Supporting Partners
What’s inside:
Todd Update
New this Year: Adventure by HIKE
Marquette Trail Running Series: Adventure Your Way
PR26 – Polar Roll
Triple Crown: “I just want to see if I can do it.”
New on MADE U.P.
Monkey Loob: “I can’t imagine where I would be without these experiences.”
Become an Adventure Team Volunteer
Events with 906AT
Excerpt from the Mental Health Foundation:
“Adventure experiences for children are diverse. They might include forest schools, high ropes courses, adventurous play, camping, water sports, and climbing, amongst many other activities. Adventures range from once-in-a-lifetime experiences, to everyday adventures, accessible to all.”
Mark Rowland, Chief Executive of the Mental Health Foundation added, “Adventure helps to generate a range of positive emotions, including excitement, joy and wonder. It also helps to develop a healthy relationship to uncertainty. That is so important in boosting confidence and in children learning how to manage fear and anxiety.”
The key elements of adventure include:
Connection with nature
Physical activity
Unfamiliar experiences
Challenge and risk
Physiologically energized
Working together and
Supporting relationships
“Adventure experiences for children are diverse. They might include forest schools, high ropes courses, adventurous play, camping, water sports, and climbing, amongst many other activities. Adventures range from once-in-a-lifetime experiences, to everyday adventures, accessible to all.”
Mark Rowland, Chief Executive of the Mental Health Foundation added, “Adventure helps to generate a range of positive emotions, including excitement, joy and wonder. It also helps to develop a healthy relationship to uncertainty. That is so important in boosting confidence and in children learning how to manage fear and anxiety.”
The key elements of adventure include:
Connection with nature
Physical activity
Unfamiliar experiences
Challenge and risk
Physiologically energized
Working together and
Supporting relationships
From Todd Poquette, Director of Adventure:
More than 10,000 people receive this email every month. Several thousand more people are reached through social media. I want to challenge you. Each and every one of ya. Are ya ready? Here it goes… Help us put wonder back into childhood adventure and stop conditioning kids to be afraid of everything around them.
Instead of advocating for avoidance help us teach kids how to prepare for challenges, and overcome them. New experiences and the unknown shouldn’t scare us – they should excite us. Advocate instead for preparation, and learning how to properly asses risk. Let’s be real… If we are teaching kids to avoid every little thing that is scary and uncomfortable… What are we leaving them with? I’ll tell ya what I think it is… A phone, or a tablet, or an Xbox, or potentially more common and concerning, we’re leaving them with nothing but an empty room and anxiety.
This doesn’t have to become our legacy. We don’t have to be our kids hero. We need to give them the space to become the hero of their own story, and that should be enough for us.
Adventure: an unusual and exciting, typically hazardous, experience or activity.
You don’t have to threaten me with a good time 😉 See ya out there.
More than 10,000 people receive this email every month. Several thousand more people are reached through social media. I want to challenge you. Each and every one of ya. Are ya ready? Here it goes… Help us put wonder back into childhood adventure and stop conditioning kids to be afraid of everything around them.
Instead of advocating for avoidance help us teach kids how to prepare for challenges, and overcome them. New experiences and the unknown shouldn’t scare us – they should excite us. Advocate instead for preparation, and learning how to properly asses risk. Let’s be real… If we are teaching kids to avoid every little thing that is scary and uncomfortable… What are we leaving them with? I’ll tell ya what I think it is… A phone, or a tablet, or an Xbox, or potentially more common and concerning, we’re leaving them with nothing but an empty room and anxiety.
This doesn’t have to become our legacy. We don’t have to be our kids hero. We need to give them the space to become the hero of their own story, and that should be enough for us.
Adventure: an unusual and exciting, typically hazardous, experience or activity.
You don’t have to threaten me with a good time 😉 See ya out there.
New this year: Adventure by HIKE
906 Adventure Team in Marquette is piloting a new program this summer: Adventure Hike Club.
We’re starting with 50 spots on Wednesday nights from 6:00-8:00 PM at Tourist Park through the summer. This is a youth resilience program for kids 5-17 years old.
First hike: June 10
Last hike: August 19
Cost: $150
The concept mirrors that of Adventure Bike Club – create a space for kids to adventure and do hard things – surrounded by a community of leaders who support their personal path of growth and development. We’re taking everything about the bike program and bringing it to kids minus the bike. All the same core values: respect, effort, grit, consistency. Growth Mindset and the “Power of Yet.” You vs. You!
Registration opens April 18 – based on the response from the community, we expect spots will full up fast!
