When we postponed 29029 Idaho, our whole team was gutted. As I know, many of you were. The three 29029 event weekends are my favorite weekends of the year. While it wasn't possible to come together in person, our team was determined to come together in a meaningful way, while apart. Our first mandate was, this can't be 'just another virtual race.' One of the things that stand 29029 apart is the people. You, our participants, are extraordinary people. And given a choice, many of you decided to keep moving forward, take on an unknown challenge and see what you could accomplish on your terms.
To witness how you all came together, to foster the sense of community that we hold so dearly, was nothing short of outstanding. The current climate and the impact of COVID19 have been challenging for us all. And through it, we've had one thing. Each other. And that will never change. I encourage you to continue to lean into the challenges and to keep climbing. The stories that came from the Idaho Virtual Event confirm that we can all do more than we think we can. You proved that to yourself and me. Please enjoy the recap of this memorable weekend below.
I'll see you on the mountain. - Marc Hodulich, CEO, 29029
29029 is an event where there is no declared winner. No one really cares who did it the fastest, how far you went, or how long it took you. It's always been about setting a goal, and doing everything you can, to achieve that goal. To do more than you thought you could.
The only pre-requisite for success in the Idaho Virtual Event is looking at yourself in the mirror and asking a straightforward question. "Did I give an honest effort?"
We came together — the best way we know how.
For 36 hours, as a community, we committed to give our very best effort. For this, is a community of doers. And no matter your location across the globe. You found a way.
Inside or outside. On a mountain or on city streets. Through rain, heat, and wind.
You found a way.
A special moment at every 29029 event is when you brand the Ascent Board. The smell of the burning wood is a memory that stands out for many participants.
Virtually, your creativity knew no bounds. Paint, spreadsheets, water balloon targets, we saw it all.
One thing is for certain, the smell will mean a lot more come June, 2021.
Through good times and bad.
Through 29029 feet and beyond.
We often see 29029 having an immeasurable impact on your life and the lives of those around you. Never is that truer than when you take on the journey together.
Shawn and Jackie found a way to reach Everest in the midst of parenting two kids, Maggie and Brian celebrated their 16th anniversary in the Sawtooth Mountains. Mary and Dennis explored new trails, in their own backyard. Jen and Thomas climbed together, side-by-side. Jen and Noah rallied a group in Atlanta to support and motivate each other as they moved for 20 + hours.
Climb together on a journey to 29029 feet, and stay married. That's couple goals!
We seen many iterations of themed gondolas at 29029. The Positivity Gondy, The Disco Gondy and now The Virtual Gondy.
There's no doubting the fact that Zoom saved many weekends. The ability to come together to seek inspiration, motivation, share tips, offer advice and to just be, was invaluable.
We often say that the bonds forged by mutual suffering are unbreakable. It's now clear those bonds can be formed no matter the distance. Does it have the same impact as a pat on the back and a much-needed hug? No. But it was the next best thing. Who's up for some impromptu Virtual Gondy moments over the next 12 months?
1,050 hours moved.
1,574,688 vertical feet climbed.
2,950 miles covered.
79% of participants reached 29029.
Just wait and see what we achieve together in Sun Valley, Idaho. June 2021.
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