Category Archives: outdoor sports

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Todd the Dairy Farmer

You know, you meet some real characters along the way when you have skied as long as I have. My friends from skiing are special, and I always look forward to reconnecting with them when the new season arrives. Some of them I see during the summer from time to time, and I always give them my tired old greeting…..” hey I didn’t recognize you with your clothes off.” But we laugh and catch up and can’t wait to see each other during the upcoming ski season.

I have also made some friends over the years by introduction from other friends. Like my friend from Vermont, ( now Tahoe), who introduced me to his friend from Vermont whom I always called Todd the Dairy Farmer. Todd skied with us at Killington from time to time and we also took him to Tuckerman Ravine back in the day. Todd was a big guy and kind of dressed like he was still working the farm in Vermont. Flannel shirts, baggy ski pants, and changed from cow patty stained work boots into ski boots. He didn’t say much, probably because I dominated the conversation like I usually did. But he was quiet and unassuming. But man did he ski fast. I learned in a hurry not to get in Todd’s way.

Tuckerman back in the day with Eric.

Now when you paired up my friend Eric, ( from Vermont and now Tahoe) with Todd, it became an unsaid race between the two and I always followed behind because you didn’t want to get caught in that fray. All of us in those days had 207 GS skis and never wasted any time flying down Cascade and Superstar at Killington, and all points skiers left and right. Eric, as I had always known, was very competitive. He still is. Todd always took up the challenge. The best part about Todd, aside from his competitiveness with Eric, and his lightning fast turns, is that he had already put in a full day on his dairy farm before he had met up with us. He told us his day usually started at the wee hours milking the cows, feeding them, cleaning the barn, with most of the work done before the sun rose. So, when Eric and I thought we were the tough guys being there at the crack of dawn drinking coffee before the lifts started, Todd had put in a full day. He was now ready to rocket some turns before he had to return to the farm. He didn’t say much, like a lot of Vermonters, but when he clicked into his bindings, it was game on.

We usually got a lot of runs in before most of the crowd made their way to the old K chair, and it is no wonder. I was always leary of someone coming out of a side trail and meandering out into our way. The closing speed would have been devastating to the approaching skier, and I always tried to be careful. But those two would never look and run after run, it was a race to see who could get to the chair first. Again, nothing was said. Even on the chair, it was small talk about the farm, life in Bethel, and in general conversations that had to be drawn out of Todd. I had no problem telling them my tales, but these Vermonters were pretty close to the vest. Then it was game on again as we rocketed off the chair lift.

Skis are always first in line with Eric- even to this day.

We took Todd one time to Tuckerman Ravine and he had no problem with the camping, or the climbing to ski. I was not certain whether he had been there before or not, but Eric and I gave him our tips and perspective. But as soon as we climbed to the top and were ready to click into our bindings for our run, Todd was off and Eric chased him all the way down to Lunch Rocks where we stopped and got ready to climb again, and again. We thought maybe Todd would tire out with all the climbing, but we underestimated him not only for his fitness, but his toughness and skill, skiing lap after lap on very challenging terrain. Todd didn’t stay as long as we did during the week, because he had to make it back to his beloved farm. But he made his mark at Tuckerman, and with us, who totally respected the big guy.

It has been years since we have skied with Todd, and I asked Eric this past season if he keeps in touch with him. He said that he had not, but wanted to find out how he was doing. We talked about him on the chair at Diamond Peak, and rehashed the old stories of Todd. He was, and still is, kind of legendary in my mind. It is another example of people that you meet during your life in skiing. Sometimes the stories are embellished. But I have to say, with Todd, my memories of him are pretty accurate. I am hoping he is still skiing and still has his farm. Native Vermonters tend not to ski so much and leave a lot of it to the tourists. But Todd was an example of a native who loved his skiing and always put it out there in a big way with us.

I think of a lot of the people who I have met skiing. Interesting people who can’t wait for winter, like me. I can’t wait to see them soon. I have my locals, but also friends spread out all over in ski country. It gives me the incentive to go see them. Hoping we have a good season and remember to ask me to tell you some Todd stories on the chair lift. Thanks for reading and think snow.

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” Enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise. Give thanks to Him and praise His name.” Psalm 100:4.

Happy Thanksgiving to all of you.

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Battling Mt. Battie

The gnarly ascent of Mt. Battie. Camden, Maine.

So, Jan and I just returned from a wonderful trip to the Maine coast. We stayed in the great little seaside village of Camden, and took in all the sights and checked all the boxes. Upon arrival at the Portland Jetport, we drove directly to McLoon’s Lobster Shack in Thomaston, Maine, and had the obligatory lobster roll. It was fabulous as I had not had a lobster roll in 40 years. My last one was in Bethel, Vermont at a roadside restaurant named Tozier’s. But that was a long time to go without tasting another lobster roll. This one did not disappoint.

