Hi! I’m Kumi. When I turned 50 last year, I didn’t want a big party—I wanted to do something that truly mattered. So I set out to attempt an FKT (Fastest Known Time) on the Long Path, turning my birthday into an opportunity to give back by raising funds for the New York–New Jersey Trail Conference to express my gratitude. Their volunteers work tirelessly to keep trails safe, accessible, and enjoyable for everyone. Because of their dedication, we’re able to experience the outdoors in meaningful ways—whether through sport, adventure, or simply time in nature.
Especially, As an Asian woman and an older runner, this journey means something deeper to me. I want to use this attempt to raise awareness and help create more space for people who are often underrepresented on the trails. Everyone deserves to feel welcome, supported, and empowered outdoors.
I started in November 2025 and gave it everything I had. But partway through, I had to stop. Walking away unfinished was heartbreaking. But some goals don’t let you go.
On May 3, 2026, I’m starting again—from Altamont, all the way to the 175th Street subway station in New York City.
This attempt is about more than a personal challenge and a finish time. It’s about resilience—about coming back stronger after falling short. And it’s about supporting something bigger than myself. The trails have given me so much: strength, connection, and community.
If this story resonates with you, I hope you’ll consider supporting the New York–New Jersey Trail Conference. Every contribution—no matter the size—helps protect and improve the trails we all enjoy.
At the same time, I would like to raise for “Connecting Youth with Nature,” a program run by Run Wild Inc. Run Wild is committed to connecting young people with nature, especially those kids who don't have much opportunity to access natural environments and contributions give them opportunities for trail work and trail running experiences. I believe that the natural environment teaches amazing life lessons to them that it is important for young people to grow up as a basic discipline. I would be so grateful if you could support my cause.
Long Path
The Long Path is a 358-mile long-distance trail with approximately 63,000 feet of elevation gain, stretching from the George Washington Bridge in New York City to Altamont, about 15 miles west of Albany. The route traverses some of the most iconic terrain in New York, including the Catskills—featuring the Escarpment Trail, the Burroughs Range (the state’s highest peak), and the Devil’s Path, one of the most challenging trails on the East Coast—as well as the Shawangunk Ridge and Harriman State Park.
The New York-New Jersey Trail Conference
The New York-New Jersey Trail Conference is a volunteer-powered 501(c)(3) non profit organization that builds, maintains, and protects trails to ensure safe, sustainable, and enjoyable access to the outdoors. Their commitment to conservation and stewardship keeps these trails open for generations to come. They have been protecting the Long Path for 50 years and they ensure its continued improvement, growth, and preservation.
Thank you.
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New York-New Jersey Trail Conference
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