out there monthly august 2012

VOL.8 // NO.12 // AUGUST 2012

THE INLAND NORTHWEST GUIDE TO OUTDOOR RECREATION WWW.OUTTHEREMONTHLY.COM

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NEWS: CHIMNEY ROCk ROCk SLIDE WRECkS ROUTES p.8 / ROADTRIp: MUSEUM AT THE BRIG IN FARRAGUT p.10 / ENDURANCE: TOO MUCH

OF A GOOD THING? p.11 / WHAT’S YOUR GEAR? kRISTINA NORTHCUTT: TRIATHLON p.13 / TRUE TAILS OF TRAIL MAINTENANCE p.22Kay LeCLaire: SpOkANE’S HIGH ALTITUDE HEROINE

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p.6 / From the editor

Blood, Rubber, and Racing In the

Streets

By Jon Snyder

p.8 / out there News

Chimney Rock Rock Fall, New

Centennial Trail Event

p.10 / roadtrip

Ahoy, Idaho: Brig Museum At

Farragut

By V. Gauntlett-Hager

p.11 / health & FitNess

Endurance: Too Much Of A Good

Thing?

By Dr. Bob Lutz

p.12 / Book reviews

Into The Silence and Kayaking Alone

Around The Continent

By Stan Miller & Jon Jonckers

p.13 / what’s Your Gear?

Kristina Northcutt: Triathlon

By Amy Silbernagel McCaffree

p.14 / traiNiNG tips & mY Bike

Outdoor Workouts Anywhere

By Ben Greenfield

p.15 / everYdaY cYclist

Inattentional Blindness

By Hank Greer

p.16 / auGust iNlaNd

Nw outdoor caleNdar &

6 moNth traiNiNG caleNdar

p.18 / kaY leclaire

Spokane’s High Altitude Heroine

By Annie Szotkowski

p.21 / photo oF the moNth

And Roadtrip DJ

By Rachelle Stolcis & Christine Schulz

p.22 / last paGe

True Tales of Trail Maintenance

By Seabury Blair Jr.

In�This�Is�s�ue

On the cOver: Kay LeClair near Camp Muir at Mt. Rainier. // Photo courtesy of Kay LeClaire.

www.OuttheremOnthly.cOm

Out there mOnthly / August 2012

Publisher And editOr-in-chiefJon Snyder

[email protected]

Art directOrKaitlin Snyder

mAnAging editOrAmy Silbernagel McCaffree

heAlth & fitness editOrDr. Bob Lutz

seniOr writersJon Jonckers, Derrick Knowles

cOntributing writers: Seabury Blair Jr., V. Gauntlett-Hager, Ben Greenfield,

Hank Greer, Stan Miller, John Speare, Annie Szotkowski, Rachelle Stolcis

distributiOn cOOrdinAtOrBarbara Snyder

To request issues please call 509 / 534 / 3347

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Out There Monthly is published once a month by Snyderco DBA/Out There Monthly. No part of this publication may be reproduced without

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©Copyright 2012 Snyderco DBA/Out There Monthly. The views expressed in this magazine reflect

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Disclaimer: many of the activities depicted in this magazine carry a significant risk of

personal injury or death. Rock climbing, river rafting, snow sports, kayaking, cycling, canoeing

and backcountry activities are inherently dangerous. The owners and contributors to

Out There Monthly do not recommend that anyone participate in these activities unless they

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From�theEditor: BLood, RuBBeR, And RACing in the stReets

Louise ChadezLois StrattonJames Tieken Patrick DavidsonSarah Griffith Bill Grimes Art Hathaway Ingrid Carlson Lindy Cater Thea Hollingsworth Elisabeth Ellingson Therese Covert Mike Ekins Gayle Ekins Kendra Ellis Ben StuckartAnnie CombelicGeorge Orr

Ian SullivanJohn SpeareJohn WaiteKendra MaurerKitty KlitzkePaul FishPaul LindholdtRachel ColemanRichard RushNancy HandNova DuftPam GallowaySarah Farley April Gleason Charlie Greenwood Steven Hopkins Elise Imhof Breean Beggs

Carrie LipeKristopher ByrumLaura AckermanLinda McHenryLiza MattanaLouisa RivasMarjie HillMarsha LoiaconoMartha NerpelMary LloydMary WeathersMaryBeth CorkeryBarbara Keevan Barb McKay Scott Miller Dave Plemons Kim Plemons Sola Raynor

Mike RogersNancy Roth Eva Silverstone Brad Skubinna Susana Soth Joel Williamson Mindy Breen Robert Butler Larry Cebula Shawn Cox Jane Cunningham Davis Romoff Deena Lucy DePaolo Daniel Eagan Peggy Eklof Todd Eklof Ginger Ewing

Stephen Fortunato Dennis Fredrickson Gail Goeller Kaaren Goeller-Bloom Cynthia Green John Griffith Brian Jennings Sam Mace Sunni Mace Linda Milsow Cleve Pemberthy Marshall Powell Jennifer Rascoff Janet Ray Sonya Rose Blaine Strum Glenn Tanner Connie Tedrow

Barbara Williams Shirley CannonSondra BarringtonSonya RoseStephen FortunatoSteve DaehlinHarry CraseHelen DonierIan SullivanJames Richman

Thanks To All Our New Endorsers!Help Councilman Jon Snyder bring solid city

government experience to OlympiaFacebook: Vote Jon Snyder

Paid for by Snyderco/OTM PO Box 559Spokane WA 99210

Redmond, Boise, Bend, Wallace, Wenatchee, and Walla Walla all have one, why not us? That’s what Spokane Rocket Velo’s Alan Jacob and a bunch of other area road racing enthusiasts have been asking.

What they all have is a downtown criterium. That’s a bicycle road race right smack dab in the middle of the central business district. Imagine dozens of bikes flying by at speeds of 25 mph and higher, making six turns on every loop, pushing to stay upright at maximum speed with minimal tire coverage on uneven pavement. It’s fun to watch and also fun to do.

And now Spokane is getting it’s own race: The

Lilac City Twilight Crit.“Every time I do this I ask myself ‘why?’ But

then I can’t wait to do it again. It’s an hour of adrenalin,” says Alan Jacob.

A crit—short for criterium—on city streets can be intimidating. Blood is likely. With 6 turns in less than a mile and as many as 40 riders, crashes do happen.

“Some people show up just for the carnage,” admits Jacob.

But great racing is more than just carnage and creating this event has been a huge under-taking. It wouldn’t be possible without sponsors such as Larry H. Miller Downtown Dealerships,

Itron, Washington Trust, the Downtown Spokane Partnership, and Visit Spokane—not to mention Spokefest, which will occur the next day.

Want to join the action? If you want to race you can start at Cat 5, the lowest classification, or do the non-competitive Citizens or Kids races. Just sign a waiver, and/or the necessary licenses for Cat 5. You can also volunteer.

The races start in the late afternoon and go through the evening running a loop bordered by Howard, Riverside, Bernard, and Spokane Falls Boulevard. Lights will be set up.

A new downtown crit has been talked about in hushed whispers for years among local bike

nuts. Great to see it finally happening, even if it is a “hair-raiser” according to Jacob. For more infor-mation go to: spokanerocketvelo.com. //

-----------------------------------------------------Jon snYdeR, [email protected]

P.S. Check out the online browser edition of OTM at issuu.com. Just search google “Out There Monthly issuu.com.”


new CentenniAL tRAiL eventRoll Rack ‘n’ Run Coming in september

OutThereNews�

FoR THose THaT alReadY bike and run on the Centennial Trail, Bob Cannon says, “Why not do both?”

The Roll Rack ‘n’ Run event is the first of its kind in the Inland Northwest, and the inaugural bike/run race will be held Sunday, September 2, on the Centennial Trail.

This is NOT a biathlon. Admittedly, this event mirrors the equestrian event known as the Ride-and-Tie, a relatively unfamiliar sport that combines trail running, endurance riding and, most of all, strategy. Normally, the object is to get all three team members (two humans and one horse) across a course by alternating riding and running. In the case of the Roll Rack ‘n’ Run, two person teams alternate running and bike rid-ing in leapfrog fashion over 25-kilometers (15.5 miles). The team finishes the event when both participants and the bike cross the finish line.

Proceeds from Roll Rack ‘n’ Run benefit the Friends of the Centennial Trail. “The Trail is a phenomenal treasure that we all enjoy,” says Cannon. “But it is not part of any single govern-ment entity, so improvements must be funded by other means, and participating in this event helps support one of our region’s most treasured

assets.”Ultimately, the course begins and ends at

Spokane Falls Community College, following the trail west to a turn-around at the McLellan Trailhead (north of Seven Mile Bridge). Although bikes can be dropped/exchanged anywhere along the way, supported bicycle “corrals” will be avail-able at approximately four-mile intervals. Water and energy drinks will be available at those loca-tions as well.

The Roll Rack ‘n’ Run provides a unique opportunity for an uncommon mixture of racers to participate in a unique event. Whether your team consists of best friends, father/daughter, husband/wife or any other partner, this race pro-vides something new for everyone. For logistical purposes, only 300 teams will be allowed to par-ticipate in this inaugural event, and event orga-nizers expect to fill this maximum. //

roll rack ‘n’ run, sept. 2, 7:00 am. spokane falls

community college. for complete details, and to

register, visit www.rollracknrun.com.

WHeTHeR You’Re looking FoR a family-friendly 15-mile ride or a challenging 85-mile route—or a distance in between, including a 30- or 50-mile route—the Great Northwest Fall Bike Tour is the answer. Taking place in the Pend OReille River valley on the morning of Sunday, September 2, the event starts at the Newport City Park (located at Calispel and 1st Street) in Newport, Wash.

All of the tour takes place on paved coun-ty roads, with a few easy hills on the 15- and 30-mile courses, while the longer routes have some sustained climbs.