Look at that claw!!!

We also hit the Bar Harbor Lobster Pound later in the week, but we have to give the nod to McLoon’s for the sandwich and the view of the harbor from the Adirondack Chairs.

Some of the other checked boxes were a sail boat ride on the Schooner Surprise. Built in 1918, it was a beauty of a restored vessel and the day was superb on the Penobscot Bay. Our Captain Laird was so excited that a schooner built over 100 years ago was able to do 9.1 knots on the return trip. We did a lot of walking in the village of Camden and also made an excursion to Rockland, Maine and took in the Farnsworth Art Museum which featured many of the works of the Wyeth family. NC, Andrew, and Jamie and all of their relations. Amazing that the whole family, including cousins, were all artists and featured in the museum.

Andrew Wyeth painting of Chadds Ford, Pa. His birthplace.
Coastal oil painting by NC Wyeth.
Janet on the Schooner ” Surprise”
The view of lighthouses from Penobscot Bay aboard the Schooner Surprise.
Captain Laird

We also drove almost two hours to see Acadia National Park and drove the route around the park to see the sights. Unfortunately, the park was jammed with cars and people and some of the sights we were unable to see even if we did have a reservation. Seems to be the norm now with National Parks. You at least have to have a reservation and parking is a challenge. But we were able to take in what we could and headed back to Camden.

Checking the boxes on restaurants, lobster, and seaside views, we were always on the move as is our custom. But the physical activities of the days were all about hiking and the place to go is the Camden HIlls State Park just north of town. Jan and I like to hike and with the leaves changing rapidly in Maine, the anticipated views of the coastal mountains and the bay were on our mind. We were told that the trails leading to Mt. Battie were the ones to take for the views from the top, and we began our first hike anticipating a nice long jaunt. What we didn’t know, and no one told us, was that the ” moderate to strenuous hike” as outlined in the website, was a lot to bite off and chew. I kind of chuckled when we started to ascend rough granite sections of the trail and eventually had to climb on all fours to proceed on the almost vertical sections. Coming back down on our butts and all fours in certain sections, was also interesting as the method of descent. For a mountain with only about a 1000 vertical from sea level, it is a brute if you take the more challenging trails. Janet was a trooper, as I am somewhat familiar with hiking in the New England mountains. I always knew that steep granite sections were the norm, but this little coastal mountain which is dwarfed by the Whites of New Hampshire and the Greens of Vermont and the Adirondacks, was still a challenge for anyone attempting to see the views from the top.

Checking the trail maps

I also got a kick out of the locals, many with gray hairs and years in their hiking boots, smiling and making their way. I have always marveled at how some people attempt bicycle centuries and running marathons and don’t really look the part. “How in the world are they ever going to make it?”, I always said. New Englanders are unphased, and their grizzle is readily apparent on the hikes up Mt. Battie.

The unassuming Mt. Battie from Penobscot Bay. Tougher than it looks.

Jan and I took another trail on another day which was still a rugged climb on tombstone granite rocks. The park ranger who gave us a senior discount to enter, was very vague when we asked for recommendations for alternate hikes. In typical Maine fashion, he was low key and left the decision basically to us. We surged onward and Jan was once again a trooper as we made our way up and then descended, sometimes on our butts over sheer granite sheets, grabbing whatever we could with our hands so as not to slide totally off the trail. You know, you can drive to the top of Mt. Battie? But why do that when you can get some exercise and scare yourself on some vertical rock formations? Those New Englanders are tough ,and we were impressed with our fellow senior citizens who took it all in stride. Understatement is always the mood of people from that end of the country, and I have always liked the “can do”,” no problem” of hikers and skiers from the northeast.

As a tribute to Mt. Battie, we bought some Maine State Parks trucker hats from the ranger at the station and after a rather non-eventful conversation, we made it back to our bed and breakfast in Camden- The Hideaway Inn http://www.hideawayinnmaine.com Highly recommended with wonderful hosts- Rick and Charles.

The Hideaway Inn- wonderful place to stay in Camden

On the last day, we proudly wore out hats and pounded down some pancakes for breakfast with plump, Maine blueberries and Maine maple syrup. Another checked box on our exit from the Pine Tree State.

Penobscot Bay from Mt.Battie.

Reflecting back on our trip this week, Jan and I both say we want to go back to Camden. We loved the seaside atmosphere, the sailboats in the harbor, the hiking, and the food. We have both skied in Maine, and it was a nice alternative to see the coast in the fall. I would highly recommend it especially this time of year. And if you want to battle Battie, go for it. The challenge and the views are really well worth the effort. Thanks for reading and ……………………..think snow!

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“Here is the sea, great and wide, which teems with creatures innumerable, living things both small and great.” Psalm 104:25

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Ride to Ride Another Day- Monday Lick Edition

Dave” Every Day” Gault”
Our navigator and logistics specialist- Chris Csuy.