We also need volunteers. We need dedicated volunteers who will show up for the kids. This is the most important part. If we can’t get volunteers we can’t get kids. Simple, right? Click the link below. Everything ya need to know is there. And then sign up. Our cap as of today is 50 kids, but if we get enough folks who wanna step up we’ll reach more.
Two hours a week for 12 weeks this summer could change a kid’s life.
We’re starting with 50 spots on Wednesday nights from 6:00-8:00 PM at Tourist Park through the summer. This is a youth resilience program for kids 5-17 years old.
First hike: June 10
Last hike: August 19
Cost: $150
The concept mirrors that of Adventure Bike Club – create a space for kids to adventure and do hard things – surrounded by a community of leaders who support their personal path of growth and development. We’re taking everything about the bike program and bringing it to kids minus the bike. All the same core values: respect, effort, grit, consistency. Growth Mindset and the “Power of Yet.” You vs. You!
Registration opens April 18 – based on the response from the community, we expect spots will full up fast!
We also need volunteers. We need dedicated volunteers who will show up for the kids. This is the most important part. If we can’t get volunteers we can’t get kids. Simple, right? Click the link below. Everything ya need to know is there. And then sign up. Our cap as of today is 50 kids, but if we get enough folks who wanna step up we’ll reach more.
Two hours a week for 12 weeks this summer could change a kid’s life.
Adventure Your Way
The Marquette Trail Running Series was created in 2009 and is the longest standing trail running series in Marquette. MTRS was formed by Andrew Rickauer and a small group of volunteers. Andrew’s commitment to organizing these runs and building community is truly commendable. As he steps away and 906AT takes over the series, we move forward with the intent to honor the work he’s put in and the community he’s created.
MTRS has been under the 906AT umbrella for the past four or five years… and this year, we’re diving in a bit deeper and shaking things up a bit. We want to broaden our reach. We want to see more people get into the woods. And we want to offer a program that serves people of all ages and abilities. Running has always been a part of 906AT events – it’s an area that we’ve seen continue to grow over the years – and one we’re excited about!
Director of Adventure Todd Poquette and Dawn Lundin are going to lead the Marquette Trail Running Series this year. We’ll be sharing more information in March but expect all new routes this year, including trails in the West End and the North Country Trail system. Our intention is to offer two distances each night of the series – a beginner/kids distance (3 miles or less) and a longer more advanced distance (6 miles or less).
Before we finalize the details of this season – we’d like your input. Below is a link to a 3-question survey. If you’re interested in MTRS, take a few minutes and let us know what you think!
MTRS has been under the 906AT umbrella for the past four or five years… and this year, we’re diving in a bit deeper and shaking things up a bit. We want to broaden our reach. We want to see more people get into the woods. And we want to offer a program that serves people of all ages and abilities. Running has always been a part of 906AT events – it’s an area that we’ve seen continue to grow over the years – and one we’re excited about!
Director of Adventure Todd Poquette and Dawn Lundin are going to lead the Marquette Trail Running Series this year. We’ll be sharing more information in March but expect all new routes this year, including trails in the West End and the North Country Trail system. Our intention is to offer two distances each night of the series – a beginner/kids distance (3 miles or less) and a longer more advanced distance (6 miles or less).
Before we finalize the details of this season – we’d like your input. Below is a link to a 3-question survey. If you’re interested in MTRS, take a few minutes and let us know what you think!
PR26 – Polar Roll
We are just under three weeks away from this year’s Polar Roll Mass Start in downtown Ishpeming on Saturday, February 21. Mother Nature has hit the U.P. with a winter to remember – from blizzard conditions to arctic temperatures – we can’t predict what she has in store for Polar Roll – but now feels like a good time to highlight the environment – quoted from the PR Field Manual:
“The environment will be hostile. The topography features punchy climbs, deep snow, and potentially frigid temps. Frostbite is possible, water containers will freeze, and trail conditions will be impacted by everything from the wind and precipitation to the riders in front of you. Be prepared for the worst. If you are not prepared for the worst, it would be wise to stay home.“
Whether this is your first Polar Roll or your sixth – read the field manual – know what you’ve signed up for.
You can download a copy of this year’s Field Manual on the Polar Roll website – click here.
