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{{Short description|American adventurer and tech company entrepreneur}}
{{Short description|American adventurer and tech company entrepreneur}}
{{For|other people named Patrick Sweeney|Patrick Sweeney (disambiguation){{!}}Patrick Sweeney}}
{{For|other people named Patrick Sweeney|Patrick Sweeney (disambiguation){{!}}Patrick Sweeney}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=August 2022}}
{{Undisclosed paid|date=April 2022}}
{{Infobox person
{{Infobox person
|name = Patrick Sweeney
|name = Patrick Sweeney
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}}
}}
|caption =
|caption =
|birth_date = {{birth date and age|1970|11|9}}
|birth_date = {{birth date and age|1966|11|9}}
|birth_place = [[Boston, Massachusetts]], United States
|birth_place = [[Boston]], Massachusetts, United States
|death_date =
|death_date =
|nationality = American
|nationality = American
|occupation = [[Author]] <br/> [[Adventurer]] <br/> [[Entrepreneurship|Entrepreneur]]
|occupation = Author <br /> adventurer <br /> entrepreneur
|years_active = 1998–present
|years_active = 1998–present
|alma mater = [[University of New Hampshire]] <br/> [[University of Virginia]]
|alma mater = [[University of New Hampshire]] <br /> [[University of Virginia]]
|children = 3
|spouse = Christen Sweeney<ref name="au">
|spouse = Christen Sweeney<ref name="au">
{{cite web
{{cite web
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|author=Debbie Schipp
|author=Debbie Schipp
|publisher=[[News.com.au]]
|publisher=[[News.com.au]]
|date=2014-07-20
|date=July 20, 2014
|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20170910181741/http://www.news.com.au/news/risk-rocks-say-the-new-breed-of-antihelicopter-parents/news-story/ad9401c75929630c30b7a749dc546419
|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20170910181741/http://www.news.com.au/news/risk-rocks-say-the-new-breed-of-antihelicopter-parents/news-story/ad9401c75929630c30b7a749dc546419
|archivedate = 2017-09-10
|archivedate = September 10, 2017
|accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref>
|accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref>
|website = {{url|http://www.pjsweeney.com}}
|website = {{url|www.pjsweeney.com}}
}}
}}


'''Patrick J. Sweeney, II''' (born 9 November 1970) is an American entrepreneur, adventurer, and author.<ref name="spiegel">{{cite web
'''Patrick J. Sweeney, II''' (born November 9, 1970) is an American entrepreneur, adventurer, and author.<ref name="spiegel">{{cite web
|url=http://www.spiegel.de/international/europe/popularity-of-mont-blanc-makes-climbing-it-more-dangerous-a-990885.html|title='Snow! Snow! Get Moving!': The Lethal Lure of Mont Blanc|author=Lukas Eberle and Victoria Weidemann|publisher=[[Spiegel Online]]
|url=http://www.spiegel.de/international/europe/popularity-of-mont-blanc-makes-climbing-it-more-dangerous-a-990885.html|title='Snow! Snow! Get Moving!': The Lethal Lure of Mont Blanc|author=Lukas Eberle and Victoria Weidemann|publisher=[[Spiegel Online]]
|date=2014-07-28|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20141001192718/http://www.spiegel.de/international/europe/popularity-of-mont-blanc-makes-climbing-it-more-dangerous-a-990885.html|archivedate=2014-10-01|accessdate=2017-09-25|url-status=live}}</ref> He is the author of three books including a ''[[Wall Street Journal]]'' Bestseller, ''Fear is Fuel: The Surprising Power to Find Purpose, Passion and Performance'', and ''RFID for Dummies''.<ref>https://www.wsj.com/articles/bestselling-books-week-ended-march-14-11584642813</ref>
|date=July 28, 2014|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20141001192718/http://www.spiegel.de/international/europe/popularity-of-mont-blanc-makes-climbing-it-more-dangerous-a-990885.html|archivedate=2014-10-01|accessdate=2017-09-25|url-status=live}}</ref> He is the author of three books including a ''[[Wall Street Journal]]'' Bestseller, ''Fear is Fuel: The Surprising Power to Find Purpose, Passion and Performance'', and ''RFID for Dummies''.<ref name="auto1">{{Cite news|url=https://www.wsj.com/articles/bestselling-books-week-ended-march-14-11584642813|title=Bestselling Books Week Ended March 14|newspaper=Wall Street Journal|date=March 19, 2020|via=www.wsj.com}}</ref>


Sweeney was the first person to attempt cycling the [[Seven Summits]], and holds a world record for being the first person to officially cycle to Everest Base Camp and the first person to cycle Mount Elbrus.<ref name="october" /><ref name="elb" />
Sweeney was the first person to attempt cycling the [[Seven Summits]], and holds a world record for being the first person to officially cycle to Everest Base Camp and the first person to cycle Mount Elbrus.<ref name="october" /><ref name="elb" />


==Early life and education==
==Early life and education==
Patrick J. Sweeney II was born in November 9, 1970 in [[Boston]] to first-generation [[Ireland|Irish]] immigrants.<ref name="unh" /> His father worked three jobs while his mother took care of the children.<ref name="unh" /> In 1982 they settled in [[Keene, New Hampshire|Keene]].
Patrick J. Sweeney II was born in November 9, 1970, in [[Boston]] to first-generation Irish immigrants.<ref name="unh" /> His father worked three jobs while his mother took care of the children.<ref name="unh" /> In 1982 they settled in [[Keene, New Hampshire|Keene]].


Sweeney enrolled in the [[University of New Hampshire]]<ref name="unh" /> where he took up [[Rowing (sport)|rowing]] and was crew captain.<ref name="unh">
Sweeney enrolled in the [[University of New Hampshire]]<ref name="unh" /> where he took up [[Rowing (sport)|rowing]] and was crew captain.<ref name="unh">
{{cite web |url=http://paulcollege.unh.edu/paul-post/patrick-sweeney |title= Adventure Entrepreneur Patrick Sweeney '89 Delivers Homecoming Keynote |publisher=[[University of New Hampshire]] |date=2015-10-10 |archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20151019063103/http://paulcollege.unh.edu/paul-post/patrick-sweeney |archivedate = 2015-10-19 |accessdate=2017-09-26}}</ref> He was the lead oarsman (stroke) on a four-man team that won the [[Dad Vail Regatta|Dad Vail National Championship]].
{{cite web |url=http://paulcollege.unh.edu/paul-post/patrick-sweeney |title= Adventure Entrepreneur Patrick Sweeney '89 Delivers Homecoming Keynote |publisher=[[University of New Hampshire]] |date=October 10, 2015 |archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20151019063103/http://paulcollege.unh.edu/paul-post/patrick-sweeney |archivedate = October 19, 2015 |accessdate=2017-09-26}}</ref> He was the lead oarsman (stroke) on a four-man team that won the [[Dad Vail Regatta|Dad Vail National Championship]].


