Sidecountry

1. Sidecountry: Exploring Life's Edges Beyond the Familiar

It is a place just outside the controlled parts of a ski area—not quite the backcountry, but beyond the ropes and wild enough.

Defining the Sidecountry. The term "sidecountry" encapsulates the author's approach to storytelling: venturing just beyond the well-trodden paths to explore the raw, untamed aspects of sports and life. It's about finding adventure in the spaces that offer an illusion of safety while still demanding courage and resilience. This concept serves as a metaphor for the entire collection, highlighting stories that are both accessible and profoundly challenging.

Beyond the Spectacle. The author's interest lies not in the fame or the audience size, but in the human stories that unfold in these less-explored territories. These are the narratives that reveal deeper truths about the human spirit, the kind that often go unnoticed amidst the clamor of mainstream sports coverage. This approach seeks to uncover the unexpected, providing readers with stories they didn't know they wanted to read.

A Quest for Meaning. The author's work is driven by a desire to find meaning in smaller, more intimate stories. This involves a deliberate choice to focus on individuals and communities that are often overlooked, giving voice to their experiences and highlighting the universal themes of struggle, perseverance, and the search for connection. It's about finding the extraordinary within the ordinary.

2. The Essence of a Story: People Tangled in the Extraordinary

That is what all these stories have in common—what all good stories have in common: they are about ordinary people tangled in something extraordinary.

The Human Core. At the heart of every compelling story are ordinary individuals grappling with extraordinary circumstances. It's not about fame or fortune, but about the internal rewards that come from pushing personal limits. These are tales of people daring to persist, to venture, to confront, and to believe, simply for the sake of it.

Internal Rewards. The individuals in these stories are driven by internal motivations, not external recognition. Their quests are personal, their battles fought within themselves, and their victories measured by their own growth and understanding. This focus on intrinsic motivation sets these stories apart from typical sports narratives.

Universal Accessibility. These stories resonate because they tap into the universal human experience of facing challenges and striving for something more. Whether pulled by adventure or pushed by circumstance, we can all imagine ourselves stepping through these gates, confronting our own limits, and seeking our own form of deliverance.

3. The Power of Perspective: Time Hides the Writer's Anguish

Now, deep in my career, I’ve learned to remind myself that the reader knows nothing of the writer’s anxiety, but experiences each story fresh and open-minded.

Writer's Anxiety vs. Reader's Experience. The author reflects on the disconnect between the writer's internal struggles and the reader's fresh, unbiased experience of a story. Over time, the pain of writing fades, allowing the writer to appreciate their work more objectively. This realization highlights the importance of trusting the reader's ability to connect with the story, regardless of the writer's anxieties.

The Editing Paradox. The author grapples with the challenge of knowing when to stop editing, recognizing that over-tweaking can stifle the story's natural flow. There's a delicate balance between refining the work and overthinking it, and the author often chooses to file the story as an act of surrender rather than triumph.

Time as a Healer. The author finds that older stories often resonate more, as time obscures the frustrations and anxieties of the writing process. This distance allows for a more objective appreciation of the work, free from the internal doubts and pressures that plagued its creation.

4. Snow Fall: The Day a Mountain Moved, a Community Changed

The very thing the sixteen skiers and snowboarders had sought—fresh, soft snow—instantly became the enemy.

The Allure and Peril of the Sidecountry. The story of "Snow Fall" centers on a group of skiers and snowboarders venturing into the sidecountry, a seemingly safe area just outside a ski resort's boundaries. This setting highlights the deceptive nature of adventure, where the very thing sought—fresh powder—can quickly turn deadly.

Human vs. Nature. The avalanche serves as a stark reminder of nature's power and unpredictability. The story shifts from being about an avalanche to being about the people caught within it, emphasizing the human element in the face of natural disaster. This shift underscores the importance of understanding and respecting the forces of nature.

A Community's Loss. The avalanche claims the lives of three individuals, including a beloved member of the Stevens Pass community. The aftermath reveals the profound impact of the tragedy on the survivors, their families, and the tight-knit community of skiers and snowboarders. It's a story of grief, resilience, and the enduring bonds that connect people in the face of loss.