Packet Pickup: Friday, February 20, 5:00 – 8:00PM, Blackrock Brewery
MS15 Bike & MS15 Snowshoe: Saturday, February 21, Ishpeming High School
MS30 Bike: Saturday, February 21, Ishpeming High School
MS30 Snowshoe: Saturday, February 21, Ishpeming High School
***exact start times are TBD***
MS participants must finish by dark. All Mass Start events will be timed by Superior Timing: www.superiortiming.com
If you’re choosing an EX route – you have until March 15 to complete it. EX participants must submit their results and checkpoint selfies to
Be Prepared. Follow the Rules. #BLAMETODD
Triple Crown: “I just want to see if I can do it.”
Thousands of people will participate in 906AT events this year, including the Polar Roll, Crusher and Marji Gesick. Each person with their own reasons for signing up and their own goals for the events. One of the individuals that will line up for all three events this year is Jesse Koth of Weston, Wisconsin.
Heading into 2026 he had planned to do the Marji MS100. “I was set on that being the goal, and then with the hype about the secret event, I thought, wouldn’t it be cool to knock them all off in one year and then do the secret event.” Laughing, Jesse adds, “I’m not even sure I want to do the secret event.”
Regardless – he’s on a mission to complete the Polar Roll MS30, Crusher MS175 and the Marji MS100. He’s never done the Polar Roll or Crusher before, so he admits, he’s not sure what to expect – his goal is to finish – not make it a race.
With just a few weeks to Polar Roll, Jesse says he’s feeling good. He’s been working hard and spending more time in the gym, guided by a family friend who’s a personal trainer. He’s been getting out in the negative temperatures, figuring out clothes, how to carry water, experimenting in different conditions – riding on ice and snow – doing what he can to best prepare. His support team has his back, including a group of friends from a new MTB team – the Midwest Mob, and his wife Ashleigh.
“We just got married on January 1st – she’s been a huge support in everything I do and the goals that I set.”
He’s filled with gratitude for her. For the support she’s given while training and biking and for the support she’s shown when he decided to stop drinking alcohol. He’s been sober for four years – and he says, she’s been there every step of the way.
“The 906 events and lifestyle has really opened my mind to a different way of looking at stuff and doing hard things – the ultra event in general – it blows my mind to see what people are capable of – it’s made me want to test myself and see what I’m capable of.“
Jesse says a lot of people talk about their ‘why’ – “I just want to see if I can do it – I’ve been comfortable with floating by and now I want to see how far I can take it.”
We’ll be watching and cheering you on, Jesse, as you find out. See you on February 21st!
Heading into 2026 he had planned to do the Marji MS100. “I was set on that being the goal, and then with the hype about the secret event, I thought, wouldn’t it be cool to knock them all off in one year and then do the secret event.” Laughing, Jesse adds, “I’m not even sure I want to do the secret event.”
Regardless – he’s on a mission to complete the Polar Roll MS30, Crusher MS175 and the Marji MS100. He’s never done the Polar Roll or Crusher before, so he admits, he’s not sure what to expect – his goal is to finish – not make it a race.
With just a few weeks to Polar Roll, Jesse says he’s feeling good. He’s been working hard and spending more time in the gym, guided by a family friend who’s a personal trainer. He’s been getting out in the negative temperatures, figuring out clothes, how to carry water, experimenting in different conditions – riding on ice and snow – doing what he can to best prepare. His support team has his back, including a group of friends from a new MTB team – the Midwest Mob, and his wife Ashleigh.
“We just got married on January 1st – she’s been a huge support in everything I do and the goals that I set.”
He’s filled with gratitude for her. For the support she’s given while training and biking and for the support she’s shown when he decided to stop drinking alcohol. He’s been sober for four years – and he says, she’s been there every step of the way.
“The 906 events and lifestyle has really opened my mind to a different way of looking at stuff and doing hard things – the ultra event in general – it blows my mind to see what people are capable of – it’s made me want to test myself and see what I’m capable of.“
Jesse says a lot of people talk about their ‘why’ – “I just want to see if I can do it – I’ve been comfortable with floating by and now I want to see how far I can take it.”
We’ll be watching and cheering you on, Jesse, as you find out. See you on February 21st!
New MADE U.P. Episodes! Todd’s been keeping the lights on in the recording studio with new guests and conversations – check out the lastest episodes:
Episode 38 – 906 AT Staff: 906AT staff gather to talk about the year ahead for Adventure Teams, Events, and personal goals for the new year.
Episode 39 – Dawn Lundin: Dawn is the owner of Restore Ease Dietetics, LLC. As a Registered Dietitian, she maintains an individualized approach to working with and supporting regular folks, active individuals, student-athletes, weekend warriors, and those who want to tackle self-supported events. Dawn is a 906AT volunteer coach, event participant, Trilogy Events Sponsor, and Sponsor of the MADE U.P. Podcast.