Sponsored by the Newport/Priest River Rotary to benefit local and international proj-ects, entry fee is $25 per person (add $10 for T-shirt, if desired) or $50 per family (up to four people, includes one deluxe long-sleeved T-shirt). Check-in begins at 7:00 am—85-mile ride begins at 8:00 am, and all others begin at 9:00 am.

Food and water stops are provided along the routes, as well as a meal after completion—avail-able from 11:00 am to 3:00 pm. Because there is no technical bike support along the courses, “each rider is responsible for the mechanical condition of his/her bicycle,” according to the event website (gnwft.homestead.com). Riders are advised to have a spare tube, patch kit and bike pump, and are also required to wear an ANSI or SNELL approved bike helmet. A map of the four different courses is available at the event website.

There are three different ways to register: online at active.com (available through August 30), download and print registration from the event website and mail it in before August 26 (with check payment, late fee applies if received after Aug. 26), or register the day of the ride ($10 late fee applies).

The Great Northwest Fall Bike Tour has been happening annually since 2001, providing an opportunity for beginner and advanced riders to enjoy the scenic countryside of Pend Orielle County. //

the great northwest fall bike tour, sept. 2,

check-in begins at 7:00 am at newport city Park,

www.gnwft.homestead.com.

Date: September 2, 2012 Location: Newport City Park: Calispel at 1st

StreetTime: 8 a.m.Fee: $25 per person and $50 per familyPhone: Nadine at 208.597.5478Website: www.gnwft.homestead.comChoose from a family friendly 15 mile ride to

a challenging 85 mile route in the beautiful Pend OReille River valley. Sponsored by the Newport/Priest River Rotary to benefit local and interna-tional projects.

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ChiMney RoCK FoReveR ChAngedRock Fall Removes Classic Routes by Jon Jonckers

OutThereNews�

no one knoWs exaCTlY when it happened, but right before the Fourth of July holiday, Chimney Rock experienced a massive rockslide on the East Face. On July 5, North Idaho climb-er Joe Lind is quoted in a short comment on the CascadeClimbers.com website forum: “Went to Chimney today. As we arrived at the base I noticed a ton, probably hundreds of tons, of rock on the snowfield that seemed out of place. Looking up at the East Face I was shocked.”

The post from Joe Lind was shared in many online climbing forums. Even Inland Northwest climbing legend Dane Burns reports on the mag-nitude and significance of this rockfall. “The following routes no longer exist! Greystoke, Magnum Force, UNI, White Lightning, Kimmie, Yahoody, Pitch 2 of Cooper Hiser.”

Dan Shaw accompanied Joe the day of the dis-covery. “I didn’t even notice the rock fall until we were directly under the East Face of Chimney Rock. I had been trying to spot the White Lightening crack from far off and it just looked different but didn’t cause me to stop. When I asked Joe about it, he was looking down at all the new debris covering the snow slope and was putting it together,” says Shaw.

To be fair, anyone that owns the 1983 Randall Green guide for North Idaho Rock Climbing knows that Fred Becky once described the Southeast Nose on Chimney Rock as, “being so thin it shakes”. Nevertheless, this sweeping wave of rock exfoliating from an Idaho icon is rather impressive.

Shaw continues, “The left half of the East Face had totally cleaved off Chimney Rock and took

with it some of the most classic lines up that side. We were speechless at the sheer amount of rock fall as we both realized we were witnessing a rare glimpse into geological weathering.”

Joe and Dan did summit Chimney Rock via the West Face. At the summit register, Dan noted that other climbers had visited the top just two days earlier, and they didn’t mention anything about the rockfall.

“Climbers had been there two days before so it was either very recent or they didn’t notice it. It looked like it was pretty fresh though. No snow had melted around the debris in it and there were still fresh scars everywhere. It may yield some great new routes but they look like they will be quite hard. It is certain that several great routes are gone forever though.” //

DEBRIS FIELD. // PHOTO By DAN SHAW. BELOW: ESTIMATED AREA THAT WAS RECENTLy ALTERED DURING THE JULy 2012 ROCKFALL. // GRAPHIC By JON JONCKERS.

September 15, 2012 9 AM ~ TJ Kelly Park

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Newport, WA Register online at www.active.com,

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Pre-registration Deadline: 9/10/2012

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FoR THose WHo enJoY exploring historic sites first-hand, Farragut State Park—located 30 miles north of Coeur d’Alene on the south end of Lake Pend Oreille—offers a unique experi-ence in an unexpected part of our country. Better known for its recreation opportunities, this 4,000-acre park has something special that can only be explored between Memorial Day and Labor Day—the Museum at the Brig.

Named in honor of David Glasgow Farragut—the first U.S. Navy Admiral, whose Civil War battle cry was “Damn the torpedoes, full steam ahead”—this park was once the location of the country’s second largest naval training center. Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Farragut Naval Training Station (FNTS) opened in September 1942—construction began after the WWII attack on Pearl Harbor to create this protected inland base.

Imagine the sailors’ surprise—joining the Navy only to be sent to a state far from an ocean. In Sandpoint writer Marianne Love’s article “Sailors Ahoy!” (www.mariannelove.com/Farragut.html), originally published in Sandpoint Magazine, she details the start of this base as a training ground for new naval recruits for service in the South Seas.

In an unlikely location, but with the deep and long Lake Pend Oreille serving as the ocean (1,158 feet deep in some places and 43 miles long, according to SandpointOnline.com), new sail-ors were brought to boot camp. Trains brought recruits from nearly every state in the union, and then wagons took them the final leg to the base. It was here they began their grueling two months of training—developing skills to build a strong naval force for World War II. Recruits practiced marching, swimming, rowing and other basic training skills as well as some advanced skills such as radio operations and hospital corps.

In addition to a hospital with WAVES volun-teers (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Services), the former base included mess halls, a chapel and movie theatre, according to Love. There was even a separate POW camp—750 German POWs were brought to Idaho, and they provided landscaping and maintenance of the property during their stay. POWs were also engaged to help fight forest fires in the area.

FNTS had a powerful impact on the small sur-rounding community, making “Farragut, Idaho” the state’s largest city at the time with a popula-tion of over 50,000. Sandpoint’s streets were also full of sailors on furlough, according to Love, and

RoadTrips�

Ahoy, idAho! Visit The Brig Museum At Farragut State Park / By V. Gauntlett-Hager

businesses flourished. Nearly all of the Navy’s original buildings are

long gone; however, the Brig still stands. This former detention center for sailors who violated rules is now a museum. Visitors can enter and learn how a small town in the Idaho Panhandle influenced our country’s future.

Inside, memorabilia and photos—including pictures of the uniforms for the Blue Jackets, as the base sailors were known—create a surpris-ing story of the WWII era. Peek into some of the original Brig cells and walk around the large inner courtyard.

The museum’s Pacific Theater shows daily films about the area’s history and geology.

Farragut Naval Training Station operated until 1946, and it was a unique time and place indeed. To commemorate the base, an art-ist was commissioned to create a statue for the Farragut Memorial Plaza. “Mack”—as the “Rite of Passage” artwork is nicknamed—is a massive bust of a sailor looking out from his ship, symbol-izing strength and determination, honoring all those who served. Altogether, 293,381 sailors and 600 WAVES served on the grounds for WWII. (The U.S. Navy still operates a 20-acre Acoustic Research Detachment in Bayview, Idaho, for sub-marine testing.)

To round out a visit to Farragut State Park, stay at one of the three campgrounds, which provide 220 individual campsites, four group camps, and ten camping cabins. Overnight prices start at $12 for a standard campsite and reservations are required, either by phone at 1-888-922-6743 or by reserving online (for $10 service fee). As of mid-July, there were still sites available mid-week and even during weekends in August.

Hike or mountain bike some of the 40 miles of trails or play at any of the three 18-hole disc golf courses—or the 9-hole short course espe-cially for beginners and families with children. (The park’s gift shop sells golf discs if you need some.) The Sunrise and Willow day use areas are great for picnicking. And during the summer, a park Naturalist provides programs including trail hikes, Junior Ranger and Evening Campfire programs. Check out Beaver Bay Beach for swim-ming—“where the water warms enough in the summer,” according to the park’s webpage. //

for more information about farragut state Park,

visit www.parksandrecreation.idaho.gov/parks/

farragut.aspx.

WHen You goFrom I-90 in Coeur d’Alene, take exit 12 and

travel north on Highway 95 approximately 18 miles to Athol. Go east on Highway 54 approxi-mately 4 miles. Park visitor center (located at west entrance) is open from 7:30 am to 6:00 pm. Follow signs to the Museum at the Brig.

there was even a separate Pow camp—750 german Pows were brought to

idaho.VIEW OF LAKE PEND OREILLE AT FARRAGUT STATE PARK. INSET: SCULPTURE AT THE BRIG MUSE-UM ENTRANCE. // PHOTOS COURTESy OF IDAHO DEPARTMENT OF PARKS AND RECREATION.

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THe enduRanCe RaCing WoRld was sad-dened by the untimely and unexpected loss last spring of one of its more colorful members, Micah True, aka Caballo Blanco. His legend came to the public eye in the 2009 best-seller, Born to Run, by Christopher McDougall (www.nytimes.com/2012/05/21/sports/caballo-blan-cos-last-run-the-micah-true-story.html). And locally, we lost a valuable member of our com-munity when Scott Roy unexpectedly passed away after completing the Lilac Century Fun Ride earlier in the day (see OTM June).

Upon hearing of their deaths, I was reminded of something I had heard a while back—endur-ance training may be too much of a good thing. The irony of this wasn’t lost on me; after all, isn’t exercise a cornerstone of health and the preven-tion of heart disease? A search and review of the literature provided some interesting findings.

