Four years ago today was my first day in San Diego. I originally moved here with the goal of working in the outdoor industry while awaiting my assignment in the Peace Corps. My intentions shifted when I began to explore and discover my potential through the truth and beauty of the outdoors and endurance sports.
Needless to say, I didn’t serve in the Peace Corps. And in fact, I never mailed in my application. Instead, I worked at REI and took up rock climbing and peak bagging in the great outdoors of southern California.
This developed my network, led to my current job at Active and laid the foundation for running ultra marathons.
Since I started running three years ago, I have raced at nearly every competitive distance and completed seven ultra marathons, including two 100-mile ultra marathons and a full iron-distance triathlon.
The knowledge acquired through these experiences and my role as the online community specialist on Active.com, enables me to connect, educate and motivate new athletes across the globe. In doing so, I found a way to utilize my degree in sociology while helping people live healthier and more productive lives.
Today I begin my fifth year in San Diego and I do so passionately because I love what I’m doing and I’m truly happy. I’m especially grateful for my family, friends and all the incredible individuals I continue to connect with. Thank you all for your trust, for your support and for inspiring me to be the best version of myself.
I’m setting some big goals for the next year, but first thing is first. I’m excited to really get after it this weekend in the Sierra Nevada Mountains for the Palisades Traverse. We postponed the trip two weeks ago due to inclement weather. Since then, my climbing partner and I fine-tuned our strategy: we’re attempting a “car-to-car” light and fast effort on Saturday. This means we’re climbing five 14,000’ peaks in one day with only the following gear:
Personal gear:
Daypack, headlamp, harness, belay device, hydration reservoir, snacks, TP
Clothing:
Hat, sunglasses, shirt, shorts, trail running shoes, climbing shoes
Shared:
Camera, SteriPen, First-Aid Kit, 30-meter rope
Here’s another shot of the Palisades Traverse:
From right to left: Thunderbolt, Starlight, North Palisade, Polemonium and Sill.
Yours in Adventure,
~Toby
Beautiful post. I love "the truth and beauty of the outdoors." Sure seems like you've got it figured out and how great that you are living the life that you love- something to which we should all aspire. As you passionately set out for your fifth year, make it a priority to keep making them better :)
great post Toby!! Truly an inspiration to others to run ultras and enjoy the outdoors!! :o) Good luck on your traverse! it's looks AMAZING!!!! take plenty of pictures please!!:o)
I had no idea that you were originally waiting on the Peace Corp. Glad you ended up sticking around! Can't wait to hear about the traverse this weekend!
holy crap dude. good luck this weekend. have fun goes without saying!!!
Guys, thanks for stopping by to read and taking the time to comment. I'm loving this new space to blog! And, I'm glad you like it too :)
I hope you continue to enjoy San Diego and beyond for many years to come. You're an inspiration to most, making me and I'm sure others believe anything is possible. Continue your adventures with as much excitement as you experienced in your first. Have a safe and great climb this weekend; see ya when I see ya.
~L