3rd Annual Western North Carolina Flyathlon

In 2009, my twin brother and I were both diagnosed with thyroid cancer.

Thankfully, we both recovered.

Since then, we’ve made it a tradition to do something each year to celebrate life — actively. We try to mark that gratitude by pushing ourselves physically and getting outside into creation. Over the years, that’s meant running across the Grand Canyon, completing the Boston Marathon together, and spending many days fishing—reminding ourselves just how good it is to be alive.

We know our story could have been different. Many people don’t get the outcome we did.

So each year, what we do is both a celebration and a remembrance—giving thanks for what we’ve been given, and honoring those who have faced harder roads.

This year, we’re taking that tradition to the Western North Carolina Flyathlon—together.

Participants trail run through the mountains of Western North Carolina and stop to fly fish along the way. But what makes this event truly meaningful is its purpose.

The Flyathlon raises money for coldwater conservation, with a focus on protecting the Southern Appalachian brook trout—one of the region’s most iconic native species.

This one hits especially close to home for me.

I live here in Western North Carolina and spend a lot of time fishing these waters. Last year, I was excited to see brook trout return to some of my home streams. That’s not something I take for granted—it’s a sign that these ecosystems can recover when they’re cared for well.

And it’s exactly why I want to help.

Funds raised go through Running Rivers, which has raised nearly $1 million over the past decade for native fish and watershed conservation across the country—including projects right here in North Carolina. Their mission is to protect these waters by building a community of people who care enough to steward them.

That’s something I’m proud to be part of.

If you feel led, I’d be grateful for your support.

Your donation will go directly toward conserving these streams, protecting native brook trout, and ensuring that these places—and experiences—are there for future generations.

This event is about celebrating life, giving thanks, and investing in something that matters.

Thank you for being part of it.

Running Rivers firmly believes that the best way to ensure the preservation, protection, and maintenance of our irreplaceable public lands, waters, and native fish is to develop and foster the stewards who will stand up in their defense. By participating in this Flyathlon event and raising money for the Southern Appalachian brook trout, I am part of this important mission. 

And while they are a Colorado-based 501(c)(3), rest assured that funds raised through the WNC Flyathlon will be spent on projects in North Carolina!!!

Thank you for considering supporting my Flyathlon fundraiser!