Finalists for the fifth annual Outdoor Inspiration Awards were selected and announced Thursday. The Outdoor Inspiration Awards, presented by title sponsor Adidas Outdoor and Outdoor Retailer, recognize individuals, groups, and companies whose efforts are above and beyond in inspiring others to enjoy, participate in, and support outdoor activities.

The awards will be presented during Outdoor Retailer Winter Market at the Salt Palace Convention Center on Thursday, Jan. 22, in MR 250 from 6:00 pm – 8:00 pm. This year’s categories were expanded to include retailers, non-profits and youth, in addition to the original categories for manufacturers and individuals. The event is free to attend and cocktails and hors d’oeuvres will be served. Other sponsors include The Boy Scouts of America and PrimaLoft.

“Working with Outdoor Retailer, we established this program to honor those within our industry that provide avenues and programs to encourage people to participate in outdoor activities,” said Greg Thomsen, managing director for Adidas Outdoor US. “These finalists are wonderful examples and their work is critical to the growth of our community. We thank them for their commitment and celebrate their spirit and determination.”

“The Outdoor Inspiration Awards is our industry’s opportunity to shine the light on those that tirelessly work to open the world of the outdoors up to those who may not otherwise have the resources or confidence to enjoy all that the outdoors has to offer,” said Marisa Nicholson, Vice President and Outdoor Retailer Show Director. “The passion of these finalists does not stop when they leave work. Their spirit of adventure compels them to share their love for the outdoors with others. It is important that we stop and take time to recognize their commitment and celebrate their efforts.”

A true outdoor community event, we are pleased to recognize:

Individual Finalists:
Lizette Perez
Jeremy Collins
Sarah Knapp

Manufacturer Finalists:
Jackson Kayak
Patagonia
Coleman

Non-Profit Finalists:
National Interscholastic Cycling Association
Venture Prep Girls
Four Corners School of Outdoor Education
Leave No Trace

Retailer Finalists:
The Mountaineer
REI
Campmor

Youth Finalists:
Matt Moniz
Tucker Cullen
Charlotte Christensen

The 2015 Lifetime Achievement Recipient:
John Roskelley
Roskelley is a noted mountain climber and author from Spokane, Washington. He is known for his first ascents and notable ascents of 7,000 and 8,000 meter peaks in Nepal, India, and Pakistan.