About
The Full Story
Raised in the waves of coastal Carolina, Joe developed a deep connection with the natural world from an early age. Before settling down in the Vail Valley, oceanic curiosity took Joe around the world surfing and diving in the waters of exotic locations such as G-Land Indonesia and Valparaiso Chile. An Eagle county local for over 15 years, the mountains soon became home where Joe could surf the Earth.
From classic splitboard descents such as Holy Cross couloir to podiums at local XC MTB series, he will ride long after dark. An interest in his own health and wellness lead him down the nursing path, eventually specializing in Emergency Nursing.
Curious for a new challenge, Joe dove all in to Xterra triathlon over the 2023 and 2024 seasons. Earning a slot into the Italy world championships after a first place age group finish on Vancouver Island's notoriously technical trails, triathlon was a natural. fit. The world champs slot sparked a light bulb idea; Italy could kick off a year of chasing an Endless Summer just like his favorite film from childhood. With his wife / best friend by his side, Joe and Nell took a hiatus from full-time work ...put their belongings in storage and set off to Italy.
Over the course of seven months, the two of them visited several different countries in both Europe and the South Pacific including Portugal, France, Fiji and New Zealand. With bikes and boards and tow the duo hiked, pedaled, and surfed at some of the most world-renowned and inspiring locations around the world. What struck Joe the most about these destinations were the communities that revolved around the sport. Most impacted by the youth riders of New Zealand, Joe had the opportunity to hop in a few sessions with the local squads.
Capped by a week-long Backcountry Enduro race in Nelson, where everything that could go wrong did, Joe persevered and finished the upper half the extended finishers. Walking away with bruises and a beat-up bike, Joe is more inspired than ever to bring this sense of freedom and community back to his hometown and especially to young riders looking for an outlet. He believes riding isn't an escape as much as it is a way to experience the world.
