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| Katie (left) with her good friend and Steepteam alumni, Kim, topping out Beartooth terrain in sandals |
Where are you from? and why did you move to Billings?
I’m from the PNW! (Washington). I moved here after taking some time off school just to adventure and experience something new! I’ve been here for a little more than two years now. It’s a great place.
What are you studying at MSU-B? and what are your post college goals (as of now)
I’m an Environmental Studies Major. Post college… a van and probably hit the road for a while… a lot of climbing and travelling. Probably live in Canada too.
Tell us about your climbing experience?
I’ve been climbing for about 4 years now. I tried climbing for the first time back at Eastern Washington and it was love. I was mostly on ropes when I first started, now, I’m a fan of some good ol’ fashion pebble wrestling. I’d say it fits my ability in climbing better, I just love how much problem solving and pure power there is in a hard boulder route.
What is your coaching experience?
I haven’t had a ton, but I’ve coached soccer and basketball for little tiny kids. I really enjoyed it. I’m excited to coach something that I am really passionate about and to learn some things from Dillon.
What motivates you to climb hard?
Climbing is so cool because you always progress, even when it doesn’t seem like it. I push because I want to climb strong and I want to see how far I can push myself. It’s a test for me physically and mentally. I’m not a fan of chasing grades but it’s certainly a motivator when I’m out there.
What's unique about Billings climbing?
The community! When I first moved here I had NO friends. Not even kidding. I walked into SteepWorld and it was so cool because I was instantly welcomed and was absorbed into this group of really neat people. I’ve never met a community quite like this one and I absolutely love it! I also am really impressed with the amount of climbing we have right in town. Haven’t been to many places with an opportunity like that.
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| Katie wrestling with Rocky Top Orange Soda V5 up near Water Tower |
What are your favorite routes / boulder problems in Billings? and why?
Tough one. There are a few that I’ve been working on here and there, the Billings classics like Mega Arete and Rocky Top. Those have been so difficult for me but really fun to try hard on.
Your favorite place to climb outside of Billings?
I have to say…. Deep Creek. Just outside of Spokane WA. I’ve never tried so hard on a sport route as I have there. It’s literally an outdoor gym that you can just throw yourself around on. Steep, long and hard.
What else do you value in life?
I really love being outdoors. Being an environmental major has also kind of just opened my eyes to really appreciate what’s around us. I value nature and everything that it offers us, especially climbing! You can call me a tree hugger.
Anything else you'd like to share with us?
I’m pretty psyched to be apart of SteepTeam as an assistant coach! I love watching progress in other people, and being able to help that progress makes it even cooler. I am so excited to see what the season has in store for us!