There are no “Gimmes” in West Virginia. I have a lot of experience racing and riding mountain bikes in West Virginia ,and it is never easy. We have been pummeled in wind and rain, and bounced along on tight, off camber trails with high consequence off the edges. Rock strewn passages with roots and downed trees, all make West Virginia riding tough and especially so for me now as the elder statesman of our group this year. For me, it is ride to ride another day and stay upright. Not always the case for me as I am perfecting the art of the left sided crashes. It is pretty amazing that a bunch of guys in their 60s can pound along on these trails, with Bob K, Csuy, Everday Dave, Paul B, John C and Randy leading the way for us and continuing on when the rest of us mortals had to take a break. I have broken into the seventh decade and am happy that I can at least still ride some of these trails. Shark led the two mortals- Pete and me, and all together we had some amazing riding this past weekend on the newly created Monday Lick Trails in Marlinton, West Virginia.

Video by John Casuccio.

When we go to the Marlinton area, we stay at the Pre Civil War Cabins at the Jerico. Really nice lodging and wonderful people to work with down there. Ask for Lindie. All of us stayed together in the largest cabin (The Loring) which was great for reliving the days activities around the large wooden dining room table or outside by the campfire on the banks of the Greenbrier River.

Now, if you are thinking of trying the new Monday Lick Trails, understand that it is a long ride up a fire road to make several challenging downhill trail runs. The way to do it is to shuttle, although we all climbed the long road once. And it was lonnnnnnnnnng!!! But putting together some vehicles to shuttle to the top is the way to go and you need a guy like Chris Csuy to be the logistics manager. It was great to have him at the helm.

Shuttle Vehicle

Another thing about Monday Lick is it is not for the faint of heart. Even though you shuttle to the top in the optimum plan, the trails which run downhill do have some climbs and are challenging. There are typical West Virginia rock sections and rooty sections. The tight, off camber condition is kind of unnerving if you have acrophobic sensitivities like me. The drop offs to the side of the trails are sometimes steep and long and a fall would not be recommended. However, if you look ahead and concentrate, you can enjoy the challenge and take in what you came for in West Virginia.

Pete Hilton keeping me on the path.

Some of the things that I have always liked about West Virginia are the scenery and the quiet, peaceful feeling of the mountains. When Pete and I drove down this year, the leaves were almost peak at the top of Snowshoe Mountain. My first real feel of fall for 2025, and I was a happy man. I love the fall and driving and riding in West Virginia is a treat this time of year.

John Casuccio decked out in his western finest for the concert at the Opera House.
Bluegrass by the Hackensaw Boys.

Finally, I always like to end the trip with a concert at the Pocahontas County Opera House in Marlinton, or the Purple Fiddle in Thomas. Last time we took in Vanessa Collier and her blues repertoire. This time we took in bluegrass performed by the Hackensaw Boys, and it was great. It kind of wraps up the experience of West Virginia. Like I said, I have had a lot of great times in the mountain state. From the 24 Hours of Canaan and Wild 100 races, to the NORBAs at Snowshoe, to the different mountain bike festivals put on by Elk River Touring Center, riding and experiencing West Virginia is a wonderful way to spend a long weekend. Sure, it is challenging, and we all end up with bumps and bruises, but the camaraderie, and the experience of riding in the mountains is really special. The mountain bike crew is always fun to be with and taking the show to West Virginia is always a trip that I look forward to anytime we can do it. Marlinton and Monday Lick are becoming more and more popular and quickly becoming one of the classic venues of West Virginia. Go experience it and have a blast. Thanks for reading.

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” As iron sharpens iron, so one person sharpens another.” Proverbs 21:17

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A New Experience- Long Overdue

The Ibis Carbon DV-9

So we walked into Highline Bikes in Allison Park, Pa and met up with the proprietor – Tom Florcik. Now it was the first time Janet met Tom as he was diligently setting up her new mountain bike. Tom is meticulous in his set ups and also very patient showing Janet the features of the new bike. Dropper Post? She never heard of such a thing. The new Terry gel seat- very important to her. And in general shifting, braking, and overall set up. He would not let her leave until she was comfortable riding around the parking lot using her new dropper to get on and off the bike. If you are in the market- go see Tom.

We then left the shop with our bikes on the new 1 Up Rack that I bought. My last one was 30 years old and had seen better days. We both are now in the 21st century- although I must sheepishly admit that I always keep up with bikes and ski equipment where my wife has been a little behind. Like 30 years behind. Shame on me. But I didn’t know she wanted to ride more. As we test drove the new Ibis, she loved it and said how light it was, how easy to shift, and in general a joy to ride. She said,” You know, if I had known how nice this carbon bike is to ride, I would have ridden more over the last number of years. But that old clunker you made me ride was not enjoyable at all. This bike makes all the difference in the world.” Oh well, a new experience for Janet and long, long overdue.