The current physical activity guidelines for adults call for the accumulation of 150 minutes of moderate activity (or 75 minutes of vigorous activity) per week (www.cdc.gov/physicalactiv-ity/everyone/guidelines/index.html). This level of activity has been shown to provide general health-related benefits for the average adult, to include improving cardiovascular health. Research has shown a dose-response relationship for cardio-vascular disease, with a benefits peaking at about a daily dose of 50-60 minutes of vigorous exercise. The physiological changes conferred by this train-ing, aka “athlete’s heart,” include changes in the volume of the left and right ventricles (LV & RV), increased thickness of the LV wall, and increased size of the left atrium (LA) and the heart overall. ECG changes and increased ventricular ectopy (i.e., extra beats) are also common. This remodel-ing has been viewed positively, as it is associated with improved cardiac efficiency, and detraining has been shown to demonstrate these changes to be reversible over time.

While these anatomical findings occur with regular aerobic training, endurance training (ET), events and even acute intense bouts of exercise lead to somewhat different changes in the heart. Interestingly, these changes have been found to be primarily right-sided (the RV pumps blood to the lungs for oxygenation; the LV sends this oxygen-rich blood to the body). Prolonged daily sessions have been shown to lead to dilation of the RV and the right atrium (RA) that resolves during recovery. Participants in acute events, such as half-marathons, marathons, triathlons (lasting more than 5 hours) and cycling (for more than 8 hours) have likewise shown these effects. And elevated levels of biomarkers of cardiac injury that are typically evaluated when heart attacks are a concern, such as troponin and creatine kinase MB, have been found in individuals who have either completed an event or have engaged in

Healthan�dFitn�es�s�too MuCh oF A good thing?the impact of sustained endurance exercise / By dr. Bob Lutz

vigorous bouts of training. Fortunately, these changes are typically revers-

ible, with both anatomy and biomarkers normal-izing within a week or so. But for unknown reasons in some individuals, this repetitive stretching may lead to chronic structural changes, such as chronic dilation of both right-sided chambers and patchy scarring, that may make the heart more sensitive to abnormal rhythms. Some evidence suggests those most susceptible have been doing ET the longest. For example, long-term sustained ET has been shown to increase the likelihood of atrial fibrillation five-fold. More alarmingly, ventricu-

lar arrhythmias that can lead to sudden cardiac death have also been seen, believed to be second-ary to this scarring of the RV. And while Jim Fixx’s death was attributed to a genetic predisposition to cardioatherosclerosis, a prior history of smoking, and “stress,” at least two studies of long-term mara-thoners have found them to be at higher risk than expected for hardening of the coronary arteries.

What does all this mean to those who’ve embraced endurance training? It’s tough to say at this point. Currently, there is no agreed-upon way to identify those at greatest risk, although there does appear to be a dose-related effect that has not been well defined. Regular exercisers have sig-nificantly lower rates of disability and a mean life expectancy that is seven years greater than those who are physically inactive. Importantly, it’s worth knowing the overall risk of sudden cardiac death is extremely rare and is far outweighed by the overall benefits of regular exercise. And ET, at some point, becomes a lifestyle and an integral part of life.

Personally, what I take from the existing research is that there are more unknowns than knowns, and at least acutely, active rest and recovery is essen-tial. As I’ve discussed previously, listening to your body is important—how necessary is to go out for a training run after completing a marathon anyway? Most, if not all studied participants saw complete normalization of these changes within a week post-event.

If you’re a long-term ETer and find yourself really stressed by this information, talk with your healthcare provider and ask about “coronary artery calcium” (CAC) scoring. This is a measure of heart disease that is usually determined by CT scan and may be suggestive of those at risk, especially for individuals over 50 years of age who have logged the miles and can post an impressive race résu-mé.

But at this point, carpe diem—it’s important to enjoy every moment of this life and live it to its fullest. Happy trails. //

Regular exercisers have significantly lower rates of disability and a mean life expectancy that is seven years greater than those

who are physically inactive.

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Everyone


Book�Reviews�

FeaRless: one Woman, one kaYak, one ConTinenTJoe Glickman, FalconGuides, 2012, 224 pages

HeRCulean goals oFTen require a certain level of egomania, aka self-confidence, in order to achieve them. Consider the greatest egoma-niac you know, multiply them by a factor of ten, and you still couldn’t measure the unwavering confidence and drive of Freya Hoffmeister. In 2009, 46-year-old Freya embarked on a yearlong adventure to paddle alone and unsup-ported around Australia. No sail. No crew. No partners or guides. She left behind her 12-year-old son and her former life as a gymnast, marks-man, skydiver and Miss Germany contestant, to take a chance at a 9,420-mile sea kayak adventure that virtually every expert guaranteed would get her killed. If the trip wasn’t so well documented, Homer could have easily written this story. She braved shark-infested waters around the Great Barrier Reef, paddled through unique jellyfish that not only stung but also caused severe nerve-damage, was forced to camp among saltwater crocodiles on the northern coasts, endured two of the world’s longest impenetrable coastlines, forged a romantic relationship with a charter boat cap-tain, and persevered through weather that killed others. Journalist and expert kayaker Joe Glickman followed Freya’s early training and preparation as well as her 332-day voyage online when it occurred, and then created a genius summary of the event. Yet, rather than worship her or the achievement, he maintains a steady and straight-forward outlook. Glickman is the recipient of the Lowell Thomas Award for travel writing, and he knows how to spin a tale. However, in this unique case, he never has to exaggerate. Quite frankly, there’s very little written about paddling a kayak. In the end, he writes, “Her vanity and pigheadedness paled next to her nearly superhu-man ability to master fear and persevere.” The reader accompanies Freya on the entire humbling voyage, yet the reader also experiences the unequaled geography and unique history of Australia. Besides islands and tides, the coastal landscape dictates so much of the outlying areas, and this adventure provides a truly rare perspec-tive. Even though it’s very difficult to “like” Freya, from cover to cover, it’s impossible to not respect her. // Jon Jonckers

inTo THe silenCe: THe gReaT WaR, malloRY, and THe ConquesT oF eveResTWade Davis, Knopf, Canada, 2011, 672 pages

mosT people WiTH even a casual interest in mountains and mountaineering know that Sir Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay first reached the summit of Mount Everest on May 29, 1953. This was the crowning achievement of decades of dedication to the most precious British mountaineering goal: Summit Mount Everest. Why such dedication to a singular goal? In the book Into the Silence, author Wade Davis proposes that the motivation for climbing Everest was far more complex than the quip, “because it’s there,” attributed to George Leigh Mallory.

As with all Davis’s work, Into the Silence is meticulously researched. Some 44 pages of the book are dedicated to an annotated bibliography. Drawing on correspondence, expedition accounts and diaries of members from the early expedi-tions, official documents from WWI files, and personal memoirs, Davis exposes the character of those early climbers—many of whom were WWI veterans—and paints a definitive picture of the mystique surrounding the quest for Everest. Only a writer with Davis’s sense of history could weave the Raj of India, secret nineteenth century forays into Tibet, and the horrors of World War I into a tale with the continuity of Into the Silence. This history links together the series of events leading to the moment when Mallory and Irving disappeared into the mists and myths of history above the North Col of Everest. Washington Post columnist George F. Will, in his dust jacket blurb, neatly summarizes Davis’s accomplishment: “The First World War, the worst calamity humanity has ever inflicted on itself, still reverberates in our lives. In its immediate after-math, a few young men who had fought in it went looking for a healing challenge, and found it far from the Western Front. In recreating their aston-ishing adventure, Wade Davis has given us an elegant meditation on the courage to carry on.” Those who choose to tackle this hefty tomb will be richly rewarded by views of the golden age of mountaineering and the world’s history during the first half of the last century. // Stan Miller

davis exposes the char-acter of those early

climbers—many of whom were wwi veterans.Fib

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Half Ironman. “I improved on my time from my previous Half Ironman, from five years ago, by 18 minutes, which I was excited about because this course was a lot more challenging,” she says. While the Half Ironman is her favorite dis-tance, she will race in the 2013 Ironman Coeur d’Alene. Kristina is no stranger to race-day heartbreak. At the Boise Half Ironman in June, she left the start area 30 minutes before the race began. “I had all the training under my belt, and unfor-tunately the combination of bad weather and moderate hypothermia took its toll on my body. I just kept thinking about my three little ones at home and that this was just a race and that my health and safety were more important,” she says. “Learning to be able to walk away from something I had worked so hard for was mentally tough, but I don’t regret the decision one bit. It made me stronger and more hungry for the Lake Stevens Half Iron.” Encouragement from a strong support net-work helps make Kristina the triathlon mom she is today. “My husband…is always encouraging me to work hard and have fun. My parents taught me, at a very early age, the importance of being active. And our great friends and babysitters have helped us with our kids during training and rac-ing,” she says. Since last December, she and her husband, Mike, have been members of Team Blaze. “From the moment we joined, we felt like we had been members for years. Having a team to train with, push you, encourage you, and make you better has transformed my racing immensely. I never train or race alone anymore. There is always a

teammate either racing with me, or cheering me on from the sidelines,” says Kristina. “One thing I love most about Team Blaze is that the levels of athletes on our team range from novice to elite and we all train together. ‘Enjoy The Journey’

was always the motto of our late Coach Scott Roy, and through his passing earlier this year I have learned how to truly embrace this motto in racing and my day-to-day life.” Kristina’s training schedule for the Half Ironman distance includes workouts 5-6 days a week, for a weekly total of 10-15 hours. “My first commitment is to my family, as I am a full-time stay-at-home mom raising three kids ages 1-4,” she says. She’s also an entrepreneur—her company, Practical Help for Every Woman (P.H.E.W.), pro-vides “survival” kits for brides and new moms. And she teaches group fitness classes at both the Valley YMCA and Liberty Lake Athletic Club. Kristina also enjoys water skiing, boating and snow skiing. Here is her gear list for her triathlon training and racing.-------------------------------------------------------sWimsuiT: Pearl Izumi P.R.O Tri racing top &

What’s�YourGear: Kris�tin�a Northcutt (triathlon�) By Am�y Silbern�agel McCaffree

knoWing sHe RaCes FasTeR today than she did with her pre-motherhood body is an awe-some feeling. “I love that the sport of triathlon encourages and welcomes athletes of all levels,” says Kristina Northcutt, whose rookie race was “My First Triathlon” in July 2004 in Chelan, Wash. “I love the aspect of having three different sports in one race and the fact that anyone can do a triathlon if they put the time into it. So many people think that because they aren’t good at one portion of the race means that they can’t do any of it, which is a misconception.” She has now completed about eleven triath-lons. “My motivation usually comes from the goal to improve from past races that I did before I had my three kids,” she says. “I’m motivated to prove to myself that I can race stronger, tougher and more determined! Also, seeing my three little ones cheering on the sideline makes me push a little harder!” Kristina recently completed the Lake Stevens

“Learning to be able to walk away from something i had

worked so hard for was men-tally tough.”

