Yep, I finished the 15k Badger Mountain Challenge last weekend. Didn’t place but I didn’t think I would. It was sure a blast being on the trails with so many like-minded people who want to be fit.
But, I wanted to share some of the other people who inspire me to climb and hike, people you probably don’t even know but they are on Badger Mountain on a regular basis. They hike the different trails: Sagebrush, Canyon and Skyline. I’ve talked to some of them. Others, I know. Others, we just exchange friendly greetings when we pass.
One is Hector. He is a professional photographer (I know because he took a few moments to take a picture of me and my boys on the top of Badger Mountain the other day).
Hector Has Lost 60 Pounds on the BMP!
Hector has lost 60 pounds since April on the BMP (Badger Mountain Plan). The other day I was coming off the mountain around 4:45 a.m. and I saw Hector starting his climb. I’m not usually up that early but I learned Hector is! He said he almost didn’t get out of bed that day but he knew he had to. Hector is an inspiration.
Another inspiration is the woman who hikes on Badger regularly. 
She does it despite her bad back with her husband along too. They also volunteer for trail maintenance! More inspiration.
Another is Dick. He lost his wife a few years ago. In his 70s, Dick loves to climb the Sagebrush Trail with his grandson’s black lab (it’s more his dog, really). Dick hikes 5 or more times a week, year-round. He’s even got his cramp-ons for icy weather. Another inspiration is the old, hispanic woman who hikes up the Canyon Trail several times a week with her dog.
On Top of Badger, Again!
I would guess she’s in her 70’s. We just smile at each other and exchange “Holas” as we pass. She isn’t going to win any races, but she’s probably fitter than most 40 something couch potatoes.
Sure, it’s quite and accomplishment to do the Badger Mountain Challenge. But, this post is about some people who cover much more than 15k on a regular basis. They are an inspiration and they keep coming back for more! Way to go and thank you!