08/19/2026
I’ve known Mary Kay for eight years, and what an absolute blast it was to have her be part of the 2026 Summit Project. She brought so much fun, encouragement, and confidence to this group! Still months later, I’ll never forget watching her reach her very first summit. The tears, the hugs, and the emotion of realizing what she had just accomplished.
At the top she wore a shirt with all of her grandkids on it (pictured). She shared that when the climb got hard, she kept thinking about them, and they became her source of encouragement. What an amazing thing to keep coming back to when she needed another reason to take the next step. :)
There’s something pretty badass about deciding you want to keep seeing what’s out there, saying yes to the adventure, and building a life that allows you to actually go do it. Congratulations on your summit, Mary Kay--You are, and have always been, an inspiration to many!
Here is her story/experience in her own words:
"After following the 2025 Summit Group on Facebook, I knew that was a challenge I wanted to conquer. Seeing the excited faces of people I had worked out with over the years gave me the courage to apply. In January I attended the information meeting and completed the application process. When I learned I was in, I committed 100%.
Holly provided a thorough training schedule, nutrition plans, water guidelines, and supply recommendations. I got started and enjoyed the interaction with other hikers. Monthly hikes together, regular updates and clear expectations kept me on track. I looked forward to the Monday check-ins and motivating posts from my fellow hikers each week.
My biggest challenge leading up to the trip was managing osteoarthritis in my hip, which I addressed through physical therapy and injections. Fortunately, a family trip to Norway a month prior provided the perfect opportunity for mountain hiking preparation, and my hip fared so well that I stopped worrying about it.
When June 23, 2026, finally arrived, it was wonderful to meet the other hikers. The drive to the ABNB was spectacular, and the coaches did an incredible job providing food, protein, electrolytes, and snacks. Preparing for Summit Day both indoors and on the trails was a true highlight; we shared laughs, bonded, and supported each other. We would end each day with a Coaches meeting that provided more details as we moved closer to Summit Day.
On Summit Day, we set off in the pitch black with backpacks filled, electrolytes handy, and headlamps powered on. Calm & Cool Chris leading the way. After a seemingly short hike we moved out of the forest, we saw the sun rise behind us, revealing the mountain peaks ahead. As we pushed toward Mount Elbert our pace increased, our volume increased and our excitement was off the charts! The incline grew steeper and breathing became more difficult as we neared 13,000 feet. I began to feel lightheaded and weak, and I honestly thought I was done.
Holly stepped in with the exact words I needed, telling me, "Mary Kay, you are not done!" She directed me to get electrolytes and carbs, and rest. Soon after she got me moving again and this time, I had a shadow...Shane. Shane provided positive reinforcement and helpful instructions that kept me moving for the final 1,400 feet. He said, " You will summit this mountain!" His countdown every 100 feet gave me the momentum to keep going, and I am incredibly grateful for his support.
Hearing the cheers from the 2026 Summit Team as I reached the peak brought tears of relief and joy. The overwhelming emotion that hit me as I reached the Summit is something I will never forget. I have done some very difficult things in my life, but this achievement provided instant gratification and a view I will remember forever.
For anyone thinking Is This for Me?...
This is a life changing experience you will never regret!
You can do this!
Do it for YOU!
And you will conquer more great things
- Commit 100%
- Follow Holly's playbook
- Meet new friends
- Enjoy the process"