Sugoi Tri racing shorts.-------------------------------------------------------sWim goggles & sWimCap: Aqua Sphere Seal XPT goggles & TYR cap.-------------------------------------------------------WeT suiT &/oR dRY suiT: ORCA long-sleeved wetsuit for early-season races; Blue Seventy sleeveless wetsuit for mid/late-summer races.-------------------------------------------------------RaCing Bike: Specialized Vita road bike with Profile Design Aero handlebars; recently pur-chased a Tommaso Aggraziato road bike.-------------------------------------------------------Bike sHoes & soCks: SIDI women’s Triathlon Cycling shoes with Adidas low-cut cushion socks.-------------------------------------------------------HelmeT: Giro Savant.-------------------------------------------------------Running sHoes: Asics Gel Kayano 17 with Yankz laces for quick transitions.-------------------------------------------------------HaT: Headsweat Visor.-------------------------------------------------------WaTCH: Garmin 305.-------------------------------------------------------sunglasses: Lightweight pair with light lens set for overcast days and dark lens set for sunny days. -------------------------------------------------------CloTHing FoR Biking & Running: When it’s warm outside, she prefers Pearl Izumi bike shorts and a bike jersey, and Nike running shorts or a running skirt and any sweat-wicking shirt. //

2011- 2012

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Train�in�gTips�

WHY sequesTeR YouRselF to an indoor gym to train this summer? Here are two out-door workouts you can do anywhere (grab videos for any of these exercises at www.PacificFit.net).

1. Complete this quick 10-minute routine as a circuit, one time through, with minimal rest between exercises. No warm-up required.

• 25 body weight squats

• 10 lunge jumps per side

• 10 side plank rotations

• 10 front plank taps

• 10 lateral lunges per side

• 10 squat jumps

• 25 kickouts per side

• Finish with a 60-second squat hold

2. For this slightly longer workout, do 4-6 rounds of this routine, resting minimally between exercises. For increased difficulty, add 25-50 jumping jacks between each set.

• Step up and down on a step, stair or raised surface for 5 minutes for your warm-up. Or do 100 jumping jacks.

• 10-20 push-ups

• 10-20 body weight squats

• 10-20 dips (using a tree trunk, step, stair, raised surface, etc.)

• 10-20 lunge jumps

• 10-20 corkscrew rotations per side

These two workouts will keep you looking trim and fit this summer, without having to go to a gym. //

ben greenfield offers free articles, videos and a

podcast at bengreenfieldfitness.com.

outdooR woRKouts you CAn do AnywheRehow to Recover From triathlon training / By Ben greenfield

i love mY Bike BeCause it’s so much fun to ride. For commuting, it handles racks, saddle bags (panniers) and fenders without a hitch. The single speed gearing is simple and easy to main-tain no matter what the weather is doing, and the

cyclocross-style frame has no problem jumping from the street to trails for quick excursions. It’s a great do-it-all bike for short rides to the market or to work and showing up with a gigantic smile on my face regardless of the destination. // //

I My Bik�e Drew Meuer

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Wild Moose Chase Trail Run5km, 10km, 25km CoursesSaturday, September 29, 2012Mt. Spokane State Park

Come join us on Mt. Spokane during one of the best times of the year to

enjoy the outdoors and run some great trails!

Race and registration information is available at:http://www.wildmoosechasetrailrun.com

Race contact: [email protected]


i Was Riding on an aRTeRial around 5:30 pm on a sunny day. There was no other traf-fic. Ahead I spotted someone slowing as he approached the intersection from my left. He looked my way and I could swear he looked

right at me. Still, I was ready just in case. Sure enough, instead of coming to a full stop he accelerates and comes across the intersection on a collision course with me. I hit the brakes. “Hey!”

“Sorry, man. I didn’t see you,” he yelled as he continued on. I’m wearing a screaming hi-viz yellow jacket. He looked right at me, and he didn’t see me? How can that be?

How often do we hear of accidents where someone says, “I didn’t even see him?” Quite likely it’s because of inattentional blindness. If you’ve never heard of it, there are plenty of vid-eos online that show how it works. One exam-ple is at http://youtu.be/IGQmdoK_ZfY (“The Monkey Business Illusion”).

How does this failure of awareness apply to those of us on the road? Simple. In an auto-cen-tric environment, we’re conditioned by our expe-riences of seeing mostly vehicles. Consequently, we tend to focus on vehicles and are less likely to see bicycles.

What can you as a cyclist do to decrease your odds of being a victim to inattentional blind-ness? First of all, follow the rules of the road. You want to be predictable. Give others else the same expectations that you have of them when they are on the road. When you approach a stop sign, put a foot down and wait for your turn to go. Ride with traffic instead of against the flow. Signal your turns and stops. Obey traffic lights. Reduce the surprises for everyone else.

Second, try to be seen. Wear bright and con-trasting colors. Use front and rear lights. Wear

clothing that has reflective markings. Anything you do to make yourself more noticeable will help. There are inexpensive lights that can fit in your spokes.

Last, ride like you’re invisible. I’ve had quite a

few close calls during my years of bike commut-ing, and I avoided a collision each time because I was prepared in case that other person did not see me. When someone ahead approaches the intersection from the right or the left, I expect him or her to pull out in front of me. I try to make eye contact but don’t assume that I have. If an oncoming car is in the left turn lane, I assume they’re going to turn in front of me. If a long truck passes me, I think they’re going to return to the lane too soon and cut me off. Most of the time these dangerous situations didn’t happen, but when they did I slowed, stopped, turned or just got off the road to make sure I didn’t get hit. Even if you’re in the right, you still lose if you get hit. Nobody wants to hit you, but he/she doesn’t always see you.

In closing, let me emphasize that vehicle driv-ers are not the only people with an inattentional blindness problem. Everyone on the road needs to increase their awareness of who they are shar-ing the road with. That guy I mentioned who didn’t see me was, like me, riding a bicycle. //

EverydayCyclis�t

inAttentionAL BiKe BLindnessBeing seen is the Best way to Be safe / By hank greer

how often do we hear of accidents where some-one says, “i didn’t even

see him?” Quite likely it’s because of inattentional

blindness.

RIDING TO BE SEEN IN SPOKANE. // PHOTO HANK GREER

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more info at www.runnersoul.comSpokane's only running specialty store. 221 N. Wall St. 509.624.7654

U District Summer Series Aug 8, 15, 22Spokane To Sandpoint Relay Aug 17


CYCLING

(ongoing - septemer 2012) inland Road Race series. When: 8 AM - 2 PM. Where: Various. A series of road races and criteriums on fast, fun courses throughout the Inland area. Cash and merchandise prizes. Info: 509-868-8604, spokan-erocketvelo.com

(september 2) the great northwest Fall Bike tour. Starting in Newport, WA. choose from a family friendly 15 mile ride to a challenging 85 mile route in the beautiful Pend O’Reille River valley. Info: Nadine 208-597-5478, www.gnwft.homestead.com

(september 8) the Lilac City twilight Crit. The finale to the 2012 Inland Road Race Series pre-sented by Larry H. Miller Downtown Dealerships and Spokane Rocket Velo. Info: spokanerocket-velo.com

(september 8&9) Bike Ms 2012. Take the chal-lenge, conquer the course to make the difference in the lives of people with MS. Info: 509-482-2022, bikeMSnorthwest.org.

(september 9) spokeFest. The largest bicycling event in Spokane catering to all levels. Choose from four routes. Promotes health, fitness and the great outdoors! Info: spokefest.org

(september 15) white Pine Pedal Mettle. Starting at the City Park, St. Maries, ID for the Eleventury (111 miles) with, +/- 7000’ of climbing or 30 Mile Ride with +/- 2500’ of climbing. Info: 208-582-0520, pedalmettle.com

(september 29) Coeur d’Fondo Ride & oktoberfest. A spirited ride around beautiful Lake Coeur d’Alene. 108, 84, 37, 15 mile routes. *37 mile includes cruise boat ride. Post ride Oktoberfest Celebration. Info: 208-292-1634, .cdagranfondo.com

RUNNING

(september 1) 7K at seven Bays. Seven Bays, WA. Info: 7K at Seven Bays Facebook page.

(september 8) Fairhaven Runners waterfront 15K in Bellingham. Info: 360-778-7000, cob.org/services/recreation/races.

(september 15) odessa dueschesfest Fun Run. Info: 509-982-2281

(september 15) terrain Racing Mud Run. Where: At Webb’s Slough, the Mud Run is a challenge that provides individuals the opportunity to swap in some hurdling, climbing and blast-having in place of their weekly mileage. Info: 414-430-1764, [email protected]

(september 16) scenic half Marathon, sandpoint, id. Info: 208-263-2161, scenichalf.com.