In this episode Dawn answers crowd sourced dietary questions related to 906AT Trilogy events.
Episode 40 – Matt Majkrzak: Matt is the head coach of the NCAA D2 Northern Michigan University men’s basketball team. Matt describes his path from humble beginnings washing laundry as a team manager to his current status coaching a nationally ranked D2 team.
Gavin Poquette is a student and Design Intern at NMU (graduating May 2026). A good deal of Gavin’s work can be found around the NMU campus. Coach Majkrzak boasts of Gavin’s “elite level” design work.
Episode 41 – Jesie Melchiori: Jesie is part owner and operator of The Up North Lodge (County Road 557 in Gwinn, MI). The business provides a full range of services including dining, lodging, events (including weddings), winter sleigh rides, and is a great jumping off spot when planning recreational getaways in Marquette County. Jesie has deep roots in helping build the local community. While her participation in the Marji Gesick 100 might not be widely known until today, her BBQ ribs sure are.
“I can’t imagine where I would be without these experiences.”
Monkey Loob was founded in 2012 by Lyndsay Stiles and her father Jack Stiles, born out of the love of Roller Derby. They developed Monkey Loob as the all in one Cleaner, Lubricant, and Rust Protectant for skate bearings initially, however over time Monkey Loob has been found to be superior for bicycle chains, overhead doors, hinges, and anything that needs rust protection and lubrication.
Lyndsay has been an avid mountain biker since the early 90’s, but started attending races and events around 2012. In 2016 she attended her first Polar Roll, and that was her introduction into Doing Hard Things! Completely unprepared, having never ridden trails up in Marquette before, let alone in the winter….what could go wrong? It was by far an experience of a lifetime. Even though there was no finish that year for her as the temps started rising, and the snow started sinking, the event and the need to see those trails in the summer brought her back again and again. Since that experience, Lyndsay has finished the 50 mile Marji Gesick in 2019, Completed the Crusher 100 in 2000, Finished the 30 mile Polar Roll in 2023, 16 mile Polar Roll in 2024, and attempted the 100 mile Marji Gesick in 2021, 2023, and 2025.
Lyndsay says, “Having these experiences is why supporting the 906 Adventure Team matters so much to me. Their mission to teach kids and adults that hard things become less hard when you keep showing up, mirrors the foundation Monkey Loob was built on and how I try to live my life day to day. I can’t imagine where I would be without these experiences, and I hope many more kids get the chance to discover what they are capable of!”
Monkey Loob is proud to support an organization that builds confidence, resilience, and community- one hard ride at a time!
You can find us online at: www.monkeyloob.com
Become an Adventure Team Volunteer!
Adventure Teams can be found in 17 communities and 3 states this year. We want you to know that each community relies on volunteers to host an adventure team. Kids meet at basecamp each week to bike or hike with their adult coaches. For every group of up to 10 kids, a team needs at least 3 coaches to volunteer. Each group of kids rides or hikes with 2-3 coaches and additional adult volunteers run basecamp logistics. Basecamp volunteer duties include keeping basecamp safe, being available to riders/hikers and coaches via radio while they are out on the trail, prepping snacks and helping with clean up. The volunteer commitment is weekly during the summer months with the expectation of 80% attendance. Each week volunteers meet at their Adventure Team basecamp for a 5:45 PM coach meeting, ride with their team from 6-8:00 PM and assist with clean up. On the bike volunteers do not need to have a lot of bike experience or skills.
Once you have decided you are willing to commit to your community’s Adventure Team, you will register at this link. From there 906AT will run a background check and you will receive an invitation to complete the online, 10-module training. Online training is due by April 15th and the number of trained and background checked coaches per community at that point determines how many youth riders and hikers will be able to adventure this summer.
You can find out more information about each community’s Adventure Team at this site, including the Lead Coach(es) contact information for each community – they would be happy to answer any question you have about their team. Based on our current coach numbers by community below – you can see we have a need for you!
Please reach out and help us meet our community adventure goals and share this with others you think may be a good fit.
Whether through a donation to youth resilience programming or a sponsorship of your local Adventure Team, your support is crucial to keep the momentum going. We’ve made incredible progress, but we’re already fully immersed in the planning and building for the next decade of growth. Through your financial partnership, you can be a key part of helping us build the foundation for the next 10 years of leadership, resilience and growth for thousands of youth.
Trilogy Partners