Sweeney also participated in two [[Olympic Games|Olympic]] trials and finished 14th in 1992<ref name="unh" /> and 2nd in 1996<ref name="unh" /> in the [[single scull]] (one man rowing).<ref>{{cite magazine | date = 21 April – 4 May 1996| title = Results | url = https://books.google.com/books?id=EkcEAAAAMBAJ&pg=PP6 | magazine = Rowing News, April 21 – May 4, 1996 | publisher = The Independent Rowing News Inc. | access-date = 2017-09-26}} (Google Books)</ref> He retired in 1996 after winning the [[Royal Canadian Henley Regatta]] in the "Men's Elite Single" category.<ref>{{cite magazine | date = 25 August – 7 September 1996| title = The Royal Canadian Henley Regatta (August 7-11, 1996) | url = https://books.google.com/books?id=JkcEAAAAMBAJ&pg=PP10 | magazine = Rowing News, August 24 – September 7, 1996 | publisher = The Independent Rowing News Inc. | access-date = 2017-09-26 }}</ref>
Sweeney also participated in the World Cup as a single sculler and two Olympic trials where he finished 14th in 1992<ref name="unh" /> and 2nd in 1996<ref name="unh" /> in the [[single scull]] (one man rowing).<ref>{{cite magazine | date = April 21 – May 4, 1996| title = Results | url = https://books.google.com/books?id=EkcEAAAAMBAJ&pg=PP6 | magazine = Rowing News, April 21 – May 4, 1996 | publisher = The Independent Rowing News Inc. | access-date = September 26, 2017}} (Google Books)</ref> He retired in 1996 after winning the [[Royal Canadian Henley Regatta]] in the "Men's Elite Single" category.<ref>{{cite magazine | date = August 25 – September 7, 1996| title = The Royal Canadian Henley Regatta (August 7–11, 1996) | url = https://books.google.com/books?id=JkcEAAAAMBAJ&pg=PP10 | magazine = Rowing News, August 24 – September 7, 1996 | publisher = The Independent Rowing News Inc. | access-date = September 26, 2017 }}</ref>


In 1998, Sweeney earned an [[MBA]] from [[University of Virginia Darden School of Business|Darden Graduate School of Business Administration]].<ref>
In 1998, Sweeney earned an [[MBA]] from [[University of Virginia Darden School of Business|Darden Graduate School of Business Administration]].<ref>
{{cite web|url= https://blogs.darden.virginia.edu/brunerblog/2008/06/olympian-with-a-story/|author = Robert F. Bruner|title= Olympian with a Story|publisher= [[University of Virginia Darden School of Business]]|date=2008-06-29|archiveurl = https://www.webcitation.org/6tTP5nevz?url=https://blogs.darden.virginia.edu/brunerblog/2008/06/olympian-with-a-story/|archivedate = 2017-09-14|accessdate=2017-09-26}}</ref>
{{cite web|url= https://blogs.darden.virginia.edu/brunerblog/2008/06/olympian-with-a-story/|author = Robert F. Bruner|title= Olympian with a Story|publisher= [[University of Virginia Darden School of Business]]|date=June 29, 2008|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20170914143217/https://blogs.darden.virginia.edu/brunerblog/2008/06/olympian-with-a-story/|archivedate = September 14, 2017|url-status= live|accessdate=2017-09-26}}</ref>


In 2002, Sweeney attended summer school at the [[Massachusetts Institute of Technology]] specifically at the auto-ID center for the [[Internet of Things]] (IoT) and RFI.<ref>https://www.dcvelocity.com/articles/23514-he-s-no-dummy-interview-with-patrick-sweeney</ref>
In 2002, Sweeney attended summer school at the [[Massachusetts Institute of Technology]] specifically at the auto-ID center for the [[Internet of Things]] (IoT), electronic Product Code and RFID.<ref name="auto2">{{Cite web|url=https://www.dcvelocity.com/articles/23514-he-s-no-dummy-interview-with-patrick-sweeney|title=he's no dummy: interview with Patrick Sweeney|website=www.dcvelocity.com}}</ref>


==Career==
==Career==
Sweeney had his first job when he was in high school and started working part-time in Boston, Massachusetts.<ref>https://www.dcvelocity.com/articles/23514-he-s-no-dummy-interview-with-patrick-sweeney</ref> Upon graduating from the University of New Hampshire, he worked for four entrepreneurs in Bedford, New Hampshire, building houses, hotels, and restaurants, before leaving to train full time as an athlete.<ref>https://www.dcvelocity.com/articles/23514-he-s-no-dummy-interview-with-patrick-sweeney</ref>
Sweeney had his first job when he was in high school and started working part-time in Boston, Massachusetts.<ref name="auto2"/> Upon graduating from the University of New Hampshire, he worked for four entrepreneurs in Bedford, New Hampshire, building houses, hotels, and restaurants, before leaving to train full time as an athlete.<ref name="auto2"/>


