To the Editor:
Regarding the April 11 article "Generaux recounts a life spent in pursuit of thrills" by Kelly Swartz, I wish to dispel any notions the article may convey that Mr. Genereaux's approach to the outdoors is representative of that of Dartmouth students. In particular, it is not representative of members of the Dartmouth Outing Club, which I advise.
I can assure you that the Dartmouth Outing Club does not engage in "extreme sports" as defined in this article, or we would not have been around since 1909. Rigorous and difficult expeditions have been carried out safely by Dartmouth students all over the world since the club's founding. They were successful because of the skill, intelligence and forethought of the students. Mr. Genereaux probably applies more skill and forethought than he lets on, which is why he's still with us. Near-death experiences just make for better press.
Yes, there are risks to adventure. Within the Dartmouth Outing Club and within all responsible outdoor organizations there is a constant push to control risk relative to the intended goal. Driving is statistically the most dangerous activity we engage in, followed closely by cooking. I am sure that we would be seen as ridiculous if we decided to eliminate driving and cooking (or if we began referring to them as "extreme sports"). The benefits to driving and cooking are obvious and desirable, therefore we engage in those activities. Exactly the same is true of "extreme" pursuits like kayaking, rock climbing, skiing, hiking, winter mountaineering and hunting. We evaluate risk and benefit. We reduce risk through training and reflection. We encourage students to go outdoors because of the great benefits to be derived from adventure: physical fitness, leadership, compassion, learning, friendship.
As aptly stated by Bertrand Russell, "A life without adventure is likely to be unsatisfying, but a life in which adventure is allowed to take whatever form it will, is likely to be short."
