I would be a great AAO Ambassador/Athlete because…..Currently I manage an outdoor retail store and keep very active in the outdoors.  I have enjoyed hosting events for the outdoor audience and educate the public on the benefits of technical apparel and gear for their adventures.  Marmot and Osprey are two of our most favorite manufacturers and we appreciate getting the adventurer into great gear.

The thing that I love most about mountain biking, kayaking, trail running, backpacking, skiing and whatever the season offers, is the thrill of new terrain and the feeling of accomplishment.  I continue to add new adventures to the list all the time.  

My proudest mountain biking moment was……  Completing a 50 mile ride for sure.  I had not been biking that long when the opportunity arose.  A “why not” attitude on open opportunity has always kept things interesting in my life.  

I am excited to be part of the AAO Ambassador/Athlete program because……  I respect the accomplishments and experiences of the athletes that make up this group.  Being part of a community like this keeps me looking at what is next. 

 Some accreditations that I have are…   ACA certified kayak instructor 

 Some of the organizations that I belong to are… Sierra Club member, Friends of Rock Bridge Memorial State Park, American Canoe Association…..

 Something most people don’t know about me-(that I’m O.K. with people knowing)-is…..  I was raised by a pack of coyotes that discovered me alone in the woods as a boy.  I was able to learn survival instinct and learned to hunt.  My howl never came around so I was eventually asked to leave the pack.  I sometimes find myself lifting my leg when I pee.     

 My favorite food is……  Going to go with the good ol’ fashioned pub burger here.  Bring on the fixin’s or just throw cheese, bacon and bbq sauce on it. 

 My biggest addiction is…….  Spending time with my family these days.  My wife and 3 year old son are a lot of fun to be around. 

 Free Range….  I discovered my deep connection with nature while growing up.  I realized the woods, was a place that removed my worries and offered the unknown.  I enjoy seeing others discover their inner connect on the trail, water, slopes, or whatever the surroundings.  The more we can appreciate it all, the more we will do to protect it.  That initiative may be selfish need to protect your favorite area or for the overall sake of others to discover what lies beyond the sidewalks.  

This entry was posted on Tuesday, May 15th, 2012 at 8:27 am and is filed under Ambassador Athletes. Categories: Ambassador Athletes. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.

 

The thing that I love most about climbing is……

I have a lot going on in my life and my mind is constantly racing from one thing to the next.  When I’m climbing, though, all of the fuzz just disappears.   The adrenaline and adventure of being high up on a wall or way up in the mountains relaxes me.  It requires a focus that doesn’t allow room for thinking about anything else in life.

 My proudest climbing related moment was……

Probably climbing The Nose on El Cap.  It’s not the hardest or most impressive thing in the world, but it was the point when I realized that I had no reason to be intimidated by the high and wild places in the world.  It’s not too different from the local crag – just taller!

 The Highlights of my involvement with climbing include:

Completion of The Grand Traverse in Teton National Park.  Summiting all of the major peaks

of the range in one ridgeline traverse push.

Many routes in Yosemite Valley including The Nose of El Capitan, Northwest Regular

Route of Half Dome and Separate Reality (an amazing splitter-crack roof)

Grade V Walls in Zion National Park including Mt Kinesava and Spaceshot

Many Climbs in Red Rocks including Lynn Hill’s Levitation 29 and The Rock Warrior

The Naked Edge in Eldorodo Canyon – if you ever get the chance, don’t pass it up!

The North Six Shooter in Indian Creek.  Only 3 pitches long but amazing climbing in a

spectacular setting – one of my favorite climbs of all time!

Any one of the laser-cut granite splitters at Devils Tower

Every day I get to go climbing is a highlight for me!

 I am excited to be part of the AAO Ambassador/Athlete program because……

I’m excited to be able to use AAO as a network.  I know there’s some strong climbers and experienced mountaineers in this group and I’m excited to be able to utilize others experiences.

 Some accreditations that I have are……

            WMI wilderness first aid certified

 Some of the organizations that I belong to are……

American Alpine Club

 Something most people don’t know about me-(that I’m O.K. with people knowing)-is…..

Airplanes and elevators scare the crap out of me!  Also horses – way too unpredictable, no thanks!

 My favorite food is……

Ice Cream

 My biggest addiction is…….

Rage Against The Machine.  I’m not an angry person and don’t enjoy angry music, but I cant get enough of these guys!

 Free Range…

I like Pina Coladas

And getting caught in the rain

I’m not much into health food

I am into champagne

I’ve got to meet you by tomorrow noon

And cut through all this red-tape

At a bar called O’Malley’s

Where we’ll plan our escape.

 

This entry was posted on Thursday, April 26th, 2012 at 12:20 pm and is filed under Ambassador Athletes. Categories: Ambassador Athletes. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The thing that I love most about climbing is……

The ability to be in the moment, push myself further than I believed, and spend quality time with great people while being outdoors.

 My proudest Climbing related moment was……

Anytime I do something beyond what I thought I could.  Also watching others do the same.