Sweeney did an [[internship]] at [[Trammell Crow Company]].<ref>https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/local/2001/06/21/amid-empty-space-a-secure-place/fcaca7f6-7561-4270-a88b-a70753f2a113/</ref> In October 1999, he started a company, ServerVault, which provides ultra-secure web hosting facilities.<ref>https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/local/2001/06/21/amid-empty-space-a-secure-place/fcaca7f6-7561-4270-a88b-a70753f2a113/</ref> The company was started with an initial investment of $750,000 from [[angel investor]]s, including the [[Dave Matthews Band]].<ref>https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/local/2001/06/21/amid-empty-space-a-secure-place/fcaca7f6-7561-4270-a88b-a70753f2a113/</ref> In 2000, the company opened data centers in the United States and Ireland.<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.irishtimes.com/business/us-firm-to-set-up-dublin-net-centre-1.1105965|author = Jamie Smyth
Sweeney did an [[internship]] at [[Trammell Crow Company]].<ref name="auto3">{{cite news |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/local/2001/06/21/amid-empty-space-a-secure-place/fcaca7f6-7561-4270-a88b-a70753f2a113/ |title=Amid Empty Space, a Secure Place |date=June 21, 2001 |author1=Amy Joyce |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] |place=Washington, D.C. |issn=0190-8286 |oclc=1330888409}}</ref> In October 1999, he started a company, ServerVault, which provides ultra-secure web hosting facilities.<ref name="auto3"/> The company was started with an initial investment of $750,000 from [[angel investor]]s, including the [[Dave Matthews Band]].<ref name="auto3"/> In 2000, the company opened data centers in the United States and Ireland.<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.irishtimes.com/business/us-firm-to-set-up-dublin-net-centre-1.1105965|author = Jamie Smyth
|title= US firm to set up Dublin Net centre |publisher= [[The Irish Times]] |date=2000-10-05 |archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20170925182335/https://www.irishtimes.com/business/us-firm-to-set-up-dublin-net-centre-1.1105965 |archivedate = 2017-09-25 |accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref> In 2002 it was sold to [[Western & Southern Financial Group|Western & Southern Capital]] and later in 2009 to [[Quality Technology Services|Carpathia Hosting]].<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/stories/2002/04/15/daily40.html|title= Fort Washington buys ServerVault |publisher= [[The Business Journals]] |date=2002-04-18 |archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20030118050414/https://www.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/stories/2002/04/15/daily40.html |archivedate = 2003-01-18
|title= US firm to set up Dublin Net centre |publisher= [[The Irish Times]] |date=October 5, 2000 |archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20170925182335/https://www.irishtimes.com/business/us-firm-to-set-up-dublin-net-centre-1.1105965 |archivedate = September 25, 2017 |accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref> In 2002, it was sold to [[Western & Southern Financial Group|Western & Southern Capital]] and later in 2009 to [[Quality Technology Services|Carpathia Hosting]].<ref>{{cite web|url= https://www.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/stories/2002/04/15/daily40.html|title= Fort Washington buys ServerVault |publisher= [[The Business Journals]] |date=April 18, 2002 |archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20030118050414/https://www.bizjournals.com/cincinnati/stories/2002/04/15/daily40.html |archivedate = January 18, 2003
|accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref>
|accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref>


In 2002, Sweeney and co-inventor of [[Electronic Product Code]] (EPC) protocol Daniel Engels started [[ODIN Technologies]].<ref>https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/business/2004/09/20/odin-technologies-aims-to-be-the-chief-of-rfid/7d2173cc-d491-4956-82b8-4ee9524a86b3/</ref> It became dominant in [[Radio-frequency identification|RFID]] technology.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.dcvelocity.com/articles/20070901thoughtleaders/ |author =Mitch Mac Donald|title= He's no dummy: interview with Patrick Sweeney |publisher= dcvelocity.com |date=2007-09-01 |archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20170914190158/http://www.dcvelocity.com/articles/20070901thoughtleaders/ |archivedate = 2017-09-14 |accessdate=2017-09-26}}</ref> In January 2013, the company was acquired by [[Quake Global]].<ref>{{cite web |url= http://sdbj.com/news/2013/jan/24/quake-global-acquires-rfid-solutions-designer-odin/ |title= Quake Global Acquires RFID Solutions Designer ODIN Technologies |publisher= [[San Diego Business Journal]]|date= 2014-01-24 |archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20161205073909/http://www.sdbj.com/news/2013/jan/24/quake-global-acquires-rfid-solutions-designer-odin/ |archivedate = 2016-12-05 |accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref> ODIN has completed over 500 RFID projects for clients including the US Department of Defense.<ref>https://www.dcvelocity.com/articles/23514-he-s-no-dummy-interview-with-patrick-sweeney</ref> At the 2009 RFID Journal Awards, ODIN won best-in-show for its patented Smart Container.<ref>https://rfidjournalawards.com/past-winners/</ref>
In 2002, Sweeney and co-inventor of [[Electronic Product Code]] (EPC) protocol Daniel Engels started [[ODIN Technologies]].<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.washingtonpost.com/archive/business/2004/09/20/odin-technologies-aims-to-be-the-chief-of-rfid/7d2173cc-d491-4956-82b8-4ee9524a86b3/ |title=Odin Technologies Aims to Be the Chief of RFID |date=September 20, 2004 |author1=Andrea Caumont |newspaper=[[The Washington Post]] |place=Washington, D.C. |issn=0190-8286 |oclc=1330888409}}</ref> It became dominant in [[Radio-frequency identification|RFID]] technology.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.dcvelocity.com/articles/20070901thoughtleaders/ |author =Mitch Mac Donald|title= He's no dummy: interview with Patrick Sweeney |publisher= dcvelocity.com |date=September 1, 2007 |archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20170914190158/http://www.dcvelocity.com/articles/20070901thoughtleaders/ |archivedate = September 14, 2017 |accessdate=2017-09-26}}</ref> In January 2013, the company was acquired by [[Quake Global]].<ref>{{cite web |url= http://sdbj.com/news/2013/jan/24/quake-global-acquires-rfid-solutions-designer-odin/ |title= Quake Global Acquires RFID Solutions Designer ODIN Technologies |publisher= [[San Diego Business Journal]]|date= January 24, 2014 |archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20161205073909/http://www.sdbj.com/news/2013/jan/24/quake-global-acquires-rfid-solutions-designer-odin/ |archivedate = December 5, 2016 |accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref> ODIN has completed over 500 RFID projects for clients including the US Department of Defense.<ref name="auto2"/> At the 2009 RFID Journal Awards, ODIN won best-in-show for its patented Smart Container.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://rfidjournalawards.com/past-winners/|title=Past Winners &#124; RFID Journal Awards|date=August 8, 2019|website=rfidjournalawards.com}}</ref>


In 2010, Sweeney received one of seven Small Business Administration (SBA) Awards for Innovation, awarded by President [[Barack Obama]].<ref>https://www.pjsweeney.com/bio/</ref>
In 2010, Sweeney received one of seven Small Business Administration (SBA) Awards for Innovation, awarded by President [[Barack Obama]].<ref name="auto">{{Cite web|url=https://www.pjsweeney.com/bio/|title=Patrick Sweeney – motivational & inspirational virtual or live speaker WSJ Best Seller}}</ref>


In January 2013, Sweeney spun out a new company, named dwinQ, which is a live event social media company.<ref>https://www2.alumni.virginia.edu/ClassNotes/PersonHistory.aspx?personId=19070</ref> Their first major project was the development of the Epic Mix system for Vail Resorts.
In January 2013, Sweeney spun out a new company, named dwinQ, which is a live event social media company.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www2.alumni.virginia.edu/ClassNotes/PersonHistory.aspx?personId=19070|title=Patrick Sweeney|website=www2.alumni.virginia.edu}}</ref> Their first major project was the development of the Epic Mix system for Vail Resorts.

