When you follow your heart and do what you love you never know where you might end up and how many people you will inspire along the way... On October 13th, 2006, Dennis Petersen hiked Malan's Peak to celebrate his retirement and hasn't stopped since. This Saturday he will be taking his 2,500th consecutive hike (for more details: http://www.standard.net/stories/2013/08/13/2500-hikes-dennis-petersen-has-climbed-malans-peak-every-day-nearly-seven-years ).
Little did I know about any of this when I first met him on my first winter hike ever as he whirled by me almost 5 years ago. He was super friendly and on a mission (obviously to climb the peak). His presence and speed inspired me. Though there was no way for me to keep up, I remember thinking: I want to be like him when I grow up... :) Later that winter he was there, cheering me on, the very first time I "conquered" Malan's Peak. He was so thrilled for me. I will always cherish that as one of my fondest memories.
I have been hiking fairly regularly ever since and it has been a joy. While I am still no where close to Dennis' speed, it is always fun to run into him and other fellow hikers. No matter what though, he has always been one of my main inspirations when it comes to hiking.
As the article shows, I am just one of many he inspired. It all started one day at a time (baby steps) and now it is an incredible achievement! Congratulations Dennis!!!!
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