The Mountaineers
Each week we bring you a personal story from one of our members. For our member profile this week we talked to ....
Name: Chuck Cerveny
Hometown: Libertyville, IL
Member Since: June 2008
Occupation: Former scientist turned science teacher
Favorite Activities: Alpine and backcountry skiing, ski mountaineering, and hiking/scrambling when the snow melts
10 Essentials: Questions
How did you get involved with The Mountaineers?
I was interested in getting into backcountry skiing but had a) no partners and b) no sense. By taking the Foothills Ski Mountaineering and Avalanche courses I addressed each of these. Mostly a) though, I'm still struggling with b).
What motivates you to get outside with us?
I ended up becoming a backcountry ski leader which made it easier to find partners with comparable training. After a couple seasons of this I realized I liked helping new people get out skiing to explore the mountains in the winter, since that's when the best weather occurs. After going on scrambles and hikes I found a good community of people to spend time with.
What's your favorite Mountaineers memory?
The first trip I led up the Interglacier a few years ago. One of the people who got me into bc skiing was my co-lead and the group was all around excellent. Sunny day, great snow, and we were the only ones up at Steamboat Prow. I sent the rest of the team down first and followed getting an awesome solo(ish) run down the glacier.
Who/What inspires you?
The MAC kids!! I've been leading ski trips for them the past couple years and they are amazing in their confidence, attitude, and skills.
What does adventure mean to you?
Being open minded to whatever opportunity comes along. I hadn't planned on becoming a teacher but working with kids in the Mountain Workshops made me decide to try it. Its all an adventure, you just gotta make good decisions.
Lightning Round
What's your happy place? Alpental when the Pass is closed due to snow.
If you could be a rock star at any outdoor activity overnight, what would it be? Running rescue toboggans while ski patrolling.
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