 The Highlights of my involvement with climbing/backpacking include:

• Solo trips on the Superior Hiking Trail
• Solo trips on and around numerous volcanoes in the PNW
• N. Cascades – copper peak, kangaroo ridge, silverstar, Early Winter Spires, Liberty Bell, Goat Wall
• Leavenworth, Washington – Outer Space, and various others
• Yosemite –  various routes
• Joshua Tree – various routes
• Smith Rock – Monkey Face and various other routes
• Minnesota North Shore – various ice and rock routes
• Ontario, Canada – various ice routes
• Winter camping on Lake superior – oofta-COLD!
• Getting folks involved in climbing or the outdoors, especially women who have always wanted to but never thought it was something they were mentally or physically strong enough to do.

I am excited to be part of the AAO Ambassador/Athlete program because……

I think it is an innovative use of resources to ask regional athletes and outdoor enthusiasts to help AAO maintain and build an even stronger customer/retailer base.  I would be proud to represent a company willing to take this route.  I believe the lines AAO represents are of high quality and would feel comfortable promoting them to retailers and individuals.  I am also excited to see the possibility of shoe demo’s and other hands on activities being considered as part of this program.  I believe this is by far one of the best ways to gain or maintain more customers.  It is definitely something we need more of in Minnesota.

 Some accreditations that I have are……

I have 10 years experience climbing, and working in outdoor retail.  I have also been teaching rock and ice climbing for 6 years.  I secretly dream of acquiring various guiding certifications at some point.

 Some of the organizations that I belong to are……

            Access Fund, Association of Experiential Education (up for renewal)

 Something most people don’t know about me-(that I’m O.K. with people knowing)-is…..

I toured around the US/Canada with a band back in the 90’s , selling their merchandise.  Big Bus, Big Hotels, Big Bucks, Big Fun. J

 My favorite food is……

            Grilled cheese and tomato soup.  Don’t forget the pickle.

 My biggest addiction is…….

            Staying up much later than I should

 Free Range...

I have taken the last few years off from climbing and travelling, as I was caring for my elderly cat who developed many special needs.  I am now faced with the great opportunity and challenge of ‘getting back in shape’ and rediscovery my passions! I have a slow start on a blog addressing the commitment of ‘beginning again’ (daring-diva.blogspot.com).

I am a jack of all trades – substitute teach, nanny, experiential education, outdoor retail, and bartend.  I love working with kids.  Anytime you have a good joke, you better share it with me!  Oh – Im also kind of random. 

This entry was posted on Thursday, March 15th, 2012 at 10:00 am and is filed under Ambassador Athletes. Categories: Ambassador Athletes. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.

The thing that I love most about working outdoors is sharing the beautiful places that I enjoy.  Seeing the look on peoples faces when you take them to the summit of some crazy random spire in Custer State Park that they only dreamed of going or did not even think was possible for them to climb is awesome.  Seeing the world through the eyes of folks that are trapped in the city or an office for most of their life makes me appreciate the choices I have made even more. 

 

 My proudest adventure related moment was kayaking on the Futa down in northern Patagonia.  I went down to experience the immense river valley before it was damned, and got into more then I bargained for.  I pushed my skills to the limit and then some.  I met great people, and experienced the joy of traveling through untrammeled beauty.

  

The Highlights of my involvement with working as a professional climbing guide include:

 

Why do I do what I do?  Growing up on an Illinois farm, I learned a lot about hard work and growing food for a hungry world, but would have never guessed in a million years that I’d spend my adult life working as a Rock Climbing Guide. Heck, I didn’t even experience rock climbing till after I got outa the Air Force.  Now it brings me great pleasure to have realized a decade long dream of owning a successful Sylvan Rocks Climbing Guide Service and School. 

 

In my opinion, succeeding in business has many of the same adrenalin adventure junkie rush experiences as rock climbing.  Both require you to push your parameters of what you think is possible.  Both require you to think on your feet, react to changing conditions, be your own leader, do more with less, and monitor the surrounding situation.  If you are to excel at climbing or self employment, you have work harder then you might think possible and ignite the passion that makes success so sweet when it comes.

 

Combining a life passion with sharing the outdoors with others is also an awesome way to pay it forward and show other folks that chasing the almighty dollar might not be the end all do all that our society makes it out to be.  While I might not be getting “rich”  the fringe benefits of our chosen lifestyle are keeping Cheryl and I quite happy.

 

 I am excited to be part of the AAO Ambassador/Athlete program because…… it makes me dig a little deeper and push a little harder because that tag on my jacket or backpack implies that I’m tough enough to wear it.  So I have to live up to that implied expectation by continuing to get after it.  As the decades pass and after the loss of to many good friends who have chased their passions to far, I’ll admit, I’ve slowed down, but hope to keep pulling down and pushing up for a few more seasons.  It is a big old crazy world out there and I’ve still got many many more adventures to live, and having good gear to do it in can make it easier to see that passion to its end.

 

Some accreditations that I have are……

Husband for over 15 years, farm boy, Wilderness First Responder, truckdriver/CDL holder, AMGA Single Pitch Instructor, Owner of an AMGA Accredited Climbing School, and my favorite…..Trail Blazer for the USFS!

 Some of the organizations that I belong to are……

Access Fund, AMGA, Black Hills Climbers Coalition

 Something most people don’t know about me-(that I’m O.K. with people knowing)-is…..

I am now a hunter.  “When in Rome” you know…..So in short, South Dakota is a sportsman’s paradise.   With the advice of a couple fellow climbers/hunters, I bought a shotgun, rifle, and a fly rod over the past few years and have enjoyed starting a few new hobbies.  I am ‘that’ bumbling idiot that has every thing to learn, and is enjoying the education.  Putting wild game (aka – organic food) on the table alongside the garden goodies we grow is a thing of beauty.

