Yesterday I heard terrible news about the loss of a friend and fellow Trail Monster who was killed in a car accident in Colorado. Chris Douglass was just about to embark on a 2,500 mile walk from Colorado to Maine which was to be the latest in a life full of fun and adventure.
Sun Journal story
I first met Chris in the summer of 2006 on the summit of Bradbury Mountain. He had heard about our running group, and although he arrived late headed out on the trails to track us down. That summer we enjoyed many runs and I was grateful for the sense of joy and adventure that Chris brought to the group. I'll never forget the way Chris would run full steam through puddles and ankle-deep mud when others would skirt around the edges looking for an easier route. To me that seemed to represent the way Chris lived his life, throwing caution to the wind and charging head on into an adventure, from the Vermont 50 to the Dublin Marathon, driving his motorcycle from Maine to Arizona and his latest plan to walk from Colorado to Maine.
Although his life ended tragically early I try to take some comfort in the fact that Chris lived life to the fullest and brought joy to the lives of many.
As a tribute to Chris I have decided to dedicate the Bradbury Scuffle trail race to his memory. Following the race I would like to invite any of his friends and family to join me on the climb to the summit of Bradbury Mountain to say goodbye.
Emma and I have also decided to run the Vermont 50 Mile Ultra Run in his memory. This was Chris' first ultramarathon and I know that he was planning to run it again this year.
"The only things you live to regret are the risks you didn't take"
4 comments:
Thank you so much for your kind words. Chris has been my best friend since we were kids. Him and I had been working on the site, SmallWorldTreks.net togther, trying to get it ready for his trip. It is a tragedy that we've lost such an amazing and passionate person.
The dedications mean so much.
Thank you,
Glen Giasson
I read of the accident in today's PPH. What a shame. A real tragedy at such a young age. Ian, you're a good friend to pay tribute to Chris. I hope to join you on that day.
Rodger Smith
Ian,
I am so sorry to hear about the loss of your friend. Our thoughts are with you and his family. But what a wonderful way to celebrate his life with your dedication of the Scuffle to his memory.
-Sparkplug/Danielle
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