Sweeney launched a company in June 2022 which claims to build the world's most powerful bitcoin miner that can only be used on renewable energy. The specifications indicate a single miner produces 9 Petahash (one quadrillion hashes per second) of computing power.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.einnews.com/pr_news/575899625/the-world-s-most-powerful-and-efficient-industrial-scale-crypto-mining-system-to-launch-at-consensus-2022 | title=The World's Most Powerful and Efficient Industrial-Scale Crypto Mining System to Launch at Consensus 2022 | date=June 9, 2022 |publisher=EIN News}}</ref> At the Mining Disrupt Conference in July 2022 held in Miami, FL he stated in a keynote speech his desire was to "put every miner using fossil fuels out of business."<ref>{{cite web | url=https://podcasts.apple.com/mt/podcast/greener-and-cleaner-crypto-mining-with-patrick/id1600932530?i=1000582904201 |title=Greener and Cleaner Crypto Mining with Patrick Sweeney of DaVinci 3.0 | publisher= YWhales.com| date= September 28, 2022 }}</ref>


==Writing==
==Writing==
Sweeney has authored three books: ''RFID for Dummies'' (2005), ''CompTIA RFID+ Study Guide: Exam RF0-001'' (2006), both published by [[John Wiley & Sons]] and ''Fear is Fuel: the Surprising Power to Find Purpose, Passion and Performance Performance'' published by [[Rowman & Littlefield]].
Sweeney has authored three books: ''RFID for Dummies'' (2005), ''CompTIA RFID+ Study Guide: Exam RF0-001'' (2006), both published by [[John Wiley & Sons]] and ''Fear is Fuel: the Surprising Power to Find Purpose, Passion and Performance Performance'' published by [[Rowman & Littlefield]].


''Fear is Fuel: the Surprising Power to Find Purpose, Passion and Performance Performance'' later became a bestseller and was included in March 2020 ''[[The Wall Street Journal]]'' Bestseller List.<ref>https://www.wsj.com/articles/bestselling-books-week-ended-march-14-11584642813</ref>
''Fear is Fuel: the Surprising Power to Find Purpose, Passion and Performance Performance'' later became a bestseller and was included in March 2020 ''[[The Wall Street Journal]]'' Bestseller List.<ref name="auto1"/>


== Public speaking ==
== Public speaking ==
[[File:Talks at Google Presents Patrick Sweeney.jpg|thumb|right|Talks at Google, Patrick Sweeney]]
[[File:Talks at Google Presents Patrick Sweeney.jpg|thumb|right|Talks at Google, Patrick Sweeney]]
Sweeney gave a [[TED (conference)#TEDx|TEDx]] talk at [[Eaglebrook School]], [[Deerfield, Massachusetts]] named ''The Surprising Power of Fear''.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.tedxgoodenoughcollege.com/portfolio/marisa-peer-how-to-avoid-rejection-and-get-connection/|title = TEDx at Eaglebrook School |publisher=Eaglebrook School |date = 2017-04-22 |archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20170910131907/https://www.eaglebrook.org/page/tedx-at-eaglebrook-school |archivedate = 2017-09-10 |accessdate=2017-09-26}}</ref>
Sweeney gave a [[TED (conference)#TEDx|TEDx]] talk at [[Eaglebrook School]], [[Deerfield, Massachusetts]] named ''The Surprising Power of Fear''.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.tedxgoodenoughcollege.com/portfolio/marisa-peer-how-to-avoid-rejection-and-get-connection/|title = TEDx at Eaglebrook School |publisher=Eaglebrook School |date = April 22, 2017 |archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20170910131907/https://www.eaglebrook.org/page/tedx-at-eaglebrook-school |archivedate = September 10, 2017 |accessdate=2017-09-26}}</ref>


In June 2017, Sweeney gave a [[Talks at Google|Talk at Google]] at the European Headquarters in [[Zurich]], Switzerland.
In June 2017, Sweeney gave a [[Talks at Google|Talk at Google]] at the office in [[Zürich]], Switzerland.


In July 2021, he gave another TEDx talk titled ''How to Use Fear as Fuel'' at the Pearl Street Event in [[Washington, DC]].<ref>https://www.tedxpearlstreet.com/patrick-sweeney</ref>
In July 2021, he gave another TEDx talk titled ''How to Use Fear as Fuel'' at the Pearl Street Event in Washington, DC.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.tedxpearlstreet.com/patrick-sweeney|title=Patrick Sweeney|website=TEDxPearlStreet}}</ref>


==Adventuring and athletics==
==Adventuring and athletics==
[[File:Patrick Sweeney riding across Alaska on the Iditarod Trail.jpg|thumb|right|Patrick Sweeney during the 2013 Iditarod Trail Invitational on a Borealis Fatbike]]
[[File:Patrick Sweeney riding across Alaska on the Iditarod Trail.jpg|thumb|right|Patrick Sweeney during the 2013 Iditarod Trail Invitational on a Borealis Fatbike]]
In high school, Sweeney led Keene High School to the New Hampshire state championship in cross country skiing. In college, he was part of the ski team his freshman year but failed to make the team after the first year. He took up rowing at UNH and won a national championship.<ref>https://www.pjsweeney.com/bio/</ref>
In high school, Sweeney led Keene High School to the New Hampshire state championship in cross country skiing. In college, he was part of the ski team his first year but failed to make the team after the first year. He took up rowing at UNH and won a national championship.<ref name="auto"/>


In November 2012, Sweeney and four other American tech entrepreneurs formed CoreCo/dwinQ team to compete in a three-day [[La Ruta de los Conquistadores]] race.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.cyclingnews.com/news/la-ruta-de-los-conquistadores-sticks-with-three-day-format/|author = Sue George|title= La Ruta de los Conquistadores sticks with three-day format|publisher= [[Cyclingnews.com]]|date=2012-11-20|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20130202032816/http://www.cyclingnews.com/news/la-ruta-de-los-conquistadores-sticks-with-three-day-format|archivedate = 2013-02-02 |accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref>
In November 2012, Sweeney and four other American tech entrepreneurs formed CoreCo/dwinQ team to compete in a three-day [[La Ruta de los Conquistadores]] race.<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.cyclingnews.com/news/la-ruta-de-los-conquistadores-sticks-with-three-day-format/|author = Sue George|title= La Ruta de los Conquistadores sticks with three-day format|publisher= [[Cyclingnews.com]]|date=November 20, 2012|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20130202032816/http://www.cyclingnews.com/news/la-ruta-de-los-conquistadores-sticks-with-three-day-format|archivedate = February 2, 2013 |accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref>