 My favorite food is…… Dark Dark Chocolate or home grown tomatoes?  Tough choice….

 My biggest addiction is……. Dark Dark Chocolate

 Free Range…

 I sometimes have the attention span of a camera flash.  While I would like to really master just one thing I suppose, I end up doing several things at once, and by the time I start getting pretty OK at something, I start looking for the next latest greatest as I get bored with the first thing.  Everything I end up doing though seems to take me through landscapes and beautiful places I’d not have visited otherwise.  This seems to be a central quest in my life.  Which I guest starts to explain why I’m sitting here in Greenland writing this……  Next lifetime…I am gunna figure out how to really get excited about something like stamp collecting.

This entry was posted on Sunday, March 11th, 2012 at 10:47 pm and is filed under Ambassador Athletes. Categories: Ambassador Athletes. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.

Something most people don’t know about me-(that I’m O.K. with people knowing)-is…..

Jason: I have an alter ego “Jay Money”.

Mykael Ann: I am scared of heights.

The Highlights of my involvement with rock climbing include…

Jason: Sending anything before my wife does!!!

Mykael Ann: Being a member of the US Climbing Team from 2002-2009. 4 time national speed climbing champion and 2 time continental speed climbing champion. But most of all being able to travel all over the world to climb meet new people and see new places.

The Highlights of my involvement with mountain biking include…

Jason: After 11 years of avid mountain biking I’ve come to appreciate that every time I clip in and tear down some super tight single track, that is a highlight in itself.

My favorite food…

Jason: Sushi

Mykael Ann: Dirty Mexican after a long day at the crag.

 Some accreditations that I have are…

Jason: Soon to be father, Journeyman Electrician, CPR First Aid and Super Cool Cat.

Mykael Ann: Professional Firefighter, Paramedic, SWAT medic for the City of Independence, HAZMAT Technician and soon to be Mommy.

 The thing that I love most about rock climbing/ bouldering is…

Jason: The constant challenge, the gratification of a good send, the community and being able to hang out with my best friend/wife in some pretty amazing places.

Mykael Ann: It does not matter what level you climb at there is always something out there to challenge you.  The mental and physical aspects of climbing force you to think outside the box and push yourself, constantly challenging your own limits.

 The thing I love most about mountain biking is…

Jason: The burn in your legs and lungs after a long climb, the way you can float down some single track on a line that you’ve never seen before even though you’ve rode this trail a thousand times. The bomber down hills, the wipe outs and a little bit “o” mud.

My biggest addiction is: 

Jason: BEER, I like two kinds, good beer and free beer. In that order.

Mykael Ann: Back scratches, kitties and private bathrooms.

 Some of the organizations that we belong to are:

Access Fund, Arkansas Climbers Coalition, USA Climbing.

 Free Range: May 22, 2010 Mykael Ann and I got married at our favorite crag, Horseshoe Canyon Ranch in Arkansas. From there we honeymooned/bouldered in Virgin Gorda for a week. Climbing on the giant boulders ocean side was amazing experience. We were brought together by a sport that we both love and vowed to never stop traveling and climbing in every place that we could ever want to climb. For our 1^st anniversary we took a 10 day trip out west, we started in Squamish B.C. and traveled south down the coast to Smith Rocks climbing in central Washington along the way. Our last trip was a New Year’s trip to HCR and that was officially the last time my wife was allowed to climb, due to the fact that she was 7 months pregnant in January.

Mykael Ann officially retired from climbing on a professional level in 2009 and has started the next chapter in her climbing career, coaching. As the head coach of Team IBEX here in Kansas City she is sharing her knowledge and love of the sport with the next generation of little climbers. Although Team IBEX has a ways to go Mykael Ann remains enthusiastic about the small group of kids she has the opportunity to get to know and coach.

Over the course of the last year I started an outdoor adventure outfit called In The STIX Adventure Trips. Aimed at teaching and guiding aspiring climbers, to the adventures of outdoor climbing.  I have been able to incorporate my love for photography into In The STIX, offering clients not just a day or a weekend at some pretty cool crags but to capture and document the entire experience for them as well.

This entry was posted on Sunday, March 11th, 2012 at 10:41 pm and is filed under Ambassador Athletes. Categories: Ambassador Athletes. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.

The thing that I love most about kayak expeditioning is paddling big distances every day, living outside, and being in remote places. The solitude makes me feel very self-sufficient and peaceful.

My proudest paddling related moment was: the second to last day of our (my husband Matt and my) 2009 kayak circumnavigation of Lake Superior. You’d think that finishing would be the proudest moment, but it wasn’t. The second to last day we paddled more than 50 miles (after averaging about 25 miles per paddling day the rest of the trip) and completed a 12 mile open water crossing that 3 months earlier we had joked about as though it would be a suicide mission. I came a long way as a paddler during our 72 day, 1300 mile circumnavigation of Lake Superior and that was the day I realized how far I had come.

