Most PCT thrus began at the Mexican border within the same fourteen-day period. Some, like those passing Grace, almost flew up the trail, while others found the conditions too challenging to walk more than ten miles per day. The relentless sun and heat culled a few from the group permanently. Those who persevered soon found their own pace, fast or slow. Leapfrogging was common, as one hiker passed another only to be caught by that same person hours, days, or weeks later. Most hikers spent at least part of every day alone on the trail. Jerry Kriebel, the young man with the snake tattoo, was an exception. At the Kick Off, he attached himself to a group of six compatriots for whom hiking was something to do between parties. They stuck together like ice cubes in a glass. Jerry had no hiking experience, but weeks of walking toned even his apathetic muscles. Ed Galeano trailed behind the hard-drinking group, unable to single Jerry out and growing increasingly frustrated.
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