by Stacey Weidler
Enjoy, enjoy the great outdoors! I’m Stacey Weidler, 46 years old, wife of Rich Weidler, mother of 3 daughters, Ariel, Alivia, and Abbey. Although we started our outdoor adventures later in life, we are trying to make up for lost time.
I try to tell everyone I come across about the KTA Trail Challenge (former Super Hike). I stumbled across it by reading an article in a magazine about another event. Even though we had only hiked leisurely on local trails, we signed up! I think it took us about 9 ½ hours to complete. It was very tough and I have to say, I couldn’t understand how these “more mature” men and women were passing us by, smiling.
I have to admit, I hit a wall more than once during this event. With encouragement from my husband and others on the trail, I ran through the finish line with the last bit of energy I had. What amazing people you meet over those hours. We are all just trying to physically and mentally complete this challenge.
And none of this would be possible without the volunteers. Three cheers for them. The rest stops with snacks are such a blessing. I never appreciated a peanut butter and jelly sandwich like I did that day. The next year we realized, this hike was no joke and some training was necessary. I believe that cross training is key. Do a little of everything! Hike, swim, bike, run, snowshoe, paddle… do it all!
This year I urged 6 of my girlfriends to sign up for the KTA Trail Challenge. We are all avid CrossFit goers and do whatever outdoor activities we can throughout the year. Along with hiking, we recently started walking up Giants Despair, which is a very steep hill in our town.
I’m trying to express the stamina they will need for the day without freaking them out too much. I can’t wait for them to experience this exhilarating day! I have to admit, I am very much looking forward to the meal at the finish line. Just the icing on the cake!
Want to learn more? Sign Up? Volunteer? Visit the KTA Trail Challenge page!