The highlights of my outdoor adventuring have been:
Hiking with Matt Abbotts through 3 states of his Appalachian Trail thru-hike.
Kayaking 1300 miles around Lake Superior in 2009
Backpacking 900 miles of th Pacific Crest Trail
And planning our 2012 expedition to circumnavigate Lake Baikal in Russia (expedition begins June 2nd 2012)

I am excited to be part of the AAO ambassador team because:  it gives me the opportunity to share my experiences with a wider audience while utilizing gear from some brands that I trust to work for me wherever I am and am proud to use.

Something that people don’t know about me is: that I’m a certified permaculturalist. Also, my husband and I host an underground chicken wing night at our house.

Favorite food: I really don’t discriminate when it comes to eating, all food is good food. That being said – I consider cookies to be their own food group. My food pyramid is mostly cookies and veggies.

My biggest addiction: see “cookies” (above)

Free Range:
I’m an urban chicken farmer…that’s pretty free range. Also, I’m a forester which makes me susceptible to finding bad jokes really funny. I purchased a house for $5000, it’s grungy and I didn’t have indoor plumbing for a long time, but it is one of my secrets to success – contrary to popular belief homeownership can really cut down on a persons responsibilities (as long as you have low standards). I’ve dabbled in a few “professions” only to find that being a “professional” is not my thing, so for now I’m sticking with lots of hard work in crummy jobs (like substitute teaching and bartending) to finance 3-4 months a year of fun-employment. I love traveling. I’ve learned so much from just going out into the world and gathering experiences.

This entry was posted on Sunday, March 11th, 2012 at 10:35 pm and is filed under Ambassador Athletes. Categories: Ambassador Athletes. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.

My favorite thing about being outside is……

Enjoying the moments that can never be captured completely by stories, photographs or words.  Enjoying blue skies, great friendships and perfect conditions.  My success in the outdoors is far more about the people and the location than the activity at hand, or the successes that are achieved.  I have made some amazing friendships working and playing outdoors in my life.

My proudest athletic achievement was……

Finishing the Superior Trail 50 mile race in 2001.  I finished in just over 11 hours and in 11^th place overall.  It was my first 50 mile race…..and last.  I learned that bikes are a much easier mode of transportation.

Highlights of my outdoor career include:

Guided students in the Grand Canyon for 11 years over Thanksgiving break.

• Led university students on over 100 trips:  rock and ice climbing, backpacking, skiing, caving, paddling, mountain biking, winter camping and kayaking.
• Association of Outdoor Recreation and Education Board Member (2007-2010)
• Hosted the 2009 AORE National Conference

I am excited to be a part of the AAO Ambassador Athlete program because….

I’m passionate about the outdoors and the opportunity to expose new people to it.  I love the definition of being an ambassador and hope that my outdoor ethic and way of life can be seen as a model for the companies I represent and the activities I pursue.  Additionally, my striking good looks and abnormally large nose make me an excellent candidate to represent awesomeness.

Some certifications I have :

Wilderness First Responder

CPR

Organizations I belong to:

Association of Outdoor Recreation and Education

Minnesota Off Road Cyclists

United States Racquetball Association

Wednesday Night Sendfest

Sam’s Club

Something most people don’t know about me:

I’ve never ridden a rollercoaster and was scared of almost everything as a kid.

My favorite food is……

Sushi and Single Malt Scotch, not necessarily in that order, or together.

My biggest addiction is:

Gear and really light bike stuff.

Other Info:

I have been the program director of the University of Minnesota’s Center for Outdoor Adventure for over 10 years.  I also teach rock climbing, racquetball and outdoor leadership at the U of MN.  I love being a jack of all trades in the outdoors and actively try to split my time between rock and ice, cycling, paddling, backpacking and any other adventure that comes my way.  I’ve been married for ten years and have 2 amazing daughters (1 and 3 years old).  When I am not in the outdoors you will find me playing with my kids or playing racquetball; where I am a sponsored athlete for Head/Penn racquetsports.

 

This entry was posted on Wednesday, March 7th, 2012 at 3:03 pm and is filed under Ambassador Athletes. Categories: Ambassador Athletes. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.

The thing that I love most about rock climbing is……

 How multi-faceted it is.  I love that it is not only about pushing my physical limits, but also about mental fitness and how confident and serene I can be.  I also love that while it is very much about my relationship with my self—my body awareness and mental state—it is also a partnership sport.  The friendships I have made through climbing have been the best in my life.

 My proudest rock climbing-related moment was……

 Quite possibly during a trip to City of Rocks, Idaho last summer.  I was there with three friends, two of whom had never been on a multi-day climbing trip to an unfamiliar destination before.  I took the three of them up a multi-pitch route and did my best to ensure that the experience was exciting but not scary.  It was a day of many firsts for them – first multi-pitch, first free-hanging rappel and first time getting lost on the hike out!  Everyone had a great time and was psyched for future trips.

 The Highlights of my involvement with rock climbing include:       

Teaching the women’s ice climbing clinic at the Sandstone Ice Fest, for the last four years.

Becoming experienced and confident enough that I can act as a mentor to other women.

Becoming more confident on lead.  While I will never be climbing at a groundbreaking level, I am happy to push my trad leading into 5.9-5.10 territory and get more comfortable on 5.11 sport leads.

Also becoming more confident as a boulderer!  Several friends have made me more willing to boulder, and I competed in the Best of the Midwest Competition last spring, coming in second in the Diva category.  Admittedly there were only three people in the 40-and-over category, but nevertheless I was there!