(september 22) tunnel to towers Run spokane 5K Run. At Riverfront Park - North Bank Shelter, the run honors the heroes of 9/11 and helps serve those that served, our firefighters, military, law enforcement and their families in need. Info: 608-658-4582, tunneltotowersrun.org

(september 29) wild Moose Chase trail Run. Info: 509-994-0616, wildmoosechasetrailrun.com

(october 7) “Run for the Angels” for inland northwest sids Foundation, sunday, from 4 to 7PM, Coeur d’Alene, id, info: inwsids-efbevent.eventbrite.com

(october 13) sekani trail Run 2012- 5k & 10k Run. Info: 509-625-6546, bit.ly/sekani_2012

(october 14) spokane Marathon. With the Marathon, Marathon Relay or 10K there are three different ways to enjoy the day. Info: spokane-marathon.us.

(november 22) BRRC turkey trot. Info: brrc.net

TRIATHALON (september 2) steve Braun Memorial triathlon. Moran State Park Orcas Island. Info: 360-376-3111, [email protected]

MULTI-SPORT / ADVENTURE RACING

(september 8) newport Biayakathon. Oldtown, ID. A sprint bike and kayak event along the beau-tiful Pend Oreille River. Info: [email protected], facebook.com/newport.biayakathon

(september 15) Mountain du. Riverside State Park Mountain Duathlon. Info: 509-326-6983, emdesports.com.//

OutdoorCalen�dar Subm�it your even�t at www.outtherem�on�thly.com�

Please visit www.outtheremonthly.com and click the “submit your event” link. // Events MUST be sent in by the 20th of the month to be listed in the following month’s issue. Please follow the when, where format as seen in the calendar. Ongoing events need to be re-submitted each month.

Have an� Even�t You Would Lik�e to Lis�t? //

siXmoNthtraiNiNGcaleNdar

com/pages/Coeur-dAlene-Commuter-Challenge

(August 4) 8 Lakes Leg Aches Bike Ride. When: 7 AM. Where: Group Health Corp Office, 5615 W Sunset Hwy, top of Sunset. Benefit ride for the Sexual Assault & Family Trauma Center of Lutheran Community Services NW. 4 routes; 15, 30, 45 & 75 miles. lcsnw.org/8lakesride. Info: 509-343-5020, lcsnw.org/8lakesride

(september 8) the Lilac City twilight Crit. The finale to the 2012 Inland Road Race Series presented by Larry H Miller Downtown Dealerships and Spokane Rocket Velo. Info: spokanerocketvelo.com

RUNNING

(August 8, 15 & 22) third Annual hot summer nights 5k series. When: 5:15. Where: 12000 North Addison St. Farwell Road near Wandermere Mall. Come join us for a run race point series that will take place on Wednesday nights in August 2012. Enjoy race drawings and give-aways. In order to be eligible for overall prizes, you must race in all three races. Cost: $5.00 per race. Info: tri-fusion.com/hsn, spokanes-wifts.com/hotsummer10k

(August 17-18) spokane to sandpoint Relay. When: Various. Where: Bear Creek Lodge, Mt. Spokane. The Spokane to Sandpoint Relay (S2S) begins atop picturesque Mt. Spokane and winds through 50 miles of world class Centennial Trail, along 60 miles of property adjacent to waterfront, and meanders through two National Forests en route to the finish line at the beach in beautiful Sandpoint, Idaho. Info: spokanetosandpoint.com

WALKING/HIKING

(August 4-6) wtA salmo Loop trail volunteer work Project. When 8 AM – 6 PM. Where: Colville National Forest. We will be working to clean the trail of fallen trees and ensure that this section of trail is accessible to stock. This will be a three day/two night backpacking trip where we will camp at the Salmo River crossing. Come join us in a great wil-derness area that has stunning views and abundant wildlife. This is a moderate backpack, intended for experienced backcountry hikers who can bring in their own provisions and camp without supervision. The purpose for this type of work party is to extend the maintenance of trails further into the backcoun-try, but it means a much more arduous experience. Volunteers must be in good physical condition and will be expected to be equipped and able to carry all gear required for an overnight stay. Info: wta.org

(August 4) hiking shadow Mountain Loop. When: 9 AM - 3 PM. Where: Mt Spokane. A moderate hike starting at the Mt Spokane Selkirk Nordic Area. Great views of Twin Lakes, Spokane Valley & Mt Spokane Alpine Ski Area. $23. Info: 509-625-6200, spokaneparks.org

(August 25) hike Riverside state Park. When: 9 – 1 PM. Where: Riverside State Park Bowl & Pitcher Parking Lot. Embark on an adventure as we explore Riverside State Park. See towering rock formations, luscious vegetation, amazing wildlife, Indian Painted Rocks and more! $12. Info: spokaneparks.org. 509-625-6200

TRIATHLONS

CLIMBING

(ongoing Mondays & wednesdays) spider Monkeys Climbing Club. When: 5 – 7 PM. Where: Wild Walls, 202 W. 2nd Ave. For kids ages 4 – 10 years. Please call ahead. Come climb and meet new friends! Info: 509-455-9596.

(August 4) saturday Climbing. When: 1 - 4 PM. Where: REI, 1125 N Monroe. Great for beginners or intermediate climbers, we provide gear and a certi-fied belayer to help you up the wall. Register at rei.com/Spokane. Info: 509-328-9900, rei.com/spokane

(August 8-12) discover Rock Class. When; 6 - 8 PM. Where: Mountain Gear 2002 N. Division. Everything you need to harness up, tie in and belay with confidence. This class is for those who wish to get into climbing, as well as for parents wishing to get their young ones climbing safely $20. Info: 509-325-9000

(August 12) top Rope Anchors. When: 9 AM – 1 PM. Where: Mountain Gear 2002 N. Division. Take your climbing to the next level and outdoors. You’ll learn how to set up a top rope on bolts, equalize, and eval-uate an anchor, plus you’ll climb on your anchors. Must have own harness, shoes and belaying system and be able to belay. $40. Info: 509-455-9596

(August 15) intro to slackline. When: 6 – 7:30 PM. Where: Camp Sekani 6707 E Upriver Dr. Improve your core, strength, balance and movement for climbing or everyday life. Slacklining is the act of balancing on a narrow, flexible piece of webbing usually low to the ground. $15. Info: spokaneparks.org, 509-625-6200

(August 25) youth intro to Rock. When: 1 - 3 PM. Where: Mountain Gear 2002 N. Division. Get your child ready for climbing! The class will introduce them to climbing safety, belaying techniques and knots, all taught by a certified instructor. We want to build their confidence so lots of climbing time will be involved. All equipment provided. Ages 7-11. $20. Info: 509-455-9596

(August 30) discover Rock women. When; 6 - 8 PM. Where: Mountain Gear 2002 N. Division. This fun filled all women’s class is your introduction to safety, knot tying, belaying and of course climbing tech-niques on the wall. You will be taught by certified and experienced instructors what you need to know for climbing at an indoor climbing gym. All equip-ment supplied for class. $20. Info: 509-325-9000

CYCLING

(ongoing) wow Cycling spokane. WOW is excited that Spring is here! Check our FaceBook page for upcoming rides and activities! Tailwinds to you! Info: 509-951-6366, wowcycling.com

(ongoing) Belles and Baskets. Whatever style your cycle, join other Spokane women for no-drop rides, treats, and friendship. Info: 509-951-4090, facebook.com/bellesandbaskets.

(ongoing - August 31) Coeur d’Alene Commuter Challenge. When: Anytime. Where: All throughout Coeur d’Alene. Several local businesses have joined together to provide special discounts on selected items to bicycle commuters who pedal to participat-ing shops and stores. Info: 208-667-8969, facebook.

(August 4) Medical Lake Kiwanis Mini triathlon. When: Check-in 8:45 AM Race at 10 AM. Where: Waterfront Park Medical Lake, WA. Swim - 1200 feet, Bike - 10 miles, Run - 3.4 miles. Great for first timers or inexperianced triathletes. Entry form at www.medical-lake.org Info: 509-299-5478, [email protected]

(August 5) troika triathlon. When: 2 – 4 PM. Where:

Medical Lake – Spokane. This historic ½ triathlon is a scenic mix of rural and city routes beginning in Medical Lake’s Waterfront Park and finishing in downtown Spokane at Riverfront Park. We hope you enjoy the day’s event and appreciate you participat-ing in Troika! Info: troikatriathlon.com

ADVENTURE RACING/ MULTISPORT


OutdoorCalen�dar Aug 2012outdooRCALendAR

(september 2) Roll Rack ‘n’ Run. Where: Spokane Falls Community College. Teams of two share a bicycle to leap frog over a 25k course. The ride and tie is an equestrian race with two runner/riders and a horse. We’ve replaced the horse with a bicycle. Two person teams alternate running and riding in leap-frog fashion over 25-kilometers (15.5 miles). The team finishes when both runners and the bike cross the finish line. We provide bicycle corrals to divide the course roughly in fourths. Info: rollrack-nrun.com

PADDLING / RIVER SPORTS

(ongoing - Labor day) when: 10:30 AM – 6 PM. Where: Spokane River. This year FLOW Adventures is proud to be the first in Spokane to introduce tub-ing on the Spokane River! Water levels right in the heart of the summer provide the perfect conditions to grab your friends and family and get out on our local gem, right from downtown! Info: 509-242-8699, flow-adventures.com

(ongoing) Learn to Row. When: Various times. Where: Spokane River near Upriver Dam. Spokane River. Rowing Association summer sessions are for men and women (age 18 and older) who are interested in trying a new sport and adding a fun dimension to their summer schedule. Each three-week session will be made up of lessons on the ergometer and on-the-water sessions in actual row-ing shells! The cost for the three-week class is $120 and covers 7 sessions, including a Saturday morning session with the SRRA Masters group. Info: Spokane rowing.org

