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: Jacob Wolniewicz
Hometown: Boulder, CO
Member Since: January 2015
Occupation: Software Engineer
Favorite Activities: Climbing, Mountaineering, Backcountry Skiing
10 Essentials: Questions
How did you get involved with The Mountaineers?
I grew up backpacking and scrambling in the Rockies. After moving here I wanted to keep on peakbagging, but many peaks needed skills I didn't have to summit them, so I signed up for Intense Basic.
What motivates you to get outside with us?
I love the community that Mountaineers groups have out on a climb. I also really love the smiles and excitement people have after their first time on an outdoor rock climb. In fact, I enjoyed it so much I became chair for the Seattle Climbing Committee (perhaps the youngest ever at 26?), and lead a yearly multi-pitch trad climbing course.
What's your favorite Mountaineers memory?
I was leading a one day climb of Eldorado and was secretly carrying a twelve pound watermelon in my pack. At the summit I revealed it to the shock of the others. Over laughs and smiles of accomplishment I started to cut it open when out of nowhere Tom Vogl and a few other familiar faces arrived at the summit with a can of Kick Step IPA right before it was released. Friends, as well as watermelon with a sip of beer made the day one of my favorites with the Mountaineers.
Who/What inspires you?
All the volunteers who gave hours of their time to teach me what I know, it makes me eager to give back to the next group.
What does adventure mean to you?
Getting out of my comfort zone, reading a little less beta, and exploring something new.
Lightning Round
What's your 11th Essential? Gummies of any type. I know the exact amount of gummy worms or swedish fish you should be eating to make sure you get 40 grams of carbs an hour while constantly moving.
What's your happy place? A summit after a rock climb, basking in the midday sun.
If you could be a rockstar at any outdoor activity overnight, what would it be? Definitely ice climbing!
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