 I am excited to be part of the AAO Ambassador/Athlete program because……

 I love all aspects of this sport and am enthusiastic about Marmot and Osprey products!  I’m particularly fond of the Marmot Windshirt (greatest layer ever) and the Osprey Variant pack (best climbing pack known to man).

 Some of the organizations that I belong to are……

 Access Fund

Minnesota Climbing Association

 Something most people don’t know about me-(that I’m O.K. with people knowing)-is…..

 I play the cello.  I played in an orchestra during high school and college then abandoned it for many years until some musical friends got me into improvisation.  Now I join them for occasional group sessions.

 My favorite food is……

 Pastries!  The good stuff, that is, although gas station doughnuts are perfectly acceptable!

 My biggest addiction is…….

 Leading.  While I’m all for a fun toprope, there’s nothing so fun as travelling to a new location and getting on the sharp end!

Free Range

 I live with a charming designer/mechanic and a giant feisty furball of a dog.  Together we love science fiction in all forms, from books to superhero movies.  We share an interest in motorcycles and vintage automobiles, enjoy a martini, and like to plan future home renovations.

This entry was posted on Monday, March 5th, 2012 at 2:18 pm and is filed under Ambassador Athletes. Categories: Ambassador Athletes. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.

The thing that I love most about climbing is: the sense of freedom and focus that comes with it.  You are forced to be totally immersed in the moment in order to be successful.

 My proudest climbing related moment: was my first WI5 lead Reflection Wall in Orient Bay.  I felt like I could finally call myself an ice climber when I topped out.

 The Highlights of my involvement with climbing include:

A link up of Cryophobia and Hydrophobia with Scott Backes

Climbing the Cassin Ridge with Dean Einerson

First ascents of several traditionally protected mixed routes up to M8- in areas adjacent to Nipigon in NW Ontario.

Competing at the Ouray Ice Festival

 I am excited to be part of the AAO Ambassador/Athlete program because: it is an opportunity for me to connect with new people, and maybe even provide some feedback that companies can use to improve their products.

 Some of the organizations that I belong to are: the Access Fund and the AAC.

 Something most people don’t know about me is that: I’m afraid of heights.

 My favorite food is: whatever I’m eating at the moment.

 My biggest addiction is…….

Playing with my kids is my greatest joy.  I was one of those guys who was never all that into kids but having children has been the greatest thing in my life.

I also tend to be a bit obsessive about my work, I am a commercial fisherman, during the summer season.

This entry was posted on Thursday, March 1st, 2012 at 3:40 pm and is filed under Ambassador Athletes. Categories: Ambassador Athletes. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.

This entry was posted on Monday, February 13th, 2012 at 11:15 pm and is filed under Ambassador Athletes. Categories: Ambassador Athletes. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.

The thing I love most about photography is…

A lot of activities can take you places but nothing can beat photography. You can work on a project in your own studio one day and be off shooting a world level competition the next.  The possibilities are endless! Not only can I shoot things I am passionate about, but I also get learn about other peoples passions.  You get to immerse yourself in new and interesting endeavors all the time, and get to tell stories through photographs that really stick with people for a lifetime.

My proudest Life related moment was…

Holding out for what you know you want, even against all odds, brings about the most pride because it means you must steadfast through countless obstacles.  I have had one moment like this so far, and I am working hard to make a career in photography be the second.  Ask me again in a few years.

The Highlights of my involvement with photography and climbing include:

I am working hard to break into a more prominent role in photography right now.  Most of what I have done thus far has been on my own time.

I have shot at the Teva Mountain Games and national and local level climbing and bouldering events.  I have also had photographs displayed at fairs and a few photos and articles in Momentum Magazine (local adventure sport mag).

Currently, I am working on an article about access issues in Iowa related to climbing and bouldering.

I will be shooting at both adult and youth bouldering nationals at the end of the month, as well as the Drake Relays and the National track meet at Drake stadium later this year.

Climbing

I have coached many young athletes to national level competitions, but more importantly I have shared the joy of climbing and the outdoors with many kids whose lives have been changed for the better because of the sport. Nothing could make me more proud.

I personally keep climbing and improving my climbing skills.  I am certainly no Sharma, but I love climbing and enjoy training to improve.  I like to compete here and there and always have a great time.

I am excited to be part of the AAO Ambassador/Athlete program because…

I hope this leads to some new and exciting opportunities as a photographer and an athlete.  Athletes are the ones that usually get most of the attention when it comes to gear.  As a photographer I am out in the field before and after everyones else great gear is essential for this.  Working together with these companies can be a win-win for us.

Some accreditations that I have are…

I am a level 1 route setter and have my Advanced Diver Cert.  Other then that, I have a vast knowledge about a lot of different things.  I am a mostly self taught photographer and know about design, web design, Photoshop, and many other programs.  I have a great eye for video as well.

Some of the organizations that I belong to…

Access Fund, National Association of Photoshop Professionals

Something most people don’t know about me (that I’m O.K. with people knowing) is…

I want to have a food stand at the Iowa State Fair someday.  That would be pretty sweet!

My favorite food is…

Ciabatta Bacon Bomb

This is an open face sandwich that I made and a friend named the Ciabatta Bacon Bomb.  But in general, anything I can cook, I love to eat.