A happy girl- long overdue

The cool thing about new equipment is the anticipation. You think about it. You sleep on it. You purchase it. You see it and get it and then you use it with a huge smile on your face. Janet got new ski boots a couple of years ago and that same beautiful smile was out front and center. Jim Jacobs, from Peak Ski and Board, took the time, like Tom, and fitted her very well. She loves the new boots, compared to the old ones she was skiing. Like I said, I sometimes get behind in her equipment, but never on mine. Selfish SOB. But I am changing.

Fugheddabaddit

Now as an aside to the great new experience of carbon for Janet was the protection factor. People kind of chuckle at me when I pull out my Kryptonite heavy duty chain and lock called the Fugheddabaddit. More completely it is called the Kryptonite Fugheddabaddit New York edition. Supposedly tested in New York City, it has been shown to be pretty much thieve proof. The chain is so heavy and burly and the lock is bombproof. I like to be comfortable knowing that when I am not in my Jeep, someone might take a look and say to themselves “fugheddabaddit.” They can move on to another victim. I guess anyone can steal anything anytime, but this chain lock makes it pretty difficult and hairbag thieves tend to move on to an easier target. Janet laughs when I apply the chain and she and I both say………..” fuggheddabaddit.”

So, we are looking forward to a fall together of exploring the multitude of Rails to Trails around Western Pa. and the colors of the leaves should be popping pretty soon. Jan is not an in the woods trail person except for hikes. She leaves the rocks and roots to me, but when we are together, the Rail to Trails systems are really nice and will be even more comfortable for her on her new ride. Carbon 29er from Ibis and Highline Bikes. Pretty sweet. And long overdue. Enjoy your fall season and thanks for reading.

Coming soon!!

” Be of good courage, and He shall strengthen your heart.” Psalm 31:24

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Cyclo X 2025

Team Debo plans a great ride.

Every year- Aaron Shafer – seen above at right- plans a great ride to and through each of the Pittsburgh City Parks. People ride it with different types of bicycles. I always say it is a mountain bike ride and although there are lots of road miles, when you get to the parks- we ride the single track and double track. In my mind, you need a mountain bike but there are some who ride it with narrower knobby tires and some with cross bikes. But whatever you choose, the ride takes you through some interesting places.

It all starts and ends at the Grist House in Millvale.

Starting at 8 AM- it was a spirited start with the A and B group riding out together. The pace was quick as people were anxious to get started and I admired the people who were on cross bikes or narrower tire bikes as we rode the rocky sides of railroad tracks for several miles.

Greg and Shannon Nass- rode narrower tires and handled the terrain like pros.

Typically the A group are the younger riders and very skilled. They ride close to 80 miles and almost 8 thousand vertical feet of climbing. The B group rides between 40 – 50 depending on the mood, and usually around 4 thousand vertical feet. People don’t realize how hilly Pittsburgh is, but for the A and B group- climbing Mt Washington is no joke. Whether you take the tight switchback trails to the top or ride one of the steep roads to the top, you are happy when you get to lunch at the new Shiloh Plate and Pour.

Everybody is happy with some lunch up at the Shiloh Plate and Pour.

After pounding the gravel besides the railroad tracks, riding some very nasty off camber single track in Highland Park, and riding in Frick Park with its technical trails, the climb up Mt Washington is a real test.

Shark- Coach Lou and yours truly taking a breather before the big climb to lunch

We had some carnage this year with the Shark- seen above on the left- getting rear ended by a car, bending his rim and getting his share of road rash. But, in typical mountain bike fashion, he toughed it out and rode back to the Grist House to await the group later in the day.

The Dirt Church banner was flying at the event
The usual cast of characters show up.

After lunch, Aaron and the tough guys took off and we didn’t see them the rest of the day. We were just interested in getting down off the Mount, getting through town, over to the Point, and back on to the Northshore Trail. We checked off Highland Park, Frick Park, Point State Park, Shenley Park, and decided to avoid the Evergreen Trails on Mt. Washington and Riverview. The interesting thing about city park trails is depending on what park you ride, the conditions of the trails vary. From tight singletrack, not well maintained with glass and debris, to the more conditioned Frick Park trails. The tight , off camber trail through Highland Park also took down another rider- me!! I overshot a left hand turn on some slimy rocks and careened to my left into a ravine and had to be helped up by Fred Fisher and Tom Tiernan. I was still clipped in and sat there for a little bit but all was well- save for some stoved fingers. The city park trails are no joke either and I am always glad I have my mountain bike.

The B group at Carnegie Mellon University on the way to Schenley Park.

