Who are you? Where are you from? What do you do in the gym?

Hi, I’m Naomi! I moved to Fort Collins from Manitou Springs about 8 years ago for college and have chosen to stay here. I’m a coach for the comp team here at Whetstone and I’ve worked in indoor climbing since 2019. I’ve been a routesetter, personal trainer, adult coach, front deskee, and general programs person. Outside of coaching, I work with Climbing Business Journal and try to spend a lot of time outside.

When not a Whetstone, where might we find you?

Outside, falling on boulders. Right now, somewhere in RMNP. Other seasons, somewhere in the Poudre or Joe’s Valley.

A favorite non-climbing activity?

Anything active and/or outside! I love hangboarding, lifting, yoga, going on walks, and gardening. I also try to read a lot.

Have any projects? Climbing or Non-Climbing?

Right now, my big project is planning a wedding with my fiancé, who I met while coaching together at Whetstone.

How did you get involved with the gym?

It was a while ago – 2019 – so it’s a little fuzzy. But I remember a couple climbing with two very small, very strong kids, and started talking to them. It turns out I was talking to Darrell and started seeing him around the gym more. Eventually I asked if there was a coaching position available.

Best thing about FoCo / NoCo:

The proximity to boulders and the distinct seasons.

What’s a low-key flex you can boast about?

I can always sleep on airplanes, no matter the time of day or how tired I am. I’ve slept through take offs and landings. As soon as I sit down, I am out.

Favorite spot to recreate in.

I love to be up in the park, it’s so beautiful and different every day. Joe’s Valley is also a really special place to me.

How does climbing foster community?

Climbing, especially bouldering, encourages climbers to talk to each other and figure out problem together, eventually leading to more interaction. A lot of my good friends were once just people working on a boulder with me.

What has climbing taught you?

Greater self-discipline and persistence

Climbing in five words... Go!

“All roads lead to bouldering!” – Matt Robbin

Favorite climbing style?

30-45 degree high-angle crimping