My biggest addiction is…

Caribou’s Mochas with milk and dark chocolate

Free Range….(insert whatever you would like..is the proud parent of…., enjoys…., is sometimes known to…., etc.

I am a proud father of a 3 year old that is hairier than I am.  Her name is Mya and she is one of the best dogs of all time.

I am one of the few people who truly likes seasons.  I want snow and cold in the winter and heat in the summer. You will never hear me complain about the cold especially if I have a sweet down coat.

See More. . .

Visit my website, www.hueyphotography.com, to learn more about me and see some of my images from around the world.  Always focus on what’s important.

This entry was posted on Monday, February 13th, 2012 at 3:35 pm and is filed under Ambassador Athletes. Categories: Ambassador Athletes. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.

The thing that I love most about Triathlons is training three disciplines in a wide range of conditions (swimming in a pool or Lake Michigan, biking on a mountain bike pulling two kids or in a tuck on a tri bike, running the track or trail).  When you reach your end with one activity, it’s on to the next. 

 My proudest athletic achievement was completing the Chicago Marathon in 1999.  I will never run another marathon (I love triathlon much more!), crossing the finish line brought tears to my eyes.

 The Highlights of my travels include: Skiing in Park City (UT), snorkeling in Belize, hiking in St. John (USVI) and kayaking in Sanibel Island (FL).

I am excited to be part of the AAO Ambassador/Athlete program because suburbanites need exposure to great gear.  Our local outdoors stores carry very few items represented by AAO.  Time for the world to see more!

 Some accreditations that I have are:

            CPR / First Aid Instructor, Lifeguard, Swim Instructor, Personal Trainer (in process). 

Some of the organizations that I belong to are:

            Manager, Wheaton College Sports & Recreation Complex

 Something most people don’t know about me (that I’m O.K. with people knowing) is I recycle old race and college t-shirts into quilts.

 My favorite food is Lindt Chocolate

 My biggest addiction is sleep.  I love sleep, and can’t function without it.

 

I’ve been married for 14 years, and have two girls (6 and 4).  Parenting is more difficult than any race.  The two words that may not be said in our house: “I can’t”.  My blog, The Lotus and the Lorax (Reinventing the surburban life with adventures in sport, travel, health and nutrition) can be found at www.thelotusandthelorax.blogspot.com

This entry was posted on Tuesday, January 10th, 2012 at 2:08 pm and is filed under Ambassador Athletes. Categories: Ambassador Athletes. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.

The thing that I love most about climbing and backpacking is……

I can insert myself completely into nature. You can never be closer with the world than when you are on the rock, or sleeping on the forest floor. There is a world out there to explore, and climbing and backpacking are great ways to explore it.

 My proudest climbing related moment was……

Last winter, during an attempted winter traverse of the presidential range, my friends and I made the hard decision to turn around because of horrid weather conditions. We summitted Mount Washington the next day, but I was quite proud that we were able to put our safety ahead of our desire to traverse.

 The Highlights of my involvement with climbing include:

Winter ascents of Mount Washington and Mount Madison

Summit of Nangkar Tshang and a few others in the Himalayas

Putting up some first ascents and boulder problems in Saudi Arabia with a few friends.

 I am excited to be part of the AAO Ambassador/Athlete program because……

AAO’s program is a great way for me to meet other people who love the outdoors as much as I do

 Some accreditations that I have are……

Wilderness First Aid

Some of the organizations that I belong to are……

The Geological Society of America

The Sierra Club

 Something most people don’t know about me-(that I’m O.K. with people knowing)-is…..

I was born in California, but moved to Calgary, Canada in 1993, and have lived in Saudi Arabia since 2001. I’ve travelled to 30 countries in my lifetime.

 My favorite food is……

My mom makes a casserole with tortillas, beef, cheese, and peppers. It’s aptly named Tortilla Casserole, and while I couldn’t eat it every day for the rest of my life, Tortilla Casserole is definitely my favorite food.

 My biggest addiction is…….

Chocolate. There is no competition in this category. I have absolutely no self control when it comes to chocolate, especially 70% dark.

 Free Range….

Apart from my outdoors pursuits, I play guitar, soccer, and rugby, and I absolutely love to read. While I love the alternate worlds of Fantasy and Fiction, my dad has instilled in me a great love of history, which I find fascinating. In general, I love to learn, and have encyclopedia knowledge on a number of less-than-useful subjects. I’m currently pursuing a Bachelor’s of Science in Geology at Wheaton College.

 

Check out my blog at http://blessedoutdoors.blogspot.com/

This entry was posted on Tuesday, January 10th, 2012 at 2:02 pm and is filed under Ambassador Athletes. Categories: Ambassador Athletes. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.

The thing that I love most about rock climbing/ bouldering is…… introducing new people to the sport and seeing them make it all the way through their first challenging climb.  I remember completing my first climb where I really had to push myself and it is awesome to see the excitement in a new climber when they do the same. 

 My proudest –climbing -related moment was……  completing 24 Hours of Horseshoe Hell and exceeding my goal for the competition. 

 The Highlights of my involvement with climbing include:

24 Hours of Horseshoe Hell – 2010

Climbed the full 24 hours

Anytime I introduce somebody new to the sport and they love it!