After a group refresh at the Grist House, we packed it up and headed home. Another Cyclo X in the books but the A group was still out there. How they ride that many miles and vertical on mountain and cross bikes just proves one thing- youth is wasted on the young. I was also proud to think that I was again the oldest rider of the day, and with 71 staring me in the face in November, I wonder how many more grueling climbs up Mt. Washington are left in this body. But then again, like I always say- keep going. Keep riding and keep the fun times alive. Heck- my Garmin says I am 58 so I will go with that. LOL!! But it is good to test yourself, no matter how old, and the stress of a good mountain bike ride is not only good for the body, but good for the soul as well. It keeps me connected and with continued blessings, I can participate in Cyclo X 2026. Thanks Aaron, thanks to all the A riders who inspire, and thanks to our B group who brought our B game to an A ride. Good on ya. Thanks for reading.

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” I can do all this through him who gives me strength” Romans- 4:13

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New Boards

So, I know it is only August, but I pulled the trigger on another new pair of skis for the upcoming season. After looking at some reviews on- line, also from the Stockli rep, and consultation with my friend in Tahoe, I decided on another pair of Stockli Stormrider 88s. I have a quiver of Stockli skis but the 88 under foot is always my go to ski and I was happy to get another pair.

It is interesting that at this time of year, I start to get itchy for the new season. Buying a new pair of skis kind of jump starts you a little bit. I got our passes early, committed to ski trips, and in short- I am ready when the first flakes start to fall. However………………………..screeeech!!!!!! We still have the wonderful season of fall ahead.

Colors in the Laurel Highlands.

My one friend JR always looks at his watch and sees how long it will take for me to mention skiing on a mountain bike ride. For a guy who lives in Pittsburgh, skis locally, and gets two western trips a year, I get a fair amount of skiing. Not as many days as my friends who live out west, or in New England, but for a local guy- not bad. I always think Janet and I should be living in the mountains. She likes the beach better and alas there is the rub. But we both like Pittsburgh, our friends are here, and we are resolved to ski locally and travel. But that does not temper my enthusiasm for the sport- even in the summer. But again………………….screeeeeeech!!! The nicest time of the year around here is coming soon. But for now, the dog days of summer are to be enjoyed.

You never know what you will see in the fall on a mountain bike ride.

One of the good things about the late days of summer riding is that you are in pretty good shape for the shape that you are in. At 70, I am grateful for my health and when we are barreling down the trails on our bikes, I am usually one of the oldest guys. My Garmin Connect says I am 58, but I know better. The chronological advancement is not lost on me, but I try to stay with it. I want to be doing this for as long as possible and when discussing skis with my friend Eric in Tahoe, we both said we need to stay active. We both thank God for good health to enable us to ride and ski for many more years. It’s not like I am riding like I was when I was younger, but I can still ride and ski enjoyably. Eric and I keep each other honest as we both have lost friends. Other friends are slowing down but we try to keep rolling on the rubber wheels and on the slopes. We are starting to feel like the last of the Mohicans, but there are good days ahead………….if we keep at it. Updating equipment like skis and mountain bikes, help with that.

I am even ready for the ski tuning season with new vices from Swix, new files and diamond stones, and new bevels to accurately tune the edges. My friend Eric gave me a tutorial last spring when we were skiing together on tuning in the 21st century. I was still doing it the old way. But the new way with the bevels and getting the skis stone ground to a specific bevel is next level. I am totally prepared.

I mirrored Eric’s set up here in Tahoe.
Will be using bevels this year for the side edges
When it gets tough- use the Beast.
Our friend Freddy from Tahoe. He is in his 80s and still skis 4-5 days a week.

So, not to rush the season or anything, I am looking forward to fall riding. A bunch of us will be going in September to ride the new Monday Lick trail system in West Virginia and staying at the wonderful Jerico Pre-Civil War cabins there. Jan and I also will be heading to Maine for a fall coastal trip. But I will be looking for the FedEx driver every day to see if the new boards are being delivered. Hey- it’s fun getting excited about things. Thanks for reading.

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“He who hurries his footsteps errs” Proverbs 19:2

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A Third Place

I was reading an interesting article this week about “A Third Place” in the latest issue of Outside Magazine. The Third Place is described as a place where people can meet and socialize with strangers, acquaintances, and friends. This would be outside the home ( first place), and the workplace ( second place). In our world, the “place” sometimes varies but the important thing is to meet and be held accountable for meeting. Take mountain biking for instance. We meet at different ” third places”, but the social interaction is there on the ride and also the post ride with libations and snacks in the parking lot. This was particularly important post-pandemic when we were all basically shut in and longing for a third place to meet and socialize. In our case, in an athletic endeavor.

In the winter, our third place oftentimes is the ski area. We have our standard places but also we make it a point to make a ” third place” not only the local area, but a vacation spot where we can ski together and socialize on the chair lift and also in an apre’s ski venue.

