About Byron

My Climbing Journey

I started climbing at 38, which some might consider a late start in a sport often dominated by younger athletes. But that "late start" has given me a unique perspective on climbing - one that values patience, celebrates incremental progress, and proves that age is just a number when it comes to pursuing your passions.

For the past 7 years, climbing has been my obsession. What began as curiosity has evolved into a lifestyle that shapes how I spend my weekends, who I connect with, and how I challenge myself both physically and mentally.

My Home Crags

I'm based in Kelowna, BC, and I couldn't ask for a better climbing playground. The Okanagan has become my outdoor classroom, with the Boulderfields and Cougar Canyon serving as my primary training grounds. These areas have taught me everything from basic technique to reading rock and pushing my limits on challenging problems.

From Bouldering to Sport

Bouldering has been my primary focus since I started. There's something pure about it – just you, the rock, and a crash pad. No ropes, no partners needed, just problem-solving in its rawest form. But lately, I've felt the pull toward sport climbing. The endurance component, the exposure, and the technical rope work represent a new frontier I'm eager to explore.

This transition is exactly the kind of journey I want to share through this blog. The struggles, the breakthroughs, the gear decisions, and everything in between.

Why This Blog?

I created this blog because I wish I'd had a resource like this when I started. Someone who could speak to the experience of coming to climbing later in life, navigating the learning curve without the fearlessness of youth, and building strength and technique from scratch as an adult.

Whether you're thinking about trying climbing for the first time at 30, 40, 50, or beyond, or you're an experienced climber curious about the Okanagan scene, I hope you'll find something valuable here. My goal is to share honest insights, practical tips, local beta, and maybe inspire a few people to start their own climbing journey – regardless of age.

Let's Connect

Climbing is as much about community as it is about personal achievement. If you're in the Kelowna area and want to share beta, meet up for a session, or just talk climbing over coffee, I'd love to hear from you. Feel free to reach out through the contact page or catch me at the Boulderfields on a typical weekend!