The community is invited to The Adventure Summit, a biennial celebration of outdoor culture, skill and experience. The 2020 event will be held Friday, Feb. 14, from 5 to 9 p.m. and Saturday, Feb. 15, from 9 to 6 p.m. in the Wright State University Student Union.
Produced by Five Rivers MetroParks and Wright State University, the Summit features more than 40 inspirational speakers, an outdoor adventure expo, social events, clinics and competitions. Admission and parking are free.
“The Adventure Summit gives the public a chance to plan outdoor adventures, connect with local resources, participate in competitions, and be inspired by your neighbors and some of the world’s best adventurers,” said MetroParks special events coordinator, Angela York.
This year will highlight three featured speakers:
- Heather “Anish” Anderson (presenting on Thursday, Feb. 14, at 8 p.m.): A 2019 National Geographic Adventurer of the Year, Anderson is the first female to complete the triple crown (Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail and Continental Divide Trail) in one year.
- Ryan Richardson (presenting on Saturday, Feb. 15, at noon): A 2019 winner of the prestigious John Lauchlan Memorial Award, Richardson is a climber focused on the development of new routes in wild places.
- Maureen “Mo” Beck (presenting on Saturday, Feb. 15, at 5 p.m.): A 2019 National Geographic Adventurer of the Year, Beck was born without her left hand and has been changing the world of adaptive climbing since she was 12. She has four national titles and was the gold medal winner at the Paraclimbing World Championships in 2014 and 2016.
Additionally, regional and local presenters will share stories from their adventures abroad and tell participants how to use local outdoor recreation amenities to adventure in your backyard. Speakers also will provide tips and on how to improve your outdoor experiences.
Brad Ryan, who made national news after he embarked on a bucket-list excursion to all 61 national parks with his grandma, will share stories about their adventures. An Ohio native, Joy Ryan (Grandma Joy) had never seen a mountain or the ocean in her 85 years before she and Ryan crossed the country during this once-in-a-lifetime trip .
Hear from those who embarked on out-of-state adventures, including:
- Lynn Mishler: Biking the Danube from Germany to Austria
- Brent Devitt: Sauntering on a cycle across America
- Emmy Fabich and Katie Norris: Honeymoon adventure traveling in New Zealand
- Jordan Hart and Camee Decknadel: Biking the Katy Trail
- John and LaNae Abnet: Kayak the Heartland — paddle expedition
Learn how to adventure locally and build your skills during many talks, including:
- Brent Anslinger, Randy Ryberg, Jordan Hart, Chris Buck: Bicycle touring in and through the Miami Valley
- Amber and Kelby Dieking: Backpacking with young children
- Rob Crawford: Improve your image: outdoor photos
- Shannon Thomas and Jake Brown: River Surf USA
- Heather Mulhauser: Strong and steady feet for hikers and runners: stretching exercises
Visit the adventuresummit.com/presentations for the full schedule.
Summit attendees are invited to the Summit Soiree on Friday, Feb. 14, from 6:30 to 8 p.m. Enjoy food and drink with fellow event goers and featured speakers. Admission is $12/person; space is limited and though registration is not required it is suggested. Tickets may be available at the door.
After Anderson’s presentation on Friday evening, participants also are invited to the Party with the Pros, held at the Wandering Griffin in Beavercreek where some of the speakers will be available for socializing.
To stay up to date on event activities, speakers and exhibitors, visit www.theadventuresummit.com/.
The Adventure Summit is presented by Wagner Subaru. The Summit Soiree and Party with the Pros are sponsored by Great Lakes Brewing Co.
ABOUT WRIGHT STATE UNIVERSITY
The mission of Wright State University is to transform the lives of its students and the communities it serves. The university is committed to achieving learning outcomes through innovative, high-quality programs for all students: undergraduate, graduate and professional; conducting scholarly research and creative endeavors; and engaging in significant community service. To learn more about Wright State University, visit www.wright.edu.
ABOUT FIVE RIVERS METROPARKS
Celebrating more than 50 years of preserving green space and natural areas, Five Rivers MetroParks is a nationally renowned park system composed of natural area parks, gardens, high-quality river corridors, urban parks and a network of recreation trails. Five Rivers MetroParks protects the region’s natural heritage and provides outdoor experiences that inspire a personal connection with nature. Educational programs and recreational opportunities are offered year-round for all ages. Five Rivers MetroParks is accredited by the Commission for Accreditation of Park and Recreation Agencies. To learn more about Five Rivers MetroParks, log onto www.metroparks.org or call 937-275-PARK (7275).