The local” third place.”

So what is the real importance of finding a place to exercise and gather socially outside the home or workplace? It is important to have an outlet to be with friends in an environment where we share an activity. The “place” is not as important as what we do in that place. Group exercise meetings fulfill the need to blow off some steam from the workplace and to get out of the house on a nice day or not so nice day depending on your level of intensity. Gloria Liu, in her article in Outside, says that” Third Places are posited as a solution for finding and building community during a time when Americans are increasingly alone. ” Coffee shops, bars, and other meeting places are not necessarily conducive to creating a community like a meeting place, where we are all held accountable to a mutual love of an athletic endeavor. Endorphins are released, people get excited, and make plans to meet again for a ride or a ski day. Thus the “third place” is actually a metaphor for a mutually enjoyed activity that fosters friendships and a community dedicated to health and fitness.

The “Third Place” has actually been quite important to me in that most of my good friends and social interactions have been found there. To me, it is important to have friends who hold you accountable no matter the circumstances. Weather, time constraints, etc. can all derail meetings, but when things are really clicking, you meet at that third place regularly and it becomes an important part of your lifestyle. It is not just something you do, it literally is who you are. Gloria Liu also says that the third place is one that you make, not just one you find. You become more involved. As you become a more senior member of a group, you volunteer to bring along the new people, introduce them to your other friends, and let them make new friends and be held accountable. This type of social interaction is not found necessarily in the workplace, or for many at home who perhaps are single or alone. But it is an important step in developing relationships that last a lifetime.

So, make it a point to make that weekly ride, meet friends who will ride with you daily. Perhaps a hiking or running group? There are many of them around if you search the internet. Find that third place for social interaction and become an integral, teaching part of that group. They can learn a lot from you, and you can learn a lot from them. And as I said in my last post, age really does not matter if your shared love is a sport that you can do for a lifetime. For me, riding, hiking, and skiing are those sports and I have found my “third places” for all of them. Thanks for reading.

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Adventurefest 2025 Surviving the Storm

The prayerful starts.

I always post on Adventurefest every year because it is such a great gathering of Christian, outdoor oriented men. The Boyer’s Pond Campground serves as the venue, and Greg Nass and his team hit a home run every year with activities like mountain biking, hiking, fishing, Harley rides, and even a welding tutorial. But more importantly, some thought provoking messages by his talented roster of Assembly of God pastors. There is nothing like physical activities in the beautiful Laurel Highlands coupled with spiritual activities that complete the whole experience of being in God’s wonderful natural environment.

Friday- Upon arrival at Laurel Mountain in the afternoon, our group of mountain bikers assembled in the parking lot near the ski area to take on the challenging trails as a start to the weekend.

Shark’s prayerful start to the Laurel Mountain ride.
Some of the local residents of Wolf Rocks welcoming us to Laurel Mountain. Mom and newborn.

We dodged the rain, which came at the end of the ride, changed clothes and headed for a wonderful meal at The Fat Squirrel in Jennerstown. Heading to Boyer’s Pond in a rainstorm, we set up our tents and headed to the 3 Cs Church on the campground. We heard Pastor Michael Abreau tell us how a lot of us are like a ’64 Impala waiting to be restored. God is the master mechanic, and the potential renovation is available for all of us if we let Him into our lives. Great message to end the day and head back to the tents. Rained all night but we managed to stay dry with functioning rain flies on the tents.

Saturday morning- Awoke to coffee, served by Shark, and oatmeal served by yours truly, with Roger Evans from West Virginia providing an egg casserole. Good thing we had John Casuccio’s awning for his camper to get out of the torrential rain to eat. We headed to the Quemahoning Reservoir to take on the challenging trail system in deep mud and slime. We were caked, along with our bikes after the ride, but managed to finish in sunny conditions after starting out in in the pouring rain.

Living Evidence Ministries let the music worship in the 3 Cs Church after all the activities ended.

After a quick lunch and shower, we all headed to the 3 Cs Church again to hear a panel discussion with Pastors Jonathan Whyns, Paul Boseviert, Pete Gacialone, and Todd Pugh. They answered tough questions about faith and spirituality. Time well spent with 4 guys who know the answers or are at least willing to comment humbly on the subjects presented. The session ended with Pastor Jimmy Rivera from City Limits Assembly of God in Philadelphia giving us an exhortation on seeking the Lord and allowing him to search your soul. Jimmy spoke about the unlimited neediness of the soul matching the unlimited grace of God. God the Creator breathed a soul into all of us ,and will come looking for that soul someday. Really convicting, followed by a passionate prayer from Jimmy for all of those guys willing to come forward in humility. Jimmy and Mark “Shark” Sauers prayed individually for all the guys. Shark was a great MC for the event and we all said- he found his calling for sure.

