I developed a love for the outdoors as a youngster. A few family camping trips and the passion was ignited. Nothing compares to the peace of the backcountry.
We were living in Abbotsford in the late 90s and saw there was a need for an outdoor gear store. So why not start one? One meeting with David Harley and a visit to one of the original Valhalla Pure stores made for a quick realization that VPO was a quality group of people who I wanted to be a part of.
Twenty plus years later there are more stores and now two that belong to Lorraine and I. Vernon was a great choice since it also is the home to our son's business - Base Camp Chiropractic and Sports Rehab. We get to work with the same great active group.
The outdoor industry allows me to meet the most amazing people doing the most amazing adventures. Early on I realised the most difficult part would be not being able to hide out in a customers backpack as they headed out discovering the natural beauty abroad and in our own backyard.
When your work day involves seeing the latest and greatest gear known and then getting the opportunity to "product test" it - what could be better. Whether its ski touring, backpacking, day hiking, ski touring, snowshoeing or heading to foreign lands to explore, it's all adventures I am up to enjoy.
Favourite Outdoor Activities:
Hike, Paddleboard, Kayak, Run, Ski, Backcountry Ski, Camping, Trekking, Backpacking, Fishing
Coffee or Tea:
Tea
Favourite Piece of Gear?
So many
What is on your playlist right now?
Eclectic music - everything except baroque
Best Childhood Memory?
Hiking mountains in southern Alberta (Waterton) as a young boy.
Favourite Adventure to Date?
So many - trekking in Iceland - Laugavegur trail. Kayaking north of Quadra Island
What is on your list of adventures this season?
Week long kayak trip, week long fishing trip, many local hikes, travel to Europe, New Brunswick and a glacier trek
If you could travel to any country, where would you go?
Whichever one I can get tickets to first.
