Tom, although now living in the City of Brotherly Love, hails from the coal region of Northeast PA.  Although surrounded by the “black gold” rock while growing up, it wasn’t until the mid-90s when he first got some taste of the sport while working as a stock-boy and car parker in Estes Park, CO. It wasn’t hard to fall in love with climbing when you’re surrounded by some of the best rock in the states. His days were filled with morning runs up Trail Ridge Road to work and evening escapes to the local Colorado crags. College summers made it easy to climb, taking him on frequent Rock and Road trips from the Rocky Mountains to the coast of Maine. In his mid 20s, Tom took a short break from climbing only to realize that it wasn’t such a good idea. Inspired by his 30th birthday, it was time for him to revisit the vertical world. A few years later, all is back to normal and weekends are once again filled with trips to the local crags. The only difference now is that the post-climbing beer quality has improved!

Climbing style: I’m lovin’ the sharp end!

Favorite alcoholic beverage:  The ones that you don’t drink with a straw!

Favorite read: “On the Road” by Kerouac

Music: a little Dylan, sprinkled with the Old 97’s and a side of Frog Holler, please.

Favorite Web site: www.spadout.com

Addictions: Sunflower seeds, Steep and Cheap, and episodes of MacGyver with Murdoc   

Occupation: Environmental do-gooder

Pastime other than climbing: Anything without walls

Favorite quote: “Here’s to alcohol, the cause of—and solution to—all life’s problems.” – Homer Simpson