WHY?

This is a cool video that features some of the most extreme adventure athletes in their element and poses the question, "WHY?" A valid question for sure for any of us that seek adventure. We all know that there is an element of risk in the activities we choose to partake in, and it is always interesting to me to hear what others think about as they daily risking lives for the sport they love.


http://vimeo.com/34666308


After watching these folks, I am urged to think, is that it. In my own athletic pursuits, I am simply doing it for the thrill, or is there something more. Sure I can relate to them in some instances, makes me feel more alive, I love competition, allows to focus solely on the task at hand. And yet, I think a letter that my friend Dallas Kloke wrote to his family (dated 12/22/64) sums it up best for me.

To whom it may concern:

To my friends, students, relatives, and my family. I leave you my love and my memory. I owe both of you, Mother and Dad more than I can ever repay.

The mountains were adventure, I hope that if my death resulted from them that you will realize that this is what I wanted.

Death is not the end, but only the beginning. I have faith in God-- without him life is really nothing.

I remember the climb to the summit, the wind, the snow, the blue sky and fear itself. There I stood on the summit, and reach out and touched the face of God.

--Dallas Kloke

(died in a fatal climbing accident Sept. 25, 2010)