Does this look like a good time? Than the UW climbing club might just be the club for you.
The Climbing Club at the University of Wyoming has flourished at times, but at other times has barely had enough members to function since its founding in Feb. 2011. The co-ed club, which started with around 30 members, has dwindled down to about 10, said member Brian Horlick.
The news is not all bad, though. It is mainly a spring club. During the second semester, they compete and, if the weather allows, climb outdoors on real rocks. Sport climbing and bouldering are just two of the types of climbing these thrill seekers do.
“We try to get a little bit of everything though,” Horlick said.
As a part of the Rocky Mountain Division, the club travels to neighboring states like Colorado to compete. In the spring, they will compete in the Collegiate Climbing Series, the equivalent of a club sports competition. CCS is a part of USA Climbing.
Five members traveled and competed with the club last year, and UW was represented well at the competition, as three individuals placed in the top four.
Haley Royko placed first in the beginner’s competition. Teammate Joey Pedone placed fourth in the open competition. Horlick competed in the intermediate competition and finished second.
The Outdoor Program, along with other sponsors, offers the Friday Night Bouldering Series, where climbers can gather for some friendly competition.
When the renovation of Half Acre begins, the series will be postponed. Part of the renovation project includes a new climbing wall, and when the project is complete, Friday Night Bouldering will resume. The Climbing Club hopes to host some competitions with neighboring schools once the new wall is complete.
The next Friday Night Bouldering series will be Oct. 5 for interested students, and the club also welcomes all interested members of the campus community. Beginners are more than welcome, along with more experienced and advanced-level climbers. Students are encouraged to join for the fun, exciting and extreme sporting experience.