In September 2013, Sweeney participated in [[Haute Randonnée Pyrénéenne|Haute Route Pyrenees]].<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.independent.ie/sport/other-sports/cycling/on-the-high-road-to-hell-29582180.html|author = Ciaran Lennon|title= On the high road to hell |publisher= [[Irish Independent]]|date=2013-09-16|archiveurl = https://www.webcitation.org/6tRo1tkqv?url=http://www.independent.ie/sport/other-sports/cycling/on-the-high-road-to-hell-29582180.html|archivedate = 2017-09-13 |accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref>
In September 2013, Sweeney participated in [[Haute Randonnée Pyrénéenne|Haute Route Pyrenees]].<ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.independent.ie/sport/other-sports/cycling/on-the-high-road-to-hell-29582180.html|author = Ciaran Lennon|title= On the high road to hell |publisher= [[Irish Independent]]|date=September 16, 2013|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20170926043719/http://www.independent.ie/sport/other-sports/cycling/on-the-high-road-to-hell-29582180.html|archivedate = September 26, 2017 |url-status= live|accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref>


In February 2014, Sweeney participated in 350 miles in the [[Iditarod Trail|Iditarod Trail Invitational]] race in [[Alaska]] on his [[fatbike]].<ref>{{cite web|url= http://iditarodtrailinvitational.com/2014_race_roster.php|title= 2014 Race Roster
In February 2014, Sweeney participated in 350 miles in the [[Iditarod Trail|Iditarod Trail Invitational]] race in [[Alaska]] on his [[fatbike]].<ref>{{cite web|url= http://iditarodtrailinvitational.com/2014_race_roster.php|title= 2014 Race Roster
|publisher= IditarodTrailInvitational.com|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20161030145334/http://iditarodtrailinvitational.com/2014_race_roster.php |archivedate = 2016-10-30 |accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref>
|publisher= IditarodTrailInvitational.com|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20161030145334/http://iditarodtrailinvitational.com/2014_race_roster.php |archivedate = October 30, 2016 |accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref>


In July 2014, Sweeney went on an adventure with his nine-year-old son who attempted to break the record for the youngest person to summit [[Mont Blanc]]. They contracted British mountain guide [[Kenton Cool]] to lead the crew. On their trek toward the summit they were caught in a sliding snow [[avalanche]] and decided not to continue.<ref name="ind">{{cite web |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/american-climber-whose-children-almost-died-in-mont-blanc-avalanche-says-he-has-no-regrets-amid-9633772.html |title=American climber whose children almost died in Mont Blanc avalanche says he has 'no regrets' amid criticism |author=Lizzie Dearden |work=[[The Independent]] |date=2014-07-28 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20151028205921/http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/american-climber-whose-children-almost-died-in-mont-blanc-avalanche-says-he-has-no-regrets-amid-9633772.html |archivedate=2015-10-28 |accessdate=2017-09-25 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="figaro">{{cite web |url=http://www.lefigaro.fr/actualite-france/2014/07/28/01016-20140728ARTFIG00093-la-presence-d-enfants-alpinistes-sur-le-mont-blanc-scandalise.php |title=La présence d'enfants alpinistes sur le Mont-Blanc scandalise |author=Constance Jamet |publisher=[[Le Figaro]] |date=2014-07-28 |archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20140728150816/http://www.lefigaro.fr/actualite-france/2014/07/28/01016-20140728ARTFIG00093-la-presence-d-enfants-alpinistes-sur-le-mont-blanc-scandalise.php |archivedate = 2014-07-28 |accessdate=2017-09-25}}{{in lang|fr}}</ref> Sweeney filmed the attempt and the video was shown on ''[[Good Morning America]]'', leading to criticism, including from Jean-Marc Peillex, mayor of the Saint-Gervais municipality in France for taking children on dangerous trips.<ref>{{Cite web|date=2014-07-27|title=French mayor files complaint against US dad who scaled Mont Blanc with kids|url=https://www.france24.com/en/20140727-american-dad-mont-blanc-children-mayor-sweeny-abc|access-date=2020-07-13|website=France 24|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/jul/28/us-mountaineer-condemned-filming-children-mont-blanc-avalanche |title= US climber condemned for filming his children in Mont Blanc avalanche |author = Anne Penketh|date = 2014-07-28|work= [[The Guardian]]|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20140820165623/http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/jul/28/us-mountaineer-condemned-filming-children-mont-blanc-avalanche |archivedate = 2014-08-20 |accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref>
In July 2014, Sweeney went on an adventure with his nine-year-old son who attempted to break the record for the youngest person to summit [[Mont Blanc]]. They contracted British mountain guide [[Kenton Cool]] to lead the crew. On their trek toward the summit they were caught in a sliding snow [[avalanche]] and decided not to continue.<ref name="ind">{{cite web |url=https://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/american-climber-whose-children-almost-died-in-mont-blanc-avalanche-says-he-has-no-regrets-amid-9633772.html |title=American climber whose children almost died in Mont Blanc avalanche says he has 'no regrets' amid criticism |author=Lizzie Dearden |work=[[The Independent]] |date=July 28, 2014 |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20151028205921/http://www.independent.co.uk/news/world/europe/american-climber-whose-children-almost-died-in-mont-blanc-avalanche-says-he-has-no-regrets-amid-9633772.html |archivedate=2015-10-28 |accessdate=2017-09-25 |url-status=live }}</ref><ref name="figaro">{{cite web |url=http://www.lefigaro.fr/actualite-france/2014/07/28/01016-20140728ARTFIG00093-la-presence-d-enfants-alpinistes-sur-le-mont-blanc-scandalise.php |title=La présence d'enfants alpinistes sur le Mont-Blanc scandalise |author=Constance Jamet |publisher=[[Le Figaro]] |date=July 28, 2014 |archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20140728150816/http://www.lefigaro.fr/actualite-france/2014/07/28/01016-20140728ARTFIG00093-la-presence-d-enfants-alpinistes-sur-le-mont-blanc-scandalise.php |archivedate = July 28, 2014 |accessdate=2017-09-25}}{{in lang|fr}}</ref> Sweeney filmed the attempt and the video was shown on ''[[Good Morning America]]'', leading to criticism, including from Jean-Marc Peillex, mayor of the Saint-Gervais municipality in France for taking children on dangerous trips.<ref>{{Cite web|date=July 27, 2014|title=French mayor files complaint against US dad who scaled Mont Blanc with kids|url=https://www.france24.com/en/20140727-american-dad-mont-blanc-children-mayor-sweeny-abc|access-date=2020-07-13|website=France 24|language=en}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/jul/28/us-mountaineer-condemned-filming-children-mont-blanc-avalanche |title= US climber condemned for filming his children in Mont Blanc avalanche |author = Anne Penketh|date = July 28, 2014|work= [[The Guardian]]|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20140820165623/http://www.theguardian.com/world/2014/jul/28/us-mountaineer-condemned-filming-children-mont-blanc-avalanche |archivedate = August 20, 2014 |accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref>
[[File:Adventurer Patrick Sweeney.jpg|thumb|right|Patrick Sweeney ski mountaineering over the Col du Passon in Chamonix France in 2019.]]
[[File:Adventurer Patrick Sweeney.jpg|thumb|right|Patrick Sweeney ski mountaineering over the Col du Passon in Chamonix France in 2019.]]


