ABSF Board Candidate: Joey Widmer

Hometown:
Theresa, WI

Years of ABSF Membership:
5

Occupation:
4th Generation Family Business Owner

Why are you interested in being a member of the ABSF Board of Directors? 

I am interested in joining the ABSF Board of Directors because I am deeply passionate about the active outdoor lifestyle that the ABSF promotes. I spend a lot of time at my family’s cabin in the Hayward area and have been going there for the past 25 years of my life. I enjoy various outdoor activities such as, skiing, biking, running, and triathlons and use these events to test myself and enjoy the camaraderie with other folks.

I want to help promote an active outdoor lifestyle for other people because it means a lot to me and continues to positively impact my life in many ways. Being a part of the ABSF would allow me the opportunity to give back to a community and sport that has given so much to me and my family.

What knowledge and skills do you possess that can benefit the organization?

I want to contribute my skills acquired through business leadership and management. I have 10 years of experience in business management as the 4th generation of a small family-owned business in Wisconsin. I have experience in helping execute important strategic decisions on a daily basis. I have experience working with others and making decisions as a team. I’ve acquired hands-on experience in brainstorming/problem solving and coming up with actionable steps that help move an organization forward through growth and innovation.

I’ve been actively participating in ABSF events starting in 2019 . These events include the 50km Birkebeiner, Fat Bike Birkie, Birkie Trail Marathon, and Epic Bike Fest. I have a diverse background in the events ABSF hosts. I’ve also participated in other events such as, Grandma’s Marathon and the Whistle Stop Half Marathon, along with countless other 5k and 10k events. I’ve attained first-hand experience of how these events are conducted from a participant point of view. I could help provide valuable feedback, insight, and ideas to help continue improving and growing the ABSF and the world class events it hosts.

How do you see yourself helping to fulfill the ABSF vision, mission and values? 

I will help fulfill the ABSF vision, mission, and values by harnessing my passion for the active outdoor lifestyle. I will use that passion to promote and bring ideas to the ABSF, while acting as a good steward now and for future generations to come.

I actively participate and encourage physical activity and wellness by doing ABSF events and leading by example. I value environmental issues and nature and would contribute to the care and preservation of ABSF trails and facilities now and for future generations. I believe that the ABSF and its events should be welcoming for all and should help strengthen the community as a whole. The Birkie is a well renowned high quality athletic event and I would help foster a commitment to those high standards. I would value the opportunity to work with the other members of the ABSF board to help promote and pursue the continuous improvement of the organization.