Apocketlipto v5

“... I didn’t like the idea of competing.” Do you remember your first time climbing outside? The first time going to a gym? Unless you grew up in the area and have an established crew, it can be incredibly intimidating. The first outdoor competition in a new area has that same intimidation factor, with the extra pressure of performance. Thankfully, the SCC put on a month-long competition, which allows time to acclimate, learn the area and make new friends, and they provide equitable access scholarships to encourage participation from underrepresented populations (which adds even more intimidation!). Today, we continue Ruth’s story and are so thankful to the SCC for making such amazing experiences possible and allowing us to get to know such incredible humans. “I know where my projects are (haha) but I am not familiar with much beyond that at an area. Because outdoor comps mean you have to know where at least 10 climbs are at (that you’ve probably done before), and I’m just not comfortable going to up random people and asking for directions or to tag along (I know some POC + women are, but I’m not), I didn’t like the idea of competing.” Climber: @rutherford Photo: @Spicy