In 2015, Sweeney started an attempt to become the first person to summit the [[Seven Summits|highest mountain on each continent]] and then ride down. On February 24, 2015 after a 6-day ride starting from Lukla, he reached South [[Everest Base Camp|Base Camp]] in [[Nepal]] by bike, setting a world record.<ref>
In 2015, Sweeney started an attempt to become the first person to summit the [[Seven Summits|highest mountain on each continent]] and then ride down. On February 24, 2015, after a 6-day ride starting from Lukla, he reached South [[Everest Base Camp|Base Camp]] in Nepal by bike, setting a world record.<ref>
{{cite web |url= http://www.europastar.com/news/1004087857-patrick-sweeney-establishes-world-first-on-the.html |title= Alpina Watches Ambassador Patrick Sweeney Establishes World First on the Everest |publisher= EuropaStar.com |date = 2015-03-11 |archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20170505113742/http://www.europastar.com/news/1004087857-patrick-sweeney-establishes-world-first-on-the.html |archivedate = 2017-05-05 |accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref> The record was questioned by other mountain bikers, but Sweeney argues that he is the first mountain biker to reach base camp on the "more difficult" Nepali side with official permits and permission from the Nepalese government.<ref name="october">{{cite web |url= http://www.summitdaily.com/news/sports/setting-the-record-straight-on-mount-everest-mountain-biking/ |title= Setting the record straight on Mount Everest mountain biking |author = Phil Lindeman |publisher= Summit Daily |date = 2015-10-13 |archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20170913192306/http://www.summitdaily.com/news/sports/setting-the-record-straight-on-mount-everest-mountain-biking/ |archivedate = 2017-09-13|accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref>
{{cite web |url= http://www.europastar.com/news/1004087857-patrick-sweeney-establishes-world-first-on-the.html |title= Alpina Watches Ambassador Patrick Sweeney Establishes World First on the Everest |publisher= EuropaStar.com |date = March 11, 2015 |archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20170505113742/http://www.europastar.com/news/1004087857-patrick-sweeney-establishes-world-first-on-the.html |archivedate = May 5, 2017 |accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref> The record was questioned by other mountain bikers, but Sweeney argues that he is the first mountain biker to reach base camp on the "more difficult" Nepali side with official permits and permission from the Nepalese government.<ref name="october">{{cite web |url= http://www.summitdaily.com/news/sports/setting-the-record-straight-on-mount-everest-mountain-biking/ |title= Setting the record straight on Mount Everest mountain biking |author = Phil Lindeman |publisher= Summit Daily |date = October 13, 2015 |archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20170913192306/http://www.summitdaily.com/news/sports/setting-the-record-straight-on-mount-everest-mountain-biking/ |archivedate = September 13, 2017|accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref>


In 2016, Sweeney teamed up with endurance mountain biker and adventure racer, [[Rebecca Rusch]], to summit [[Mount Kilimanjaro]] and raise funds and awareness for [[World Bicycle Relief]].<ref name="idaho">{{cite web |url= http://www.idahostatesman.com/outdoors/playing-outdoors/article62133677.html |title= Playing Outdoors: Idaho woman hikes, bikes Kilimanjaro for charity |author = Chadd Cripe |publisher= [[Idaho Statesman]] |date = 2016-02-23 |archiveurl = https://www.webcitation.org/6tSF9jR3t?url=http://www.idahostatesman.com/outdoors/playing-outdoors/article62133677.html |archivedate = 2017-09-13 |accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.independent.com/news/2016/jul/05/climbing-kilimanjaro-bike/ |title= Climbing Kilimanjaro by Bike|author = Andie Bridges|publisher= [[Santa Barbara Independent]]|date = 2016-07-05|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20160706152317/http://www.independent.com/news/2016/jul/05/climbing-kilimanjaro-bike/|archivedate = 2016-07-06 |accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref> The journey started on February 21 and lasted for six days.<ref name="idaho" /> Sweeney and Rusch started their ascent at 6000 feet, went to the top both by foot and on a bike and rode bikes down to the bottom.<ref name="out">{{cite web|url= https://www.outsideonline.com/2073346/summiting-mount-kilimanjaro-bike-hard-it-looks |title= Summiting Mount Kilimanjaro on a Bike Is as Hard as It Looks |author = Patrick Sweeney |publisher= [[Outside (magazine)|Outside]]|date = 2016-05-02 |archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20170913210830/https://www.outsideonline.com/2073346/summiting-mount-kilimanjaro-bike-hard-it-looks |archivedate = 2017-09-13 |accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref>
In 2016, Sweeney teamed up with endurance mountain biker and adventure racer, [[Rebecca Rusch]], to summit [[Mount Kilimanjaro]] and raise funds and awareness for [[World Bicycle Relief]].<ref name="idaho">{{cite web |url= http://www.idahostatesman.com/outdoors/playing-outdoors/article62133677.html |title= Playing Outdoors: Idaho woman hikes, bikes Kilimanjaro for charity |author = Chadd Cripe |publisher= [[Idaho Statesman]] |date = February 23, 2016 |archiveurl = https://archive.today/20240528062352/https://www.webcitation.org/6tSF9jR3t?url=http://www.idahostatesman.com/outdoors/playing-outdoors/article62133677.html |archivedate = May 28, 2024 |url-status= live |accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.independent.com/news/2016/jul/05/climbing-kilimanjaro-bike/ |title= Climbing Kilimanjaro by Bike|author = Andie Bridges|publisher= [[Santa Barbara Independent]]|date = July 5, 2016|archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20160706152317/http://www.independent.com/news/2016/jul/05/climbing-kilimanjaro-bike/|archivedate = July 6, 2016 |accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref> The journey started on February 21 and lasted for six days.<ref name="idaho" /> Sweeney and Rusch started their ascent at 6000 feet, went to the top both by foot and on a bike and rode bikes down to the bottom.<ref name="out">{{cite news|url= https://www.outsideonline.com/2073346/summiting-mount-kilimanjaro-bike-hard-it-looks |title= Summiting Mount Kilimanjaro on a Bike Is as Hard as It Looks |author = Patrick Sweeney |newspaper= Outside Online |publisher= [[Outside (magazine)|Outside]]|date = May 2, 2016 |archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20170913210830/https://www.outsideonline.com/2073346/summiting-mount-kilimanjaro-bike-hard-it-looks |archivedate = September 13, 2017 |accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref>