Leading my first 5.11 when I wasn’t sure I could

 I am excited to be part of the AAO Ambassador/Athlete program because……It gives me an opportunity to introduce more people in my area to the sport of climbing while promoting several bomber brands that I use and love on a regular basis.

 Some accreditations that I have are……

EMT-Basic/Firefighter

Licensed Nationally and in Missouri

Rope Rescue Technician

Confined Space Rescue Technician

I love climbing!

 Some of the organizations that I belong to are……

Alumni member of Mizzou Climbing Club

Firefighter’s Association of Missouri

 Alpine Shop Hiker’s and Kayaker’s clubs – as a leader and instructor

Wilderness Wednesdays (a club of sorts, organized by me and several of my Columbia friends, we get groups together on random weekdays to go out and camp for the night)

 Something most people don’t know about me-(that I’m O.K. with people knowing)-is…..

 despite the fact that I have been a big tom-boy my whole life, (what else can you expect from a girl with two totally awesome older brothers!), after a day of playin’ hard outside I LOVE getting all fancied up, (that includes wearing a dress), and goin’ out with my friends!

 My favorite food is……Bacon… or avocado…or bacon and avocado!

 My biggest addiction is…….going on adventures!

 Free Range….I’m the proud parent of one horse, Max; I have been known to swim around in lakes and oceans, with the help of a self contained underwater breathing apparatus; I am often found in trees; I rarely watch TV; and every once in awhile I think I might be an astronaut when I grow up.

This entry was posted on Wednesday, December 21st, 2011 at 2:22 pm and is filed under Ambassador Athletes. Categories: Ambassador Athletes. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.

One of the most important things for me is the quality of my gear.  It gets me to where I want to go no matter how far or high.  AAO and its brands represent what quality in the outdoors is all about.  Being a part of that idea is important to me.

The thing that I love most about adventure cycling is……

It´s always humbling.  Sometimes I have days on the bike when I feel I could pedal up Everest, but the next day, a mile seems like an eternity.  It can chew you up and spit you out and then give you a Christmas present.  It´s constantly changing, keeps me centered and makes me earn what is next.

 My proudest adventure cycling related moment was……

The first time I passed1,000 miles.  It was still fairly new at the time and I thought, “that´s a long way for a car!”

 The Highlights of my involvement with adventure cycling include:

- Every time I hit the top of a multiple day-long mountain pass

- Eating

- Washing off in the Pacific after a long day

  I am excited to be part of the AAO Ambassador/Athlete program because……

I currently use many of the products and brands AAO represents, so to have the opportunity to showcase them is a huge plus.

Some accreditations that I have are……

- Poorly spoken Spanish

- Proud uncle

Something most people don’t know about me-(that I’m O.K. with people knowing)-is…..

Sometimes I am incredibly afraid of heights and I’m a ridiculous Wisconsin football fan.

 My favorite food is……

Scrambled eggs with broccoli and spinach or a good medium-rare burger.  Oh and Coffee!

 My biggest addiction is…….

Throwing things and Espn.com

Free Range…

Being in the middle of nowhere on a bike with no real aim but south is an absolutely freeing thing.  Point A to Point B is concrete, but the distance in between is what moves you.

Be sure to check out Brett’s blog at www.conbigotes.com!

This entry was posted on Thursday, December 8th, 2011 at 10:16 am and is filed under Ambassador Athletes. Categories: Ambassador Athletes. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.

THE THING THAT I LOVE MOST ABOUT CLIMBING…
There will always be something I can’t climb but I’ll always try.

MY PROUDEST CYCLING-RELATED MOMENT WAS…
Riding in my first century ride on a fixed gear cross bike. The first 50 miles were casual, but the rest of the ride we were hit with 20 mph headwinds and heavy rain. I could’ve quit anytime and it would’ve been the furthest I had ever ridden, but suffering can be good.

THE HIGHLIGHTS OF MY INVOLVEMENT WITH CLIMBING INCLUDE…
Having a namesake boulder problem in Australia called American Pi. The best problem in Australia.

I AM EXCITED TO BE PART OF THE AAO AMBASSADOR/ATHLETE PROGRAM BECAUSE…
AAO represents gear that would I use with or without the ambassador program.

SOME ACCREDITATIONS I HAVE ARE…
The man of tomorrow.

SOME OF THE ORGANIZATIONS THAT I BELONG TO ARE
Access Fund
Minnesota Climbing Association
US Tennis Association
US Table Tennis Association
Minnesota Climbing Cooperative

SOMETHING MOST PEOPLE DON’T KNOW ABOUT ME (THAT I’M OK WITH PEOPLE KNOWING) IS…
I always wanted to be a spy & I don’t like heights.

MY FAVORITE FOOD IS
Sweet sticky rice with mangos.

MY BIGGEST ADDICTION IS
Food

 

 

This entry was posted on Tuesday, August 23rd, 2011 at 10:44 am and is filed under Ambassador Athletes. Categories: Ambassador Athletes. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.

Nic Oklobzija

The thing that I love most about climbing is……

I love finding new things, putting chalk on my hands and brushing new boulder and routes.

My proudest climbing related moment was……

Either my ascent of “The Shield” in LRC or the FA of “The Raven” in Minnesota. Both are special because at first they felt impossible and they are both beautiful lines.