Normal Joe’s worshipping their God.
The Shark with his kilt- doing what great MCs do. Bringing it to the group.

After another great meal at the Fat Squirrel, ( courtesy of Bill Belch), we headed back to the campground and the walk to the Cross. Friday and Saturday nights, Greg and his team set up time for guys to come forward at a wooden cross and give their testimonies. Then after their testimony, they hammer a nail into the cross signifying that they are giving it up to the Lord. Amazing stories of drug dealing, addiction, potential suicide, lost families and spouses, and how someone who inserted themselves into their lives saved them from ruin. Those evangelistic souls preached the saving message of Christianity to people who really needed it, and the fruits of their labor stood at the cross and pounded those nails.

Greg Nass speaking at the Cross

The cool thing about Adventurefest and the organization -Adventuremen.org, is the evidence of humility and grace. In this troubled world, people need prayer and that is why most guys come to the event. Sure, they want to experience the camping, the fellowship, the fun events, the fires, the breakfasts, and on and on. But they are all normal Joe’s trying to get along in life. Nothing condescending about them. They don’t have an “above it all” attitude. These guys want to hear a good message that means something in their lives. They want to hear about forgiveness and the grace available for believers. Greg and his team provide a wonderful experience in the wilds of the Laurel Highlands- rain or not. Who cares?

On a final note, we lost our buddy Bob Anderson last year who attended Adventurefest for the first time. He loved it, had a great time, and after wanting to get more involved, tragically passed away two weeks later on the trails that he loved. We always say Bob went from Adventurefest to Heaven. What a journey! Greg fashioned a screw with Bob’s initials, and I screwed that into the cross on Saturday night. What a nice tribute to a great guy that we all so deeply miss. But we surely know where he is, as we knew his path in life.

Bob Anderson- second from left. Adventurefest 2024

About to tackle the mud at the Q

So, not to get too preachy here, but if you have an urge or curiosity, come to Adventurefest next year. Always the weekend before Father’s Day. Great times in the woods with a bunch of guys who will ride Harleys with you, throw axes with you, fish with you, hike with you, mountain bike with you and most of all……..inspire you. http://www.adventurefest.org http://www.adventuremen.org Thanks for reading.

” I can do everything through him who gives me strength.” – Phillipians 4:13

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Memories of Tuckerman Ravine

So, last week, several of my younger ski pals made the trek from Western Pa. up to Pinkham Notch, New Hampshire to ski the famed Tuckerman Ravine. One group was a father and son duo, Eric and Jes Sauereisen. Eric and I have been friends for a long time, and it was his first trip to Tuckerman. He and I have talked about it for years but he finally got to ski it with his son. Great experience that they will never forget.

Jes and Eric. Father and son taking on Tuckerman Ravine. Both excellent skiers.

The second group that was there at the same time and didn’t know it, was the trio of Jason Eshleman( of Chair Report fame), Jason’s long time Vermont friend -Makaio Maher, and John Gerardi. John and Jason are excellent skiers and Makaio is a skilled snowboarder. Skiing/riding Tuckerman for the first time was just what the doctor ordered for them at this time of year.

The Three Amigos preparing to climb
Jason climbing the Left Gully.
Seven Springs legend- John Gerardi
Jason and Makaio. Lifelong friends.

Seeing all their posts on Facebook brought back a flood of memories for me. I skied Tuckerman Ravine 7 times and twice one year- returning on the Fourth of July. I would meet my pal Eric Durfee up there and we would climb up Sunday night, get situated in a shelter at Hermit Lake, and spend the week. As many of you know, there are no lifts and every bit of vertical feet that you ski, you earn by climbing.

The climbing and the skiing are steep.
Eric and I back in the day. Young guns.
Our external packs weighed in at 85 pounds. We were there for the week so we had to take everything.

Lots of memories, like when we skied Dodge’s Drop without climbing it first. We broke our rules that we had to climb everything that we skied. We were caught in the fog up top and skied down Dodge’s. Little did we know that we had to slide down on a frozen waterfall until we reached the snow again to finish the run. We laid the only tracks in Dodge’s that day and people were commenting on that from the Hermit Lake shelter area. We smiled. Eric did it with a cast on his wrist which made the most challenging run ….even more challenging.

Storms roll in and out on Mt. Washington, and one time, I sunk in up to my waist climbing Hillman’s Highway. I was a little scared because if I had sunk all the way through, they might have found me in late spring. Eric pointed out the storm behind me rolling in and said we had to get a move on. He was unphased by my precarious position.

You had to be careful to watch for falling rocks and ice as the days would warm up. One day, a Volkswagen sized rock bounced right over our heads. We ducked to the chorus of some people above us yelling at us to get down on the ground. One year- we watched as a group of people had a rope lowered into the crevasse that always opened up below the headwall. Seemed like some guy accidentally skied into the crevasse and it took a team of rescue workers to get him out. They might have found him in the spring as well.