During summer 2016, Sweeney climbed [[Mount Elbrus]] with his 11-year-old son. His son was not able to make it to the top, but Sweeney reached the summit becoming the first to bring a mountain bike to the top and descended to the base camp on a [[fatbike]].<ref name="elb">{{cite web
During summer 2016, Sweeney climbed [[Mount Elbrus]] with his 11-year-old son. His son was not able to make it to the top, but Sweeney reached the summit becoming the first to bring a mountain bike to the top and descended to the base camp on a [[fatbike]].<ref name="elb">{{cite web
|url= https://www.outsideonline.com/2196251/climbing-mount-elbrus-11-year-old|title= Riding Mount Elbrus with an 11-Year-Old|publisher= [[Outside (magazine)|Outside]] |date = 2017-07-10 |archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20170714183444/https://www.outsideonline.com/2196251/climbing-mount-elbrus-11-year-old |archivedate = 2017-07-14 |accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref> The incident was the subject of a documentary film which was published by ''Outside Magazine'' and won the [[Moscow International Film Festival]] category for best story.<ref>https://www.outsideonline.com/video/climbing-mount-elbrus-11-year-old/</ref>
|url= https://www.outsideonline.com/2196251/climbing-mount-elbrus-11-year-old|title= Riding Mount Elbrus with an 11-Year-Old|publisher= [[Outside (magazine)|Outside]] |date = July 10, 2017 |archiveurl = https://web.archive.org/web/20170714183444/https://www.outsideonline.com/2196251/climbing-mount-elbrus-11-year-old |archivedate = July 14, 2017 |accessdate=2017-09-25}}</ref> The incident was the subject of a documentary film which was published by ''Outside Magazine'' and won the [[Moscow International Film Festival]] category for best story.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.outsideonline.com/video/climbing-mount-elbrus-11-year-old/|title=Riding Mount Elbrus with an 11-Year-Old|date=May 17, 2022 }}</ref>


In 2018, Sweeney won the [[Race Across America]] (RAAM) in the Mixed 4-Person under 50 Category riding a bicycle non-stop from Oceanside, Californian to Annapolis, Maryland.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.mensjournal.com/adventure/this-man-won-race-across-america-with-the-keto-diet-and-power-naps/|title=How This Man Survived (And Won) Race Across America|date=19 July 2018}}</ref>
In 2018, Sweeney won the [[Race Across America]] (RAAM) in the Mixed 4-Person under 50 Category riding a bicycle non-stop from Oceanside, Californian to Annapolis, Maryland.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.mensjournal.com/adventure/this-man-won-race-across-america-with-the-keto-diet-and-power-naps/|title=How This Man Survived (And Won) Race Across America|newspaper=Men's Journal |date=July 19, 2018}}</ref>


== Bibliography ==
== Bibliography ==
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[[Category:American mountain bikers]]
[[Category:American mountain bikers]]
[[Category:Travel broadcasters]]
[[Category:Travel broadcasters]]
[[Category:21st-century American travel writers]]

Latest revision as of 00:06, 7 October 2024

For other people named Patrick Sweeney, see Patrick Sweeney.

Patrick Sweeney
Born
Patrick J. Sweeney II

(1966-11-09) November 9, 1966 (age 58)
Boston, Massachusetts, United States
NationalityAmerican
Alma materUniversity of New Hampshire
University of Virginia
Occupation(s)Author
adventurer
entrepreneur
Years active1998–present
SpouseChristen Sweeney[1]
Websitewww.pjsweeney.com

Patrick J. Sweeney, II (born November 9, 1970) is an American entrepreneur, adventurer, and author.[2] He is the author of three books including a Wall Street Journal Bestseller, Fear is Fuel: The Surprising Power to Find Purpose, Passion and Performance, and RFID for Dummies.[3]

Sweeney was the first person to attempt cycling the Seven Summits, and holds a world record for being the first person to officially cycle to Everest Base Camp and the first person to cycle Mount Elbrus.[4][5]

Early life and education

[edit]

Patrick J. Sweeney II was born in November 9, 1970, in Boston to first-generation Irish immigrants.[6] His father worked three jobs while his mother took care of the children.[6] In 1982 they settled in Keene.

Sweeney enrolled in the University of New Hampshire[6] where he took up rowing and was crew captain.[6] He was the lead oarsman (stroke) on a four-man team that won the Dad Vail National Championship.

Sweeney also participated in the World Cup as a single sculler and two Olympic trials where he finished 14th in 1992[6] and 2nd in 1996[6] in the single scull (one man rowing).[7] He retired in 1996 after winning the Royal Canadian Henley Regatta in the "Men's Elite Single" category.[8]

In 1998, Sweeney earned an MBA from Darden Graduate School of Business Administration.[9]

In 2002, Sweeney attended summer school at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology specifically at the auto-ID center for the Internet of Things (IoT), electronic Product Code and RFID.[10]

Career

[edit]

Sweeney had his first job when he was in high school and started working part-time in Boston, Massachusetts.[10] Upon graduating from the University of New Hampshire, he worked for four entrepreneurs in Bedford, New Hampshire, building houses, hotels, and restaurants, before leaving to train full time as an athlete.[10]

Sweeney did an internship at Trammell Crow Company.[11] In October 1999, he started a company, ServerVault, which provides ultra-secure web hosting facilities.[11] The company was started with an initial investment of $750,000 from angel investors, including the Dave Matthews Band.[11] In 2000, the company opened data centers in the United States and Ireland.[12] In 2002, it was sold to Western & Southern Capital and later in 2009 to Carpathia Hosting.[13]

In 2002, Sweeney and co-inventor of Electronic Product Code (EPC) protocol Daniel Engels started ODIN Technologies.[14] It became dominant in RFID technology.[15] In January 2013, the company was acquired by Quake Global.[16] ODIN has completed over 500 RFID projects for clients including the US Department of Defense.[10] At the 2009 RFID Journal Awards, ODIN won best-in-show for its patented Smart Container.[17]

In 2010, Sweeney received one of seven Small Business Administration (SBA) Awards for Innovation, awarded by President Barack Obama.[18]

In January 2013, Sweeney spun out a new company, named dwinQ, which is a live event social media company.[19] Their first major project was the development of the Epic Mix system for Vail Resorts.

Sweeney launched a company in June 2022 which claims to build the world's most powerful bitcoin miner that can only be used on renewable energy. The specifications indicate a single miner produces 9 Petahash (one quadrillion hashes per second) of computing power.[20] At the Mining Disrupt Conference in July 2022 held in Miami, FL he stated in a keynote speech his desire was to "put every miner using fossil fuels out of business."[21]

Writing

[edit]

Sweeney has authored three books: RFID for Dummies (2005), CompTIA RFID+ Study Guide: Exam RF0-001 (2006), both published by John Wiley & Sons and Fear is Fuel: the Surprising Power to Find Purpose, Passion and Performance Performance published by Rowman & Littlefield.

