"Clear eyes, full hearts, can't lose".
- Eric Taylor
While this maybe the most famous quote from Friday Night Lights, it also rang true for Jack Kuenzle this past week when he shattered the record for the fastest round trip ascent / descent of Denali. Knowing that our faceGlove allowed Jack to keep his glasses clear of fog, while also protecting his nose and cheeks from the harsh environment, fills us with tremendous pride.
Denali, also known as Mount McKinley, stands tall as the highest peak in North America, an awe-inspiring challenge that has beckoned mountaineers for decades. Every year, individuals from around the world test their mettle against its rugged slopes, battling harsh weather conditions and sheer physical endurance. In a remarkable feat Jack Kuenzle not only scaled Denali but shattered the speed record, leaving an indelible mark on mountaineering history.
Denali, located in Alaska's breathtakingly beautiful Denali National Park, has long captivated the hearts of adventurers with its majestic allure. Standing at a formidable height of 20,310 feet (6,190 meters), the mountain poses numerous challenges, including extreme temperatures, fierce winds, and treacherous terrain. To attempt a record-breaking feat on this unforgiving peak requires unparalleled dedication, physical prowess, and mental fortitude.
Born with a passion for mountaineering, Jack Kuenzle has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible in the world of climbing. Hailing from a small mountain town in Colorado, Kuenzle developed a deep connection with nature from an early age. With each expedition, he sought to explore the unexplored, always craving the thrill of conquering new summits.
Kuenzle's quest to break the speed record on Denali was no ordinary endeavor. It demanded meticulous planning, comprehensive physical conditioning, and an unwavering focus on the ultimate goal. Months before his ascent, Kuenzle embarked on a rigorous training regime, including strength training, endurance exercises, and high-altitude acclimatization. He meticulously studied the mountain's topography, weather patterns, and historical data to devise a strategy that would maximize his chances of success. And obviously part of that planning was purchasing a faceGlove FLEX to ensure that his nose and cheeks would be protected in this harsh environment.
On the day of the ascent, Kuenzle set out with a small team of skilled climbers, each selected for their expertise and unwavering commitment. The journey was grueling, with the team battling steep slopes, icy crevasses, and freezing temperatures. With every step, Kuenzle's determination grew, fueled by his unyielding passion for mountaineering and his burning desire to etch his name in the annals of Denali's history.
As Kuenzle neared the summit, he knew he was within striking distance of his goal. Every muscle in his body ached, his lungs gasping for oxygen, but he refused to let exhaustion deter him. With sheer grit and mental fortitude, he pressed forward, his focus laser-sharp on breaking the speed record.
And then, with a final surge of energy, Kuenzle reached the summit of Denali in an astonishing time of 7 hours and 54 minutes, which was 14 minutes slower than previous record. However, Kuenzle knew that he would be able to make up time on the way down as he was planning to brave the steep slopes of Denali on skis. And did he! He smashed the previous record of 11 hours and 44 minutes held by Karl Egloff by a full hour and half when he finished with a time of 10 hours, 14 minutes and 57 second!
Jack Kuenzle's record-breaking feat on Denali will forever be etched in the annals of mountaineering history. His achievement not only showcases the immense physical and mental strength required to conquer nature's challenges but also serves as an inspiration to aspiring adventurers around the world. Kuenzle's indomitable spirit and unwavering pursuit of excellence remind us that with dedication, perseverance, and a deep respect for the mountains, we can overcome even the most formidable obstacles.
Thank you Jack for allowing us to be a small part of your accomplishment. Seeing you wear a faceGlove during this amazing record breaking feat fills us with immense joy. Thank you.
