Team Summer Adventures: Keith Rodney

Catch up with PSIA-AASI National Team members as they share their summer adventures and how it keeps them on their game for winter. Here’s how PSIA Telemark Team member Keith Rodney spent his summer.

What did you do this summer?

People are continuing to move to the ski areas in vast numbers following the “Live where you play and work remotely” mentality. As a location builder in my area, we have been crazy busy. I spent many hours creating new additions, decks, and other goodies for new homeowners.

I spend my free time in the play and exercise zone. SUP is my main activity, but I have also spent time at running events both participating and cheering on my wife.

What’s been your go-to summer activity or big summer adventure?

This year has been a big SUP season for me. A few years ago I started racing, mostly flat water, although sometimes it doesn’t feel flat. SUP racing has given me a focus for training and fitness.

Why is this one of your favorite activities in the offseason?

SUP and SUP racing is currently one of my main activities outside of work. It’s hard to describe the feeling of gliding through the water. Another benefit occurs while paddling: my mind goes quiet and allows me to relax. While paddling I only think of the paddle.

What did you learn?

Going from a recreational SUP paddler to racing has opened my eyes to how the environment impacts my balance. This learning curve comes from the fact that I have little control of the water, wind, and waves. I find that racing SUP has helped give me a focus for training and fitness.

How does this keep you physically and mentally engaged in the offseason?

The benefits for me to race SUP and running events are the short-term goals that help drive my motivation to continue to train. As for mental fitness, I have had the honor of helping work on many task forces (children’s, teaching, telemark, and cross country). These task force groups have mentally helped me keep going all summer. When not doing this, I’m managing my carpentry business.