Dad at Play
Dennie on the trails living the spirit of Advanced Recess.
Dennie McGarry is a good friend and neighbor of mine and there is rarely a day that I don’t see him riding one of his bikes by, with a smile and a beer in his hand. He’s either on his way to the trails to venture to “Beer Rock” or on his way back down. He’s truly one of the most relaxed, happy and easy-going people around and his love for all facets of outdoor play is admired and appreciated by all of his friends and neighbors. Dennie comes from a career where play was a significant part of it as he was Director of Camping in Colorado for the Boy Scouts of America. His career has formally transitioned to something else since having that role but his love of play has remained consistent and his number one favorite form of play these days is spending time in the great outdoors with his three daughters. Often times I see them leaving early in the morning for all day ski adventures, heading into the trails together for backpacking excursions or preparing for adventures in the wilderness such as biking the 401 Trail in Creste Butte with one of his daughters. He’s doing an amazing job sharing his love of play with his girls and, indeed, he’s creating a whole family culture of Advanced Recess. A+ at Play, indeed!
Here’s more with Dennie…
Describe a little about yourself:
Father of three girls, love the outdoors.
What do you do for play?
Biking, Camping, Fishing, Skiing, Hiking, Backpacking - even better when it is with my girls.
How does play motivate you in your life?
Personally, every day is an adventure. Collectively for the family, wanting to get outside and play is a major part of our family activities.
How do you benefit from it?
That sense of euphoria and peace that might be comparable to a runner that achieve's the runner's high.
When you think of your ideal day spent playing, what is it?
It's not just the play itself. For example, not just the biking, but the biking in beautiful stunning areas of the country like a Moab or Crested Butte.
We agree, Dennie! Keep creating a welcoming environment of play and adventure for your girls! It’s awesome to have people like you so dedicated to getting girls out into the wilderness. Thank you for your spirit of play. You truly embody the spirit fo Advanced Recess!\
PS: Sidenote…When I explain to people the neighborhood I live in, I immediately bring up Dennie’s Instagram feed. No one does a better job showcasing our trail system. If you love seeing awesome pictures of trails, check him out @dmcgarry22
Dennie out on the trails with one of his daughters.
Dad/Daughter ride!
