After 7 years, I’ve stepped down as chair of the Climbing Clan. It’s been a wild ride since 2017, and I’m feeling ALL the feels.
From zero to hero: We started with no skills, no members, no experience, no contacts, and no money. Now? We’re a thriving community of rock stars (pun intended).
Proud parent moment: Watching members go from learning to belay to mastering trad climbing has been incredible. You’ve all grown so much, and I’ve grown right alongside you.
Personal growth spurt: This club pushed me to learn and share skills I never thought I’d have. It even led me to programming, which is now my career. Talk about unexpected plot twists!
Favorite memories: Every minute on the Isle of Skye, trips to Ty Powder in Snowdonia, and that “character-building” Lake District trip to a less-than-ideal hut near Coniston.
To the new committee: Share the load, welcome newcomers, and remember you were once new too. Be bold, do things differently, and keep that supportive vibe going.
Why now? Well, having a tiny human changes things. But I’m not disappearing – I’ll be here like a proud parent, ready with a shoulder to lean on and cheering from the sidelines.
To everyone who’s been part of this journey: THANK YOU. You’ve made the Climbing Clan more than a club – it’s a community where people have found friends, partners, and even future “Climbing Clan babies” (though the Caving Crew beat us to it!).
Keep climbing, keep supporting each other, and keep the Clan spirit alive. I can’t wait to see where you take it next.
[photos from the recent AGM feat James]
Originally posted on this post on Instagram
