I live in the United States with my wife Janelle and boys Lucas (10) and Axel (6). I’ve been a dedicated climber since the early 1990’s. I acquired my first hangboard in 1997 as an occasional 5.11 redpointer and immediately began researching and experimenting with training. From these humble beginnings I’ve progressed steadily to 5.14 redpoints and 5.13 onsights. I am a strong proponent of expanding the horizons of free climbing, especially on long multi-pitch routes. Some of my First Free Ascents include Touchstone Wall (5.13, IV), Space Shot (5.13 IV) and Thunderbird Wall (5.13 VI) in Zion, UT, and Arcturus (5.13, VI) on Yosemite’s Half Dome. Since expanding my family and moving east for school and work, I haven’t had many opportunities for long trad climbing, so I’ve shifted my focus to sport climbing and bouldering. My favorite crags are Smith Rock, Zion, the Red River Gorge, and Lander, Wyoming (it’s hard to choose though).
While climbing is a big part of my life, it’s not the only part, and I believe firmly in the principle of “all things in moderation”. Professionally, I’m an Aeronautical Engineer, and my work has included developing robotic systems. I’m an officer in the US Air Force, a challenging career which requires patience at times, but has allowed me a decent amount of freedom to live my life on my terms, and has forced me to experience things I wouldn’t ordinarily “volunteer” for. In addition to climbing, I love photography (especially wildlife & landscape), mountain biking, skiing, hiking and running. I love football; my favorite teams are the Chicago Bears (I don’t know why either), Air Force, Utah, Oregon and Oregon State, and any teams playing the SEC or the Green Bay Packers. I like Bruce Springsteen, Eminem and Waylon Jennings. My favorite color is blue.
Contact him at https://rockclimberstrainingmanual.com/
