10/16/2026
🚵♂️⛑️ BEYOND THE RIDE | ALWAYS BE PREPARED
An incredible weekend in Santa Cruz, California, recertifying my Wilderness First Responder (WFR) with Backcountry Medical Guides (BMG) at the beautiful Wilder Ranch State Park! 🌲🌊
From CPR and patient assessments to concussions, fractures, trauma management, and real-world trail emergencies, this hands-on course reinforced the importance of being prepared when things go wrong in the backcountry.
Huge thanks to our instructors, Adam, with 30+ years of firefighter and EMT experience, and Charlie Hughes, an EMT with emergency medical experience. Their knowledge and instruction were invaluable!
I also had the pleasure of meeting Jen, a NICA team director serving the Santa Clara–Palo Alto area, and her husband, an avid mountain biker and amputee whose passion for the sport was truly inspiring. Alongside a retired physician, an RN, and other outdoor enthusiasts, the shared experience made this course even more rewarding.
And what better location than Wilder Ranch? Incredible coastal scenery and trails ranging from beginner to advanced. 🚵♂️
For anyone visiting Santa Cruz, the Promenade Resort is a fantastic premium stay while exploring the area’s world-class riding.
I can’t recommend Backcountry Medical Guides enough to fellow riders, coaches, guides, and outdoor adventurers.
Massive thanks to BMG, Adam, Charlie, and everyone involved for another outstanding experience! 🙌
Being a great rider is one thing. Knowing what to do when someone needs your help is another.
Ride hard. Explore further. Be prepared. 🤘