Fear is Fuel: the Surprising Power to Find Purpose, Passion and Performance Performance later became a bestseller and was included in March 2020 The Wall Street Journal Bestseller List.[3]

Public speaking

[edit]
Talks at Google, Patrick Sweeney

Sweeney gave a TEDx talk at Eaglebrook School, Deerfield, Massachusetts named The Surprising Power of Fear.[22]

In June 2017, Sweeney gave a Talk at Google at the office in Zürich, Switzerland.

In July 2021, he gave another TEDx talk titled How to Use Fear as Fuel at the Pearl Street Event in Washington, DC.[23]

Adventuring and athletics

[edit]
Patrick Sweeney during the 2013 Iditarod Trail Invitational on a Borealis Fatbike

In high school, Sweeney led Keene High School to the New Hampshire state championship in cross country skiing. In college, he was part of the ski team his first year but failed to make the team after the first year. He took up rowing at UNH and won a national championship.[18]

In November 2012, Sweeney and four other American tech entrepreneurs formed CoreCo/dwinQ team to compete in a three-day La Ruta de los Conquistadores race.[24]

In September 2013, Sweeney participated in Haute Route Pyrenees.[25]

In February 2014, Sweeney participated in 350 miles in the Iditarod Trail Invitational race in Alaska on his fatbike.[26]

In July 2014, Sweeney went on an adventure with his nine-year-old son who attempted to break the record for the youngest person to summit Mont Blanc. They contracted British mountain guide Kenton Cool to lead the crew. On their trek toward the summit they were caught in a sliding snow avalanche and decided not to continue.[27][28] Sweeney filmed the attempt and the video was shown on Good Morning America, leading to criticism, including from Jean-Marc Peillex, mayor of the Saint-Gervais municipality in France for taking children on dangerous trips.[29][30]

Patrick Sweeney ski mountaineering over the Col du Passon in Chamonix France in 2019.

In 2015, Sweeney started an attempt to become the first person to summit the highest mountain on each continent and then ride down. On February 24, 2015, after a 6-day ride starting from Lukla, he reached South Base Camp in Nepal by bike, setting a world record.[31] The record was questioned by other mountain bikers, but Sweeney argues that he is the first mountain biker to reach base camp on the "more difficult" Nepali side with official permits and permission from the Nepalese government.[4]

In 2016, Sweeney teamed up with endurance mountain biker and adventure racer, Rebecca Rusch, to summit Mount Kilimanjaro and raise funds and awareness for World Bicycle Relief.[32][33] The journey started on February 21 and lasted for six days.[32] Sweeney and Rusch started their ascent at 6000 feet, went to the top both by foot and on a bike and rode bikes down to the bottom.[34]

During summer 2016, Sweeney climbed Mount Elbrus with his 11-year-old son. His son was not able to make it to the top, but Sweeney reached the summit becoming the first to bring a mountain bike to the top and descended to the base camp on a fatbike.[5] The incident was the subject of a documentary film which was published by Outside Magazine and won the Moscow International Film Festival category for best story.[35]

In 2018, Sweeney won the Race Across America (RAAM) in the Mixed 4-Person under 50 Category riding a bicycle non-stop from Oceanside, Californian to Annapolis, Maryland.[36]

Bibliography

[edit]
  • Sweeney, Patrick (2005). RFID for Dummies
  • Sweeney, Patrick (2006). CompTIA RFID+Study Guide: Exam RF0-001
  • Sweeney, Patrick (2020). Fear Is Fuel: The Surprising Power to Help You Find Purpose, Passion, and Performance

References

[edit]
  1. ^ Debbie Schipp (July 20, 2014). "Risk rocks, say the new breed of anti-helicopter parents". News.com.au. Archived from the original on September 10, 2017. Retrieved September 25, 2017.
  2. ^ Lukas Eberle and Victoria Weidemann (July 28, 2014). "'Snow! Snow! Get Moving!': The Lethal Lure of Mont Blanc". Spiegel Online. Archived from the original on October 1, 2014. Retrieved September 25, 2017.
  3. ^ a b "Bestselling Books Week Ended March 14". Wall Street Journal. March 19, 2020 – via www.wsj.com.
  4. ^ a b Phil Lindeman (October 13, 2015). "Setting the record straight on Mount Everest mountain biking". Summit Daily. Archived from the original on September 13, 2017. Retrieved September 25, 2017.
  5. ^ a b "Riding Mount Elbrus with an 11-Year-Old". Outside. July 10, 2017. Archived from the original on July 14, 2017. Retrieved September 25, 2017.
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  14. ^ Andrea Caumont (September 20, 2004). "Odin Technologies Aims to Be the Chief of RFID". The Washington Post. Washington, D.C. ISSN 0190-8286. OCLC 1330888409.
  15. ^ Mitch Mac Donald (September 1, 2007). "He's no dummy: interview with Patrick Sweeney". dcvelocity.com. Archived from the original on September 14, 2017. Retrieved September 26, 2017.
  16. ^ "Quake Global Acquires RFID Solutions Designer ODIN Technologies". San Diego Business Journal. January 24, 2014. Archived from the original on December 5, 2016. Retrieved September 25, 2017.
  17. ^ "Past Winners | RFID Journal Awards". rfidjournalawards.com. August 8, 2019.
  18. ^ a b "Patrick Sweeney – motivational & inspirational virtual or live speaker WSJ Best Seller".
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  20. ^ "The World's Most Powerful and Efficient Industrial-Scale Crypto Mining System to Launch at Consensus 2022". EIN News. June 9, 2022.
  21. ^ "Greener and Cleaner Crypto Mining with Patrick Sweeney of DaVinci 3.0". YWhales.com. September 28, 2022.
  22. ^ "TEDx at Eaglebrook School". Eaglebrook School. April 22, 2017. Archived from the original on September 10, 2017. Retrieved September 26, 2017.
  23. ^ "Patrick Sweeney". TEDxPearlStreet.
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  34. ^ Patrick Sweeney (May 2, 2016). "Summiting Mount Kilimanjaro on a Bike Is as Hard as It Looks". Outside Online. Outside. Archived from the original on September 13, 2017. Retrieved September 25, 2017.
  35. ^ "Riding Mount Elbrus with an 11-Year-Old". May 17, 2022.
  36. ^ "How This Man Survived (And Won) Race Across America". Men's Journal. July 19, 2018.
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