5. The Dawn Wall: Pursuing the Impossible, One Hold at a Time

If they get it completed, it will be the hardest completed rock climb in the world.

The Audacity of the Dream. Tommy Caldwell and Kevin Jorgeson's attempt to free climb the Dawn Wall of El Capitan embodies the human spirit's relentless pursuit of the seemingly impossible. Their years-long dedication, training, and repeated failures highlight the extraordinary commitment required to achieve such a monumental goal.

Partnership and Perseverance. The story emphasizes the importance of partnership and unwavering perseverance in the face of adversity. Caldwell and Jorgeson's collaboration, their individual struggles, and their shared determination to overcome the Dawn Wall's challenges serve as an inspiration.

More Than Just a Climb. The Dawn Wall becomes a metaphor for life's challenges, demonstrating that success is not solely defined by reaching the summit, but by the journey, the lessons learned, and the bonds forged along the way. It's a testament to the power of optimism, dedication, and dreaming big.

6. Lost Brother: The High Cost of Adventure and the Bonds That Remain

Anywhere else you go is a compromise.

The Irresistible Call of the Wild. Dean Potter's passion for BASE jumping and wingsuit flying, particularly in Yosemite, highlights the allure of extreme sports and the desire to push personal limits. His tragic death underscores the inherent risks involved in such pursuits, where the line between exhilaration and disaster can be razor-thin.

A Community's Grief. The story explores the impact of Potter's death on his loved ones, particularly his girlfriend, Jen Rapp, and his fellow climbers. It reveals the deep bonds that connect individuals who share a passion for adventure and the unique challenges they face when tragedy strikes.

The Enduring Legacy. Despite the inherent dangers, the story acknowledges the beauty and spirituality that can be found in extreme sports. It celebrates the courage, skill, and dedication of those who dare to venture into the unknown, even when it comes at a high cost.

7. Triumph and Tragedy: The Thin Line Between Winning and Losing

I often wonder if the 300 game caused it, or it would have happened anyway.

The Unexpected Twist of Fate. The story of Don Doane, who bowls his first perfect game and then dies, highlights the unpredictable nature of life and the fine line between triumph and tragedy. It's a reminder that even in moments of great joy, sorrow can be lurking just around the corner.

Community Remembrance. The outpouring of support and remembrance for Doane underscores the importance of community and the impact that ordinary individuals can have on those around them. It's a celebration of a life well-lived, not just a death mourned.

The Enduring Power of Sport. Despite the tragic circumstances, the story celebrates the enduring power of sports to bring people together, create lasting memories, and provide a sense of belonging. It's a reminder that even in the face of loss, the spirit of competition and camaraderie can endure.

8. Enduring Traditions: Finding Meaning in the Face of Change

Hopi have that running blood in them. It’s up to us to find it and use it.

The Hopi Connection to Running. The story explores the deep cultural significance of running within the Hopi community, where it is seen as a form of prayer and a connection to ancestors. This tradition highlights the importance of preserving cultural heritage and finding meaning in ancient practices.

Balancing Tradition and Modernity. The story examines the challenges faced by the Hopi High cross-country team as they strive to maintain their winning streak while navigating the pressures of modern society. It's a struggle to balance tradition with the distractions and temptations of the outside world.

The Power of Sport to Unite. Despite the challenges, the story celebrates the power of sport to unite a community and instill values of perseverance, dedication, and teamwork. It's a reminder that even in the face of change, traditions can endure and provide a sense of identity and purpose.

9. The Human Element: Connecting Through Shared Experiences

It’s Chris Rudolph. You know? He’s the knight in shining armor of Stevens Pass.

The Importance of Human Connection. The author emphasizes the importance of human connection and empathy in storytelling. By focusing on the personal experiences and emotions of the individuals involved, the stories resonate more deeply with readers.

Finding Universality in Specificity. The author demonstrates the ability to find universal themes within specific, localized stories. By exploring the nuances of human behavior and the complexities of relationships, the stories transcend their immediate settings and speak to broader audiences.

The Power of Storytelling. The author's work serves as a testament to the power of storytelling to connect people, foster understanding, and inspire reflection. By sharing these stories, the author hopes to leave a lasting impact on readers, long after they've turned the final page.

Last updated: March 4, 2025