at 2 days, 19 hours, and 26 minutes.

The 340-kilometer course through the Sierra Nevada involves approximately 14,000 meters of elevation gain. To succeed, Clément aims to cover between 120 and 130 kilometers every 24 hours while minimizing sleep and rest periods.

This attempt is part of a broader trend in 2026 where D’Haene’s previous course records have become primary targets for elite athletes. Meanwhile, in the ultra-trail community, new equipment trends are emerging; during the UTMB, runner Tom Joly completed the 174 km race using a high-capacity Kailas FUGA waist belt instead of a traditional hydration vest, finishing 29th.