The Mountaineers
Each week we bring you a personal story from one of our members. For our member profile this week we talked to ....
Hometown: Born in Portland, Oregon; grew up there and in Seabeck, WA. But I’ve lived abroad in Scotland, Germany, Switzerland, and Egypt for 12 years. I also spent 13 years working in the Alaskan arctic, Prudhoe Bay.
Occupation: Retired Petroleum Engineer
Favorite Activities: Sea Kayaking, bicycling, hiking
10 Essentials: Questions
How did you get involved with The Mountaineers?
I was sea kayaking with another club, but I felt the risk management and skills development parts were lacking. The Mountaineers appealed to me with the terrific training and development opportunities. I reached various goals along the way as trip leader, advanced trip leader, and trainer.
What motivates you to get outside with us?
The comfort in knowing that people on trips have been vetted for the trip, so I can have fun and enjoy the setting. I love both taking and helping with branch and club-wide sea kayaking training. The people are awesome! We have a lot of fun on trips as well.
What's your favorite Mountaineers memory?
Kayaking from Washington Park (near Anacortes) to Friday Harbor via the southern end of Lopez Island, going through tidal rapids at Cattle Pass. Whoohoo!
Who/What inspires you?
Several people past and present. My father-in-law was in the mountains all his life, and taught the Jim and Lou Whitaker how to climb. Now, it is some of the top sea kayak coaches in The Mountaineers such as Michael Everett, Alison Reinbold, Brian High, Mike Kennedy among many others too numerous to mention. These people give so much of their time and passion.
What does adventure mean to you?
Going some place I haven't been before, successfully navigating a sea kayak there through currents. Bicycle touring is also a fun adventure.
Lightning Round
Sunrise or sunset? Sunrise.
Smile or game face? Smile.
What's your 11th essential? A good paddle!
Post-adventure meal of choice? A great big salad!
If you could be a rock star at any outdoor activity overnight, what would it be? Super kayak surfer.
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Way to go Charlie; you are an awesome Kayak leader! Barb and Ken
