By: Dan Kosick - IronHike Ambassador and - Double Dome (Kuwohi) Finisher

I rarely say “no” to a new experience. As a cancer survivor which resulted in the amputation of my right leg above the knee I adopted the mentality of living life without limitations and that every obstacle is an opportunity. Since becoming an amputee at the age of 15, I have spent the last 32 years crushing goals, getting my ass kicked and embracing the suck. In October of 2024, Ironhike was another obstacle or should I say opportunity that I embraced because it fell in line with who I am.

For the past 32 years, I have uncomfortably listened to people tell me I am an inspiration for becoming a dedicated athlete after my amputation. It started with returning to high school sports such as swimming and lacrosse. Then I pursued the passion of alpine ski racing which resulted in being a member of the U.S. Adaptive Alpine Ski Team from 1997-2002 and represented our country in two Paralympics (98 Nagano, Japan and 02 Salt Lake City, Utah).

After a few years of laying low and raising my family I returned to endurance events in 2011. I found myself “inspiring” others as I became the first above knee amputee to ever complete 50 miles at World's Toughest Mudder, climbing a 20,000’ volcano in Ecuador for an organization that help provide prosthetics to amputees in 3rd world countries, completing several of our countries hardest day hikes such as the iconic rim to rim to rim (R2R2R) at the Grand Canyon and most recently my completion of the Double Kuwohi challenge at IronHike. My goal isn’t to be an inspiration, just a kick ass person that is seen as an athlete first and then maybe also notice I’m kicking it on one leg, but I do find motivation in knowing that I have that influence on others.

As for IronHike, it was what I considered a perfect opportunity! It provided a beautiful venue, well organized and all the opportunities I needed to make it a perfect suck! You quickly realize you are being invited into a community that is welcoming, encouraging and filled with amazing stories by amazing humans. The event was kicked off by a rendition of the Star Spangled Banner that would compete with the Super Bowl. Soon after we all began our march up and down the ski slope at our own individual paces. Depending on your event, physical capabilities and current motivation you could easily find another IronHiker at your same pace if you were alone and wanted the company. Personally, I enjoy the “me time” but found fun ways to interact with other hikers as we would cross paths with each other 2-3 times every hour.

What I found very impressive was the group of volunteers that hung out in the pit area and made sure every IronHiker received a good cheer at the completion of every lap. I always felt supported and surrounded by positive people who wanted nothing more than to make your IronHike experience the best it could be. To anyone who is considering doing this event but doesn't have anyone to share the experience with, I can guarantee you can show up alone but you’ll never feel alone. I packed up my belongings around 2 AM in the morning and said goodbye to the volunteers who continued to sit around the fire and share positive vibes with all the athletes who were pushing through the night. I can’t say enough about how welcomed and supported I felt from the moment I arrived to my early morning departure. If I didn’t have other commitments I would have enjoyed greatly hanging around with the company. If you are thinking about doing an IronHike, stop thinking and start living, just do it! You won’t regret the opportunity, challenge and personal growth the event provides.

Dan