Patrick Penne
As a longtime native of Southern Wisconsin, I grew up hiking, ice skating, cross country skiing, and camping in the Driftless region. Despite my current path as a climber, I was always overly cautious and afraid of heights when growing up -- I stayed faaarrrr away from climbing. Although I didn't care for rock climbing, I did love geology, and collected more rocks and fossils than reason would dictate. Being from Driftless region also instilled an interest in natural sciences in the environment that has persisted to this day.
After graduating high school, I studied geological engineering at UW-Madison. During my time there, a childhood friend at a different university invited me on a combing climbing/mountain biking/camping trip to the Upper Peninsula. Aside from my vaguely-outdoorsy background, I am not sure why he invited me, nor why I said 'yes' to such a trip (I was, and still am, a timid mountain biker).
Regardless, I am glad I did, since I have had a love for climbing ever since. Overcoming the mental and physical challenges it poses has been profoundly rewarding, and has had a positive impact on my life outside of climbing. For instance, I am no longer (as) afraid of heights! It has brought me to new places, introduced me to dear friends, created new confidence, and given me a passion to wholeheartedly pursue in life. I always look forward to sharing climbing with others due to the deep joy it has brought me.
In my non-climbing free time I enjoy trail running, reading, socializing with friends, and eating lots (lots!) of food.
I hope to see you at the Lake!