Light The Fire Within!

September 11th, 2004

Dear Supporters,

Last year, we had fog and snow during the Pikes Peak Challenge. The hike took us 10 hours. This year, our 4th ascent, we had the most gorgeous day with nice weather and temperature! The hike took us 8 1/2 hours. The trail was rugged, steep, rocky, uneven and nonetheless scenic.

In the February 2002 Olympics, I walked with the torch. The theme of the torchbearers was "Light the Fire Within". I felt this name was appropriate for my team.

The team members who summited were: Betsy Cuthertson, Mike Cuthbertson, K.K. Skulski, Lynn Renard, Nancy Burke, Phil Huff, Kristy Huff, Jack Ellsworth, Mike Rex, Pam McCain Cochran, Rob Mitchell, Freda Neiters, Joe Neiters, Julie Kelble and myself.

Shauna sent us off in the wee hours of the morning and my sister Kay and brother in-law, Tom, were cheering on the top. They had it easier than us, as they took the cog train to the summit!

The trail is 13 = miles long, starting at an elevation of approximately 6,650 feet and reaching 14,110 feet at the summit. We hiked up many switchbacks. My last 2 miles climb felt hard and tough.

Team "Light the Fire Within" met and surpassed their fundraising goal. Thank you very much for your generosity. Your pledges not only support the Brian Injury Association of Colorado. These pledges also allow me to continue valuable therapies. To look at photos go to: www.pattymactwister.org

Fondly,
Pat
9-23-04

Slideshows of the 2004 climb:Pats Camera, Cousin Mikes Camera, Rob's camera and Tom's camera and his collection of portrait shots are here. Mike Cuthbertson's camera shots are here.

August 11th, 2004 - 5 years later! a story in the Desert News

Pike's Peak Challenge 2003, story and photos

Summit Daily Story about Pat, September 11, 2004