(August 1) Rafting Lower spokane River Full Moon Float. When: 8 - 11 PM. Where: Meet at Row Adventure Center. Experience the Spokane River by moonlight, it will be magical! Light snacks included. Ages 10+, $31 per person. Info: 509-625-6200, spo-kaneparks.org

(August 1) Rafting Lower spokane River Full Moon Float. When: 8 - 11 PM. Where: Meet at Row Adventure Center. Experience the Spokane River by moonlight, it will be magical! Light snacks included. Ages 10+, $31 per person. Info: 509-625-6200, spo-kaneparks.org

(August 3) Canoe evening Paddle on the Little spokane. When: 5 PM - 8 PM. Where: Nine-Mile Falls. Enjoy a relaxing evening paddling this beautiful river from Indian Painted Rocks to Nine Mile. Beginners welcome! Info: 509-625-6200, spo-kaneparks.org

(August 4) Rafting Lower spokane River wine Float. When: 3:30 PM - 6 PM. Where: Spokane River. Relax in the splendor of nature as you sip locally crafted red & white wines & nibble on mouth water-ing food. $69. Info: 509-625-6200, spokaneparks.org

(August 4 & 19) Recreational Kayaking. When: 10 – Noon. Where: Mt. Gear, 2002 N. Division. We will teach you how to get into your boat and to your destination with as little stress as possible. Class covers boat types, basic and some advanced strokes, appropriate clothing, safety, gear, dry storage, and rigging. $30. Info: 509-328-9900

(August 4 & 19) tour Kayaking. When: 1 – 5 PM. Where: Mt. Gear 2002 N. Division. Take your

paddling to the next level with this intro to boat-handling skills. Class covers personal and safety gear, kayak design, getting in and out of your boat, paddles and strokes, bracing, stopping and sweeps, wet exit, self and tandem rescue. $50. Info: 509-328-9900

(August 11) spokane River Festival. When: 10 AM – 4 PM. Where: Glover Park. The mission of Riverfest is to educate and inform the public about the benefits of recreating safely on the Spokane River, in turn helping to preserve and protect the natural resource that is the cornerstone of Spokane. Glover Park is a potential future home of the Spokane Whitewater Park - providing safe, fun recreation for all Spokane residents. Info: facebook.com/pages/Spokane-River-Festival

(August 16 & 28) Canoe & Kayak demo. When: 5:30 – 7:30 PM. Where: Spokane River Boulder Beach. Whether you’re a new boater or want to take your paddling to the next level, come try the latest in kayaking and canoeing with Mountain Gear’s free demos. Conveniently located at the Spokane River’s Boulder Beach, these demos are a great opportunity to try new boat designs. If there is a boat you would like to have brought out, just give us a call the day of, and we will have it waiting for you. Info: 509-325-9000

(August 18) Paddle, splash & Play. When: 10 AM – 3 PM. Where Nine Mile Recreation Area. This is a free event for kids to get a chance to experience the sport of non-motorized water sports. We will have many boats and paddleboards available to use and expe-rienced paddlers to answer your questions. Bring Lifejackets if you have them. Just swing by Nine Mile Recreational Area and bring a lunch for a fun day on the river. Info: 509-325-9000

(August 22) Basic Canoeing. When: 5:30 – 9 PM. Where Mt. Gear 2002 N. Division. This class will get you into your canoe and to your destination with as little effort as possible. Class covers boat types, basic and advanced strokes, appropriate clothing combinations, safety, paddles, storage and rigging. Info: 509-325-9000

EVENTS/MOVIES/MISC…

(August 3) Mobius science Center grand opening. The NEW Mobius Science Center, across the street from Mobius Kids Children’s Museum in River Park Square, opens to the public August 3rd with a Grand Opening celebration to take place on September 8th. Info: mobiusspokane.org, 509-443-5669

(August 5) Beach2Beach. When: 6:30 AM. Where: Hope, ID. A standup paddle board race across Lake Pend Oreille. Inaugural crossing of 10.5 miles from Hope to Sandpoint. Info: 208-360-9647, goatevents.com

(August 11) Mountain gear scuff and ding sale. When: Open Hours. Where: Mt. Gear 2002 N. Division. Hundreds of gently used, out of the box, demo and rental products at deeply discounted prices. Camping and climbing gear, clothing, water sports gear and more. Browse the racks for that per-fect find! Info: 509-325-9000

(August 16) FRee Film showing of “Blue gold”. When: 4 PM. Where: Sun People Dry Goods Co, 32 W 2nd Ave, Ste. 200. In every corner of the globe, we are polluting, diverting, pumping, and wasting

our limited supply of fresh water as population and technology grows. Info: 509-368-9378, sunpeople-drygoods.com

(August 18 & 19) “Pickin’ on the Prairie” Antique show. When: 10 AM - 4 PM. Where: Past Blessings Farm (8521 N. Orchard Prairie Rd., Spokane - 10 blocks North of Bigelow Gulch Rd.). Spend the day on our farm! Amazing antiques, primitives, farm-house decor & more. Beautiful views, great food & music and memories to be made! Info: pastblessings.blogspot.com

(August 26) Lands Council Brews Cruise. When 1PM. Where: Saranac Pub. Help support The Lands Council with an afternoon of bikes, beers and live music. After-ride party featuring live music by the Terrible Buttons. Pre-register at tlcbrewscruise.eventbrite.com. Info: Amanda Swan at 509-209-2851//

SUSTAINABILITY CALENDAR

(ongoing) spokane Farmers’ Market. When: Sat. & Wed. 8 AM - 1PM. Where: 5th Ave. between Division & Browne. We offer locally produced bed-ding plants, vegetables, fruits, berries, beef, pork, lamb, chicken, turkey, eggs, cheese and baked goods. Info: 509-995-0182, spokanefarmersmarket.org

(ongoing - october 20) new Farmers Market. When: 9 AM – 1 PM. Where: Main & Astor, down-town Colville, WA. Fresh, local fruits and vegetables in season, bedding plants and garden starts, artisan baked goods, gifts and crafts. 509-738-2089, [email protected].

(August 16) FRee Film showing of “Blue gold”. When: 4 PM. Where: Sun People Dry Goods Co, 32 W 2nd Ave, Ste. 200. In every corner of the globe, we are polluting, diverting, pumping, and wasting our limited supply of fresh water as population and technology grows. Info: 509-368-9378, sunpeople-drygoods.com

(August 21) Conservation in Colors: watercolors by wes hanson. When: 6 -9 PM. Where: Community Building lobby. One night only art event features 30+ original paintings by Wes Hanson of INLT con-servation easements and local landscapes. Half the proceeds benefit INLT. Info: 509-329-2939, inland-nwlandtrust.org

(August 23) Fermentation workshop. When: 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM. Where: Sun People Dry Goods Co, 32 W 2nd Ave, Ste. 200. Learn the benefits of fermen-tation, active bacteria, and how to make Sauerkraut at a hands-on workshop with Wakan Burrows. If you have a bumper crop of veggies, or know someone with excess, don’t let any of the garden goodies go to waste! It’s easy, fun, healthy, and gives you the ability to enjoy those scrumptious garden veggies in winter. This workshop is for anyone interested in vegetable fermentation. $15 Pre-Registration Required. Info: 509-368-9378, www.sunpeopledrygoods.com

(August 26) Lands Council Brews Cruise. When 1PM. Where: Saranac Pub. Help support The Lands Council with an afternoon of bikes, beers and live music. After-ride party featuring live music by the Terrible Buttons. Pre-register at tlcbrewscruise.eventbrite.com. Info: Amanda Swan at 509-209-2851 //


MT. RAINIER, INGRAHAM FLATS. // PHOTO COURTESy KAy LECLAIRE

kaY leclaire: sPoKAne’s high ALtitude heRoineBy: Annie sZotKowsKi

KAy WITH CLIMBING PARTNER LORI SCHNEIDER // PHOTO COURTESy OF LORI SCHNEIDER


As for her personal best climb ever, she gives that honor to Cartensz Pyramid in Indonesia. It was “the only one I did that was totally a rock climb…I prefer ice and snow,” she says. “I was proud of myself to overcome my fears and make it to the summit.”

The pinnacle of her Seven Summits feat came on May 23, 2009, when Kay successfully reached the summit of Mt. Everest—after three previous expeditions and attempts to do so. She was 61-years-old, which made her the second oldest woman to summit Everest at the time.

Kay wasn’t the only one to make history that morning. Lori was diagnosed with mul-tiple sclerosis (MS) in 1999 and achieved her

seventh peak summit with Kay, the first per-son with MS to climb the highest peaks on all seven continents. She and Kay also climbed Mt. Elbrus in Russia and Ixta Volcano and Nevado de Toulca Volcano in Mexico together.

-----------------------------------------------------TRainingWhether it’s training to climb or to stay fit, Kay’s exercise routine is methodical. Currently, Kay tries to run at least twice a week and lifts weights about three times a week.

“On the weekend I pick a hike—a long one is nice, usually [it takes] seven to eight hours,” she says. She trains on local peaks like Mt. Spokane.

aY leClaiRe ReTuRned to base camp and watched as her friends and teammates continued to sum-mit the highest point on Earth. She was fighting a cold and knew that if pneumonia set in, she would be a danger to the rest of her climbing

team. So she took responsibility— congratulated her teammates on their Mt. Everest summit and rested her body.

Then she started training for Ironman. That was in 2006. Her endurance built from

training for Ironman led to a number of moun-taineering summits across the world. Three years later, Kay reached the summit of Mt. Everest and consequently achieved the seventh highest peak just ten years after her first climb—making her the first woman over age 60 to complete the world’s Seven Summits (the highest peak on each con-tinent).

