"As a student growing up in the 70s and early 80s, my definition of “athlete” was reserved for those who played team sports, were trained by coaches, competed for medals, and earned varsity letters. I played recreational softball, floor hockey, and had a short stint on the high school swim team. These activities did not make me an “athlete”. However, as an adult, my view of what an athlete is began to change as I embarked on one of my most rewarding athletic challenges. I set a goal to become an Adirondack 46er, by climbing the forty-six highest peaks in the Adirondack Mountain range.

Meeting this challenge would require climbing both trailed and trail-less peaks. When my brother agreed to take me and others up Mt. Marcy one summer, I didn’t realize I was beginning a quest that would span 25 years. It would include multiple hiking companions (both human and dog), two pairs of hiking boots, varying weather conditions, a few scary incidents that forced me to face some fears, and glorious views of the most beautiful land and waterways in the Adirondack Mountains. In August 2013, I completed my 46th peak, Mt. Allen, and officially became an ADK 46er. At a celebration dinner in Lake Placid in May of 2014, I was awarded my hiking number, #8046. No varsity letter, no medal…but a very special number. I felt a deep sense of pride, along with a forever love of the beauty and grandeur of these mountains, and I had a changed view of what an athlete is.

For me, “athlete” is synonymous with the word “active”.  I had been an athlete my whole life, because I was active and had achieved my personal goals. I’m currently working on completing the Adirondack & Catskill Mt. Fire Tower Challenge. I hope to be an athlete for the rest of my life. A heartfelt “thank you” to those who have and will support me along this journey."

Diane Huot

Literacy Specialist Teacher

Plank South Elementary

It was a wonderful experience joining Diane in the Adirondacks (along with my husband) where we camped, hiked and enjoyed Lake Placid. If you've never travelled to this area of New York, you need to. It's gorgeous!

For additional information on the Adirondack 46ers organization Click here.

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