[at-l] Re: Food chain?

[russ.drake at navy.mil (Drake, Russ SKCM NAVSUP)]

  Icon or no icon, if you need an icon to look up to for backpacking then where is the theory of "Hike your own hike"?   If you are looking for people who have accomplished great things in backpacking there are a few.    But Icons?  I don't place anyone in an icon status but I think everyone has something to share with another hiker.  Some more than others...  Be it a recipe, hiking pole tips, trail advice or even just a little guidance on getting better equipment.   

  I do think some hikers would like to think they are Icons but in reality they are just hiking their own hike for their own reasons.  Competition on the trail.. yes there is competition on the trail but the greatest challenger a hiker has is themselves.   For example... I am not the fastest nor do I hike the furthest.  So I challenge myself to hike a little bit faster and maybe to the next shelter.  The competition is with me and seeing what I can accomplish.

  Sparky!