Kay, 63, lives in Spokane and is recognized for her mountaineering achievements on a grand scale, accomplished later in life, but with a resil-ient, youthful vitality. She is quick to tell you that the journey was not easy. Teamwork, exercise and

her spiritual connection to nature have been the footholds in her climbing accomplishments. She has seen blind and amputated climbers achieve their goals, which inspires her to overcome her own obstacles and climb more.

And she’s not stopping anytime soon. She receives numerous invitations to lead climbs and shares her stories as a public speaker. A former nurse and competitive ballroom dancer and law school graduate, she continues climbing and training for triathlons. Catching her between climbing trips, Out There Monthly got the chance to hear about her future plans and learn where she’s been.

-----------------------------------------------------FRom mT. RainieR To mT. BlanC Kay recently returned from climbing Mt. Rainier for the third time. Compared to her premier climb on Rainier in June 2000, Kay says there is now much more to expect.

About her rookie Rainier summit, she says, “I had no idea what I was doing. I knew we were going up a fairly large mountain, but I didn’t know how much I needed to train.”

Climbing with her son, who 15 years old at the time, was enjoyable, but Kay learned a lesson. Her motherly instincts kicked in when Andrew needed something, while she sacrificed her own provisions. She learned it’s just as important to take care of herself before assisting others.

During Kay’s most recent Rainier climb, Mount Rainier National Park Ranger Nick Hall fell 3,700 feet to his death on June 21, 2012, after rescuing two women who fell into a crevasse. According to The Seattle Times, Hall was help-ing climbers evacuate by helicopter when he fell. Mountains can be unpredictable, which leads to fear and uncertainty. Kay faced fear, but does not let it blur her judgment: “There are moments of ‘do I really want to do this?’ and if conditions are dangerous, you don’t. You make a judgment call, and you hope your call is right.”

Wisconsin climber Lori Schneider, who was 53 years old when she reached the summit of Mt.

Everest with Kay, also learned to read mountains. “[Mountains] have their own sense of timing, and even the most prepared climber can be challenged by weather, altitude and harsh conditions.”

“You can’t plan for freak accidents,” Kay says.Risks are inevitable, even when paying attention to weather or keeping an eye on everyone while climbing. When Kay successfully climbed Alaska’s Denali (Mt. McKinley) in June 2004—her sec-ond attempt—she learned that some experienced rangers could be blown off the mountain if heli-copters came too close.

Despite the dangers or wear from physical training, Kay is not yet retiring her ice pick, cram-pons or rope and climbing shoes. She persevered even after injuring her ACL during one of her Everest climbs and during her Denali attempt in 2003. Setbacks and close calls are not enough to stop her; rather, they boost her effort to encour-age others.

“Everest is all about close calls,” says Lori. “[Kay] had such skill in handling the ropes and technical equipment. She always encouraged me when she was assertive and aggressive to trust our knowledge and skills.” At base camp, Kay and Lori

watched as avalanches cascaded down Everest’s Khumbu ice falls, which Lori considers the scari-est place on the mountain. “We could see climb-ers being covered,” she says. Mental toughness is mandatory, especially after realizing you’ll be in the same place you just witnessed others become victims of less merciful mountain conditions.

“The mountain really calls the shots,” Kay says.

Now in Chamonix, France, Kay is preparing to climb Mt. Blanc on the French side. (The moun-tain borders both France and Italy.) “She always keeps in great physical condition, to go from one mountain to another,” says Lori.

Mountaineer Alan Arnette, on his website, states that Mt. Blanc “arguably has the best alpine climbing in Europe.” He compares Mt. Blanc to Denali but suggests it is more simi-lar to Rainier because of its numerous climb-ing routes and the relative short time it takes to summit. Arnette, however, warns that Mt. Blanc should be approached with proper exer-cise and “logistics for emergency situations.”

If all goes well for Kay, Mt. Blanc will soon be added to her extensive and impressive climbing résumé.

-----------------------------------------------------noTaBle summiTsAfter Kay completed her very first climb—her initial Rainier summit—she soon enrolled in the Spokane Mountaineers Mountain School. Before becoming accredited through climbing school, she completed five different climbs in rock, snow and mountaineering.

Kay’s summits stretch across the globe, including solo climbs in Australia and Colorado, and team climbs on various other peaks across the United States, Mexico and Central America—in addition to her Seven Summits achievement.

“Believe it or not, despite horrible weather, my favorite climb was the summit on Denali,” she says. “[It’s] a beautiful mountain with chal-lenges, crevasses, avalanches.”

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - “i hAd no ideA whAt i wAs doing. i Knew we weRe

going uP A FAiRLy LARge MountAin, But i didn’t Know how MuCh i needed to tRAin.”

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2nd annual Brews Cruiseand benefit concert

An afternoon of b ikes , beers , and l ive mus ic!

After-ride party featuring live music by the T e r r i b l e B u t t o n s . S u n d a y , A u g u s t 2 6 t h , 1 p.m. - whenever...

Eager Beaver Registration [before 8.10]

$ 1 5 TLC members

$ 2 0 Non-members

DRINK SPECIALS ALL DAY. 21+.

Start & Finish at Saranac Pub

Bar stops : Litz’s & SidebarREgIStER Atwww.tlcbrewscruise.eventbrite.com

Contact Amanda Swan at (509) 209-2851 for questions

www.landscouncil.org

KKAy COMPETING IN A TRIATHLON.//PHOTO COURTE-Sy KAy LECLAIRE


With her pack loaded with water-filled milk jugs, Kay hikes to the top, enjoys the scenic view, and then empties the jugs before descending. She also heads to Steven’s Peak in Mullan, Idaho.

Plans to compete in this year’s Ironman Coeur d’Alene were put on hold when her mother broke her hip. Kay hopes to participate next year and work her way to the training mileage required.

Kay thinks the reason why some people give up exercising is because of how difficult it can be to get up in the morning. “You’ve got to work your way up to it,” she says. “I find [exercise] really sat-isfying afterward—the same with climbing.” She says the feeling after a run or workout is especially rejuvenating, while the effort to get out of bed the following morning can be the most difficult.

Climbers do go through emotional highs and lows. The hours needed to train and climb can be a mental workout to even comprehend. As a nurse, Kay’s work ethic developed to endure long hours, but they were not supplemental to train for climbing, as Kay found out on her first climb on Mt. Rainier.

Climbing allowed Kay to realize how important exercise is for her physical and mental health. “As

a nurse I can’t say there were career highs. It’s very satisfying if you can help a patient…With hospi-tal nursing, I reached a point where I got really depressed. You put in a lot of hours and some patients don’t make it. I wasn’t getting a lot of exer-cise and turned to antidepressants,” she says.

Since Kay started climbing 12 years ago, she has noticed a significant, positive shift in her self-esteem and confidence. “Highs with climbing are not necessarily making it to the summit,” she says. “I just enjoy the outdoors so much—getting to the summit of Mt. Spokane on a beautiful day, with an incredible view. I feel I’m in good shape, and it’s a good exercise.”

------------------------------------------------------keeping iT posiTiveKay values a good sense of humor. Mountaineering can be a heavy task, but a laugh or smile seems to lighten the load as teammates lighten their atti-tudes. Camaraderie, but also a positive attitude, channels the will to keep going. Kay attempted to summit Everest four times in five years, refusing to give up. When she did summit, she felt over-whelmed. “I did something I still can’t believe I did. I think it was so special for me because I had to work so hard,” she says. “Some people are able to climb up, [and] everything works perfectly.”

Kay describes how she lost confidence after her failed Everest attempts. How she prepared to sell her gear and say “enough is enough,” yet she didn’t. With each failed attempt, she trained after recovering: “I’d rest up because it was so physically draining, but when I was in good health I thought if I just trained a little harder this is what I can do next time. I guess it’s just in my blood,” she says. “I look back and still can’t believe I made it. It makes me cry…There’s something amazing about step-ping on the highest point on Earth.”

With the help from Chhewang Nima Sherpa and her teammates, Kay overcame fear, exhaustion and sometimes injury to reach her Everest goal. Chhewang Nima was on his seventeenth summit when he joined Kay. Despite the language barrier, she enjoyed his sense of humor. “[The Sherpas were] always laughing, always cheering me up,” she says. “Trying to reach the summit is slow and

arduous but [Chhewang Nima Sherpa] made sure my oxygen was okay, making sure I was eating and drinking...I just felt confident. I knew I felt safe in his hands.”

------------------------------------------------------HeR FuTuRe goalsKay does not intend on retiring from climbing anytime soon. “I’ve been asked by several people if I would lead a few climbs…I’ve been asked by women if I’d mind guiding in the area,” she says. She might not pursue more big expedition climbs, however, because they’re time consuming and require carrying such heavy loads.

A woman climber deals with overcoming doubts by others and proving her strength, ability, and success to achieve altitudinal goals. Lori applauds Kay in pushing beyond the boundaries in the face of gender adversity. Gender and age seem to be at a women’s disadvantage in the sport of climbing. “Kay never believed that,” says Lori. “She was not afraid to get out and compete in a world where women our age don’t try. She was so strong and powerful and had to overcome obstacles put in her way just by being a woman. Because she never

lost faith and hope, she could continue to climb throughout her life.” With her zest to beat the odds, Kay’s adventures continue.

When she’s not climbing, Kay channels encour-agement as a motivational speaker, with a mes-sage that emphasizes perseverance, confidence and endurance. She has presented to various groups, such as the Lion’s Club, women’s sororities and the Spokane Public Library. In April, she spoke at the Washington State Recycling Association Conference. “It was a lot of fun because I could put in slides that showed how difficult recycling is for countries around the world because they don’t have programs,” she says. “You see plastic water bottles everywhere.” She has also shared her expe-riences with Professor Adrian Popa’s leadership classes at Gonzaga.

