A Conversation with Neal Beidleman
Neal Beidleman is an avid outdoor enthusiast and renowned mountaineer who has climbed many of the world’s tallest mountains, including Mount Everest. Additionally, he has achieved a multitude of athletic awards, such as winning 2nd place in the Wasatch 100-mile run. Many of Neal’s photographs can be seen in Newsweek, National Geographic, Denver Post and at www.skithe14ers.com. He is the author of Aspen Ski and Snowboard Guidebook and he resides in Colorado with his family where he works as an aerospace engineer.
Zappos: What can people do to make their first outdoor sport experience fun and safe, thus encouraging them to give the sport another try?
NB: It’s very important to have a good first experience in any pursuit. Educate yourself so that you don’t find yourself cold or with an acute injury or in a dangerous situation. Go with a guide, professional or a friend with experience. Get good gear. Don’t try to do it with inadequate gear. In other words, don’t go skiing in jeans. You won’t have fun.
Zappos: How important is it to seek the assistance of professionals, such as instructors and guides, when starting a new outdoor sport?
NB: Totally important. It doesn’t even have to be a professional with whom revenue exchanges hands. It can be an experienced friend or mentor, as long as you are respectful of their experience and what they have to say. You’ll learn quickly and will develop a great relationship with this person who will instill in you great experiences.
Zappos: Is there such a thing as too much too soon when it comes to outdoor sports and adventures? What tips do you have for someone who has decided that he/she is ready to give a strenuous sport, such as mountaineering, a try?
NB: You want to approach this with respect. I see a lot of people who go too big too soon. It’s really important to be fairly analytical. It takes a lot of time, preparation, practice and training. Once you realize a level of understanding of your sport, then you can take more risks.
Zappos: What great outdoor adventure do you have planned next for yourself?
NB: Chris Davenport just completed climbing and skiing all 54 of Colorado’s 14-ers and I did the last one with him. He’s a long-time friend. It was pretty exciting. I love to ski and mountaineer. I have other ideas [for future adventures] with Chris, but I like to keep them to myself.
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