Team Summer Adventures: Mike Hafer

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 Alpine Team member Mike Hafer spent his summer.

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

This summer has been all about family. We celebrated my mother-in-law’s 80th birthday in Cancun, Mexico. It was an amazing and fun filled week. The trip reminded me of how much I enjoy traveling and spending time with family.

There are two highlights from the week that really stand out. The first was a deep-sea fishing trip that started off slow and ended on a high when we landed an 84 inch sailfish. It took four of us about a half hour to get it into the boat.

The second was a snorkeling trip with sea turtles that included a tour of a cenote in the jungle. A cenote is a cave or sinkhole where fresh water erodes the limestone. We swam in the pitch-black cave, which was a bit unnerving and exciting all the same.

In addition to traveling, my go-to summer activity is biking, both road and mountain. It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors and stay in shape.

I also assisted with a few tech talks during the summer to help others prepare for the upcoming season. I am always pleased to see the energy in all the participants and how excited everyone is for the snow to fly.

Why was this on your to-do list?

The trip to Mexico has been on my list for quite some time. When we had an excuse of celebrating a birthday, it all came together. I love the warm water and sunshine.

What did you learn?

It is important to strive for balance between family and my passion for skiing. The time away from the mountains always re-energizes me for the upcoming season. The time hanging out with my wife and kids teaches me patience and hopefully a thing or two about communication (both kids are now teenagers)!

How does riding your bikes keep you physically and mentally engaged in the offseason?

I tend to ride on my own. I enjoy the wind in my face and the area I live in. The scenery never gets old. I focus on the ride and that allows me to relax. I like to challenge myself physically and love to see the results come in at the end of the summer.

As for the mental engagement, the tech talks keep me mentally engaged. I feel like there is always someone out there who challenges my knowledge in a positive way and the research to answer their question helps me prepare for the upcoming winter.