Climbing for "Buzz": Mt. Washington 2026
On Saturday, August 15, 2026, I will be cycling up the Mt. Washington Auto Road, a 7.6 mile all-uphill race to the summit of the highest peak in the northeastern United States. Many people consider this the steepest cycling race in the world thanks to it's 12% average grade. And while the physical challenge of this mountain is both exciting and intimidating, my motivation to make it to the top comes from a personal place. I'm taking on this race to carry forward my dad’s legacy of environmental stewardship and to channel the same strength he showed throughout his life and his battle with ALS.
A Full-Circle Summit
In August 2014, my dad (trailname "Buzz") and I stood together at the top of the Mt. Washington summit. We were about ~1,800 miles into our 5 month thru-hike of the Appalachian Trail, having just completed the challenging 5.5-mile hike up 3,000ft of elevation to get there. This was the hike my dad had been looking forward to the most on our thru-hike, and returning to this peak almost exactly 12 years later to complete the same climb, now on a bike, feels like a perfect tribute to that adventure and my dad, my favorite climb partner.
In Honor of Jerry "Buzz" Travers
I am taking on this bike climb in honor of my father, Jerry Travers, who passed away in June 2025 after a 21-month battle with ALS.
Jerry lived his life by the Scout Law. An Eagle Scout himself, he served as Scoutmaster of Troop 434 for 26 years, during which he hosted many a bike-a-thon fundraisers himself. His commitment to the environment was incredible, logging thousands of volunteer hours with organizations such as Trees Atlanta, the Georgia Conservancy, Park Pride, and the Keep Georgia Beautiful Foundation. Whether he was clearing invasive plants or leading boy scouts on camping trips, my dad believed in leaving the world better than he found it.
Supporting Tin Mountain Conservation Center
To continue my dad's legacy of environmental mentorship and stewardship, I'm fundraising for the Tin Mountain Conservation Center (TMCC).
For over 34 years, TMCC has provided environmental education to over 75,000 students and campers. Their mission to foster "future stewards of the environment" is a perfect reflection of my dad’s 26 years in Scouting. He believed that nature has the power to transform lives, and TMCC ensures that the next generation gets that same opportunity.
Please help me support this mission. Every donation helps further TMCC’s work in schools and communities, ensuring that the spirit of "Buzz", his relentless optimism and love for the trail, continues to inspire others.
Thank you for being part of this climb with me!