“Kay has been a real mentor [to me],” says Lori, who’s also an inspirational speaker. “She is a woman that not only taught me about being strong in the mountains, but [also about] being strong in life…She is a wonderful example for climbers and adventurers of all ages, but her message is especially powerful for women as they continue to challenge themselves in a physical world, giving new meaning to the idea of aging gracefully.”

“I’m definitely proud of myself, but what I love most is giving people a good feeling about them-selves,” says Kay. “My mission and goal is [to help] others with self-confidence and get their butts out there and exercise because it’s such a great feeling.” //

for more information about Kay leclaire, visit

her website: www.kayleclaire.com.

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MAKing it to the suMMit.” - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

TOP IMAGE: KAy AND ANG KAJI NEAR THE SUMMIT OF SHISHA PANGMA, TIBET, OCT. 2011. // PHOTO COURTESy KAy LECLAIRE. MIDDLE IMAGE: KAy AND LORI SCHNEIDER ON EVEREST. // PHOTO COURTESy LORI SCH-NEIDER.

BOTTOM IMAGE: KAy CLIMB-ING. // PHOTO COURTESy KAy LECLAIRE.


RoadtripDJ: Augus�t

Photo of the Mon�th

a CaTCHY BeaT and good chorus, this is what a road trip song should have. If you’ve ever arrived at your final destination with a hoarse voice from singing—and you only knew a quarter of the actual lyrics—this list is for you.

“FooTloose” / kennY loggins / YesTeRdaY, TodaY, TomoRRoW THe gReaTesT HiTs oF kennY loggins The only downfall to listening to this on a road trip is you can’t fully dance to the catchy beat!

“BaRBaRa ann” / THe BeaCH BoYs / 20 good viBRaTions, THe gReaTesT HiTs (vol. 1)Don’t judge me. My mother loved the Beach Boys, and my father let her listen to it as long as she allowed him to listen to Gloria Estefan. Nothing says road trip to me like a classic Beach Boys tune. One more confession—I always sing Babarain, not Barbara Ann.

“soak up THe sun” / sHeRYl CRoW / C’mon, C’monCompletely singable. I convince myself that I could go on tour as Sheryl Crow and no one would know the difference—my voice is that good singing along with the stereo cranked to maximum volume!

“sWeeT Home alaBama” / lYnYRd skYnYRd / all Time gReaTesT HiTsGood ol’ American classic. I venture to guess more people know the lyrics to this song than the“Star Spangled Banner.”

“liFe is a HigHWaY” / Tom CoCHRane / mad mad WoRldWho even knew the original artist of this ultimate road trip song? This number is so goodthat Rascal Flats recreated it! //

RACheLLe stoLCis

“Hope For A Tranquil Life:Rainbow Over St. Maries Meadow” photographed by Christine Schulz of Rathdrum, ID.” Send your 3 meg. or less, hi-res (200+ dpi) submission with caption to [email protected]. Best photos entries will be picked for upcoming issues.

Christine Schulz

18th Annual

‘Diversity in Action’

Friday August 3rd, Doors Open at 5:30PM In the Community Building

35 W. Main Ave, Downtown Spokane

Admission is Free!

‘Up on the Roof’ is a fundraiser for the school supplies that will be given away at Unity in the Community

10:00 a.m.—4:00 p.m. Saturday, August 18th, 2012

Riverfront Park, Downtown Spokane For more information on either event contact Traci Logan

209-2625 or [email protected]

Community-Minded.org NWUnity.org

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i made THRee neaRlY fatal errors when I decided to volunteer for a Washington Trails Association work party on the Liberty Creek Trail last spring:

1. I signed up using my real name, which meant that by the time I came to my senses, I couldn’t back out. They’d be able to hunt me down like a tick on my bald head.

2. I pretty much ignored the word “work,” thinking perhaps the operative word on the sign-up sheet was “party.” Call me a lazy old man, but I’m a sucker for a good party.

And, (3.), I thought that by volunteering for a work party on the arid east side of the Cascades, I could stay dry and warm. So I hightailed east to Liberty Lake, where Spokane County Parks and Recreation manages a fine campground and trail system at the south end of the lake. The Liberty Creek Trail leads a couple of miles beside the stream, first along a spectacular meadow where moose and other critters munch wetland delicacies. I first visited the trail a couple of years ago, where I found a sign posted at the trailhead that read: “Bears have been sited (sic) on this trail.” And I wondered whether you could be cited if you sighted a bear where it hadn’t been placed. Since I last hiked the trail, beavers have dammed the creek in a couple of places, so the meadow was decorated with a few ponds. They obvi-ously please the flat-tailed rodents, but not the mountain-biking or equestrian crowd, who used several of those pathways. After about 2 miles, the route crosses Liberty Creek and begins to climb in switchbacks to a great view of the valley and lake below. This sec-tion of trail had begun to slip downhill, servant to the same gravity that keeps trying to hide my belt buckle under my growing gut. So Jane Baker, our capable Washington Trail Association crew leader, showed me and 14 other volunteers how to make the trail flat again by using tools like the Pulaski. (Historic note: it is named for Ed Pulaski, a U.S. Forest Service Ranger who played a heroic role in the 1910 forest fire that scorched pretty much all of the

tRue tALes oF tRAiL MAintenAnCeVolunteering With The Washington Trail Association / By Seabury Blair Jr.

Las�tPage

northern part of Idaho and a good portion of Montana.) I had planned to feign an injury early on, something involving a Pulaski across my big toe, so I could get back to the “party” portion of the day. But those Trails Association people are such sticklers about safety I would have been recog-nized immediately as the corpulent malingerer that I am. Did I mention that it rained all day long? That is why mistake No. 3 was nearly fatal. I nearly drowned. How wet was it, you ask? It was so wet that at one point, I’m certain I spied a Spokane River redband trout swimming up the trail to spawn. Crew leader Baker split the volunteers into sev-eral work groups, each attacking a portion of the sagging trail. They wielded lopping shears, shov-els, rakes, Pulaskis and hoes, and they carved into the upper side of the trail to flatten the tread. I believe the rain had already shorted out a few of my brain cells, because I decided to work with

Assistant Crew Leader Lynn Smith and volunteer Miles Breneman. They had taken it upon them-selves to rebuild the Switchback from Hell. Anyone who has hiked or pedaled the Liberty Creek Trail knows about the Switchback from Hell, that sharp north-to-south downhill corner with a grand view of Liberty Lake. If you miss the turn, you take the shortcut to the creek below (And if you survive, you will be “sited” for cutting switchbacks.). Smith handed me a Pulaski and instructed me to dig into the mountain until I hit bedrock or Tower Mountain, whichever came first. He and Breneman began toting boulders other volunteers exposed while leveling the tread. The rain continued to fall, that insidious Seattle rainforest rain that turns Gore-Tex to cheesecloth

and forces slugs to don PFDs. Yet as wet and miserable as it was, I didn’t see a single frown or hear a complaint from any of the volunteers. It reminded me of something Jane Baker said at the morning briefing: “Most of all, we want you to be safe and have fun.” Summer’s here. The mud has dried. You can’t make my nearly fatal mistakes. Find yourself a volunteer trail work party, be safe and have fun. //

spokane native seabury blair Jr. is the author

of six trail guides, including The Creaky

Knees Guide to Washington. his latest book is

Washington Wild Roads. email him at skiberry@

hughes.net.

The Washington Trails Association is but one of several groups that provide opportunities for volunteers to work on trails in our neck of the woods this summer and fall. Here are a few:

Aug. 2, 18, 19; Sept. 1 & 6: Work parties at Mount Spokane State Park to expand cross-coun-try ski trails. Info: www.wta.org.

Aug. 4-6; 9-12: Backpack remote work parties in the Salmo-Priest Wilderness. Info: www.wta.org. Ongoing volunteer work: Spokane Centennial Trail. Info: www.spokanecentennialtrail.org Ongoing volunteer work: Spokane High Drive Friends of the Bluff. Email: [email protected].

i had planned to feign an injury early on, something

involving a Pulaski.

Sunday August 12th

1st annual benefit ride

The Field!Only $30

Sign-Up! 509-535-2922

Presented by: Benefitting:

spokaneindiansridethebases.com

ABOVE: MILES BRENEMAN, FOREGROUND, AND LyNN SMITH, AN ASSISTANT CREW LEADER, PACK DOWN THE MUD OF THE SWITCHBACK FROM HELL. SOGGy WASHINGTON TRAIL ASSOCIATION VOLUNTEERS AT THE END OF THE DAy. // PHOTOS By SEABURy BLAIR JR.


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Black Diamond Big Air XP Package

Reg $32.95SALE $22.98

GoPro HD Hero 2$299.99

Salewa Alp Trainer

Mid GTX$189.00

Osprey Kestrel 58

$179.00

Osprey Poco Pack

$199.00

Mountainsmith Genesee 4 Tent

$199.95

Camelbak L.U.X.E.Women’s Hydration Pack$89.00

Rec & Tour KayakKayak classes covering all the boat safety and handling skills needed to get you ready for a recreational day on the lake or a tour of the San Juans!

8.4, 8.19 Rec class: 10-12 pm $30Tour class: 1-5 pm $50

Discover Rock ClimbingFor those who wish to try climbing, as well as for parents wishing to get their young ones climbing safely.

8.8, 8.22 6-8 pm $20

Top Rope AnchorsLearn to set up a top rope on bolts, equalize and evaluate an anchor, then climb on your anchors.

8.12 9-1 pm $40

August Classes

Bluewater 10.2 Eliminator Rope

$149.98

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08 Ou Aug12.indd 1 7/20/2012 5:22:28 PM

out there monthly august 2012

Documents

newschimney rock rock

photo courtesy of kay

triathlon bikes gear

outdoor recreation

kristina northcutt

rear wheel

brig museum

rear dropouts