Fourth of July runs
Dodges Drop
Doing the Mt. Washington Hillclimb back in the day. Sunny and warm at the base, 46 degrees and fog midway, and 41 and sleeting at the summit. In September.

Tuckerman Ravine( not Tuckerman’s- common mistake) has a lot of history too. Back in 1939, an Austrian tucked the headwall and skied on to the Sherburne Trail to win the famed Inferno race. His run was legendary, and you can read all about it. I had the good fortune one year to meet him and hear him tell the story for the New England Ski Hall of Fame. Lots of famous skiers have made that trek. You can somehow feel that history every time you are there.

But getting back to my friends, you have to hand it to them. Not too many people from around here make the 13 hour drive, climb up the Sherburne Trail to the base of the Ravine and keep climbing to the top to ski. It is a rite of passage for New Englanders ,but for those of us from Western Pa, it is not a regular stop. Lots of driving and work to get there, but oh so worth it. Jason and his gang are definitely going back, and I am sure the Sauereisen’s will be returning as well. These days I am happy to live vicariously through them and hear their tales as I dream about my past exploits there. I am happy with chairlifts these days, and comfier weekday living spaces. LOL! North Conway and Pinkham Notch are special places and I am glad that my friends got to experience the climbing, the history, and the skiing. Cheers to them for sure. Thanks for reading.

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Keep it Rolling!

” Don’t count your years, make your years count.” – Billy Graham

You know it is interesting, when I spend time on my mountain bike I tend to think about a lot of things. Entering the seventh decade tends to do that and I think about the friends that I have lost, and many who have been injured or are recovering from medical issues. Stuff happens when you hit my age, and I am so grateful to have been blessed with good health so far. I make it a habit to visit people when they are in the hospital, and try to be there for the family of those who have lost a loved one. But I also try to do the best that I can by eating right, and exercising. Doing it all of these years I believe has helped me. But you never know. Try to do the best that you can and thank God every day for your health.

Recently, I finished Dr. Peter Attia’s book called ” Outlive- the Science and Art of Longevity.” The interesting takeaway for me was that he says his methods are not to extend life for as long as we can, but rather to maximize the quality of life in the years we have left. He says we have to backcast to where we are now, if we want to see a future of rolling on the ground with our grandkids and being able to get up off the floor. He says whatever decade in life we are, we need to figure out what we would like for our future and make changes if necessary to create that future.

From the chair at Diamond Peak.

But as much as I think about these things, I also know that you have to keep things rolling. It has its rewards like my last day of skiing this year with my good friend Eric. We had some great snow and I hauled out the fat skis (107mm under foot) and made a day of it. We were the first on the chair and last off at 70 years old. The cool thing is that there were a lot of people there that day who were a decade older than us.

This guy Freddie is 88 and skis 4 -5 days a week.

Lots of vertical that day and even though my friend does a lot of skiing and basically is my mentor on the slopes, he smiled at the end of the day. He said that was one of the best days of the season for him and it certainly was mine. We just need our pal Hutch with us next year. Yes, we don’t ski like we did when we were in our 20s, but we keep it rolling by staying in shape and just going for it.

I don’t ride like I used to back in my 20s,30s,and 40s, but I still enjoy it and can head in a slightly different direction now. I used to be the weekend warrior and loved to chase the age group awards as I got older. I loved to get into the next decade to compete and beat up on the older guys. Sometimes successfully but often getting my head handed to me by an older guy. Now, as I head into this decade, the object is not to be competitive with anyone other than myself. I will still try to eat right, exercise, and basically enhance the quality of life that is left. Not necessarily ” counting the years, but making the years count.” Thanks Reverend Billy Graham. Also, the new Pope Leo IV is just entering his seventh decade in September. He needs to make his years count too. My friend Jaime reminded me that we are older than the Pope. We laughed, but it is kind of sobering too. I always thought the Pope was an old guy. LOL!!

Keeping things rolling along, I like to use a little technology on my rides. It is important to be aware of your state of being while exercising. And the new technology of “wearables” are pretty accurate.

I check out the data on my Garmin watch after a ride and just look at some metrics that are beneficial to me. Lots of data on there that is not necessarily relevant, but interesting things about miles ridden, altitude gained, aerobic and anaerobic effort, sleep quality, HRV status, that can tell you how you did and where you are with your fitness. But nobody knows better than you. You know your body and can listen to it. No matter what the data says, you know better than the Garmin. It can give you some signals, but do what makes you feel good. But listen to the “wearable” if it tells you to back off. LOL!!

In any event, as I wade through this new decade, I won’t think about what can happen. I will just be aware of things. Ride to ride another day, and appreciate things like that last ski day of the season. Thanks for reading, take care of your health, and be there for your friends.

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