We Did It Again . . . A Record 12th Texas Tree Climbing Championship

by Kevin Bassett

The State of Texas was well represented in the International Tree Climbing Championship competition by Arborilogical Services employee Miguel Pastenes.  Mr. Pastenes has been practicing as a tree climber through company training programs for over two years. Mr. Pastenes shocked the crowd during the Texas Tree Climbing Championship competition in Ft. Worth as he defeated an entire field of expert climbers, many of which were past champions.  For a climber with limited experience to win, is a testament to his personal abilities and our company training programs.

As the current State Champion, Mr. Pastenes represented Texas in the international competition, which was held in Pittsburgh, PA.  Miguel competed along with 38 other Chapter Champions from all over the world.  Although he did not win, Miguel gained valuable experience from the competition and is a definite favorite to return to the ITCC in the coming years. Miguel is preparing to defend his state title in 2005 against three past champions from Arborilogical Services and fellow employees, Nicolas Martinez, Leoncio Carlos, Francisco Carlos, as well as competitors from throughout Texas.  He has a difficult challenge ahead of him in 2005 if he is to return to the ITCC in Nashville, TN.

I traveled with Miguel to Pittsburgh.  This was my fifth consecutive year to serve as the Head Judge of the Foot Lock Event.

This year’s Texas competition will be held in Austin.  Stay tuned for the event date where the best in the State will once again compete for the opportunity to win the “Houser Cup”, named for our leader Steve Houser, and represent Texas at the International Tree Climbing Championship. Official results for the ITCC are available on the web at www.isa-arbor.com. From the opening page select “Welcome”, “Media Source”, and “International Tree Climbing Champion Press Releases”.  All of the articles, plus results, are available to you.

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