by KELSEY OHLEGER
Intern Lifestyles Reporter

While walking to class, it is not unusual to have a cyclist whiz past you.

It is recently not uncommon to be passed by a cyclist with only one wheel.

Alumnus Patrick J. Peacock is frequently seen riding his unicycle across campus.

After researching, Peacock bought a unicycle online about five years ago. It is his primary mode of transportation.

Appalachian State University alumnus Patrick J. Peacock, an experienced unicyclist, rides frequently around campus as his primary mode of transportation. Photo by Tommy Penick

He is certainly not a stranger to unique hobbies as he also enjoys activities such as whitewater kayaking, sailing, slacklining, spelunking, diabolo, hacky sack, disc golf and swing dancing

Peacock’s goal is to absorb himself in a new hobby about every six months. This objective began his passion for unicycling.

With a firm grip on the chain link fence of a tennis court, Peacock began teaching himself this new hobby.

He centered himself on the seat and began moving one pedal revolution at a time.

Aside from online videos and tutorials, he is a self-taught unicyclist.

Many years of practicing yoga and slacklining may be a factor in his easy transition to unicycling, but he believes anyone has the ability to obtain a good sense of balance.

“Balance, for anybody, is just taking the time to work on it. I don’t feel like I have extraordinary balance because it’s innate, but rather just practiced,” he said.

Now, five months later, Peacock can be found riding around campus with ease.

“It has definitely made me more aware of where the stairs and handicap accessible ramps are located,” Peacock said. “I have found out that we have a very convoluted campus as far as using ramps. You have to go way out of your way to get anywhere.”

Although may cause a struggle, the hills of the mountainous campus are not too difficult for him to ride.

While going downhill is trouble-free, pedaling uphill is strenuous, Peacock said.

He continues to challenge himself by riding mountain biking trails on his unicycle. He currently rides alone, but believes it would be better to find a fellow unicyclist to ride trails together and encourages students to begin new hobbies.

“In general, I wish more people would get out and try new hobbies,” Peacock said. “If you have questions, if you want to learn something new, just ask.”

Peacock graduated from Appalachian in December 2006 with a degree in English and recreational management.

On his three days off each week, he enjoys returning to Boone and spending time on campus with friends to practice his many hobbies, but as years pass he recognizes changes to the atmosphere at Appalachian.

“It’s a rare day to find the place packed, and it used to be you could barely find a place to throw a frisbee, it seems that fewer and fewer people are getting outside to play. Instead of spending so much time drinking beer or playing video games, get outside and enjoy the weather.”

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