The Highlights of my involvement with climbing include:

See 8a.nu for tick list

I am excited to be part of the AAO Ambassador/Athlete program because……

AAO represents some of the best gear in the industry and products I can stand behind. And because Jon is so into alpine/ice climbing it will be nice to have a pebble puller on the team…

Some accreditations that I have are……

Level 3 USA Climbing Route Setter.

Husband

Some of the organizations that I belong to are……

Access fund

Minnesota Climbers Association

Something most people don’t know about me-(that I’m O.K. with people knowing)-is…..

I own a house, I am married, and I hate ice climbing

My favorite food is……

Punch Pizza. Margarita (pizza)and a half a punch salad.. Bomb.com

My biggest addiction is…….

Swiss Granite.

**Check in with nicrosclimbing.blogspot.com for more up to date information on Nic’s adventures and the Minnesota climbing scene.**

This entry was posted on Wednesday, August 10th, 2011 at 4:25 pm and is filed under Ambassador Athletes. Categories: Ambassador Athletes. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.

Greg Padovani

 

 

The thing that I love most about climbing is……

The sense of accomplishment I feel when I accomplish a route or problem that I never thought I could ever do.  Many times I am inspired to try harder when I see my peers accomplishing a project of their own – it really enhances the energy at the climbing area.  Furthermore,  I enjoy the strong relationships that climbing has brought me; I would not be the same person I am now had it not been for the role models that I had growing up in the climbing community.  I believe that climbing has shaped me to become an open minded, patient, and friendly person that enjoys every interaction with others.

My proudest climbing related moment was……

Competing on the US National Team in Montreal at the 2008 IFSC Continental Championships.  I had a great performance on all three days of the competition which ended up placing me in 7^th in the 18-19yr category.  My climbing was very consistent from day to day – I deciphered all the cruxes and pulled moves that I could have never have seen myself pulling before.  My family and coach were there to help support me at this competition which made the experience that much sweeter.

The Highlights of my involvement with climbing include:

Competitive Accomplishments:

• Captain, Bolingbrook Climbing Team, 4years.
• Vertical Endeavors Premier Climbing Team- 1years.
• Hidden Peak Climbing Team 5yrs.
• Compete in USA Climbing Competition and Other Professional Series 9 years:
  • 2005 Climbing Nationals in Boston, MA ranked 20^th
  • 2006 Climbing Nationals in Portland, OR ranked 17^th
  • 2006 Bouldering Nationals in Boulder, CO ranked 13^th
  • 2007 Climbing Nationals in Ann Arbor, MI ranked 10^th
  • 2008 Bouldering National in Boulder, CO ranked 10th
  • 2008 Climbing Nationals in San Jose, CA ranked 14^th
  • December 2008 Continental Climbing Championships in Montreal, Quebec, Canada ranked 7^th
  • February 2009 Adult Professional Bouldering Nationals in Boulder, CO ranked 32^nd
  • July 2009 Mammut Professional Bouldering Championships Salt Lake City, UT ranked 22^nd
  • January 2010 Climbing Nationals, Salt Lake, UT ranked 13^th
  • February 2010 Bouldering Nationals, Washington D.C. ranked 20th
  • 2010 Unified Boulder Championships Earth Treks, Baltimore MD ranked 32^nd
  • 2010 Unified Boulder Championships Summer Outdoor Retailer (Trade Show),  Salt Lake City, UT ranked 39^th

Outdoor Accomplishments(Recent):

• Fall 2009
  • Flower Power 13b RRG
  • The Madness 13c RRG
  • The Force 13a  RRG
  • Bohica 13b  RRG
  • Winter 2010
    • Biggie Shorty V10 LRC
  • Spring 2010
    • Kaleidoscope 13c RRG
    • Darth Mal 13b/c RRG
    • Elephant Man 13b RRG
    • Calm Like a Bomb 13a RRG
    • Easy Rider 13a  RRG
  • Summer 2010
    • Unknown 13a  The Swamp, Toronto CA
    • Unknown 13a   The Swamp, Toronto CA
    • Unknown 13c   The Swamp, Toronto CA
  • Fall 2010
    • Dirty Smelly Hippie 13b RRG

 

I am excited to be part of the AAO Ambassador/Athlete program because……

This opportunity will allow me to further my involvement in the climbing community.  I will grow more aware of the technical pieces of clothing and equipment that I will be representing.  I feel that I am in contact with many people in Chicago as well as across the country, which puts me in perfect position to spread the news about AAO.  In addition, I will get to sport some cool new gear.

 

Some accreditations that I have are……

• USA Climbing Coach
• Ellis and Associates Lifeguard Certification (First Aid, CPR, and AED)

Some of the organizations that I belong to are……

• USA Climbing
• Access Fund
• Chicago Ascension Collation
• Unified Bouldering Championships

Something most people don’t know about me-(that I’m O.K. with people knowing)-is…..

I started climbing in trees before ever touching rock.

 

My favorite food is……

Bison

My biggest addiction is…….

 

Training

 

This entry was posted on Tuesday, March 29th, 2011 at 12:59 pm and is filed under Ambassador Athletes. Categories: Ambassador Athletes. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.

http://soshin-to-satori.blogspot.com/

 

This entry was posted on Tuesday, March 22nd, 2011 at 12:04 pm and is filed under Ambassador Athletes. Categories: Ambassador Athletes. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0 feed. Responses are currently closed, but you can trackback from your own site.