Ian Golden of Ithaca, Tompkins County

Why are you a member?

On a personal level I use Ithaca’s natural resources daily. With two wonderful daughters I have a vested interest in ensuring those resources remain for generations to come.

How long have you been a member of FLLT?

Member since 2012.

What’s your favorite FLLT activity and/or preserve, and why?

Trail running allows me immersion and engagement with our natural surroundings. For me the awareness of topography is enhanced on the run. Climbs feel harder, downs feel faster, foot placement among rocks, roots and efts becomes critical, and the smell of moving water on deep inhalations is visceral. For me, on the trail and run, a flow state is accessed. A favorite spot where I often find that flow is descending on the white blazed Finger Lakes Trail at the Sweedler Preserve at Lick Brook.

Anything else you want to add?

On a business level, Red Newt Racing would be literally unable to do what it does without key trail connections and trail maintenance. The Finger Lakes Land Trust is one entity that combines the vision to acquire and preserve key connectors and critical habitats with opportunities for planned public use. I’m grateful on all fronts.