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This episode is a proper mix of silly and seriousness, as we talk to Mike Penney, director of the Ontario Alliance of Climbers, who is currently pushing back on the government’s regulations threatening access to 75% of Ontario rock climbing, and even going so far as to actively chop bolts from cliffs. This a big deal, and worthy of the climbing community’s attention and energy, even if you’re not from Canada. The cliffs of Ontario are in close proximity to many midwestern climbers and our friends up north need our support to help keep climbing across Ontario open.
But first, Chris and Andrew look to Taylor Swift and her fans for inspiration on a hot new piece of gear that we predict will “change” the climbing nation — PUN INTENDED! Introducing the Walldies. You won’t want to miss them.
Last, RunOut RopeGun Nick De Haas sprays down his buddy, for which he’ll be receiving a Yeti Yonder water bottle. If you have some Buddy Spray, join us on Patreon for details on how to submit your entry.
Show Notes
Help support the access fight for Ontario climbing here: https://climbinparks.ca/
Follow Mike Penney and the Ontario Alliance of Climbers on Insta.
3 responses to “RunOut #106: Taylor Swift and Walldies. Plus: Ontario’s Climbing Nightmare”
Just wanted to let you know that Waldies are real. Lol kind of.
I was climbing a 5.5 next to Bonnie’s roof at the gunks and these older guys showed up with backpacks and a few racks, One in bike shorts. One of them put on a harness and was getting racked up and waiting for his partner to check him and get him on belay. I didn’t realize the climber didn’t have leg loops on his harness until he said “ let me slip into something more comfortable” as he pulled his shorts off. I don’t know what the deal was but the guy, probably late 50s or 60 absolutely crushed the route in a diaper.
Maybe diapers are more comfortable!
‘..the red-headed stepchild’… Dude. U been watchin big wave oohtubes?
Great episode! Thanks for bringing attention to the access issues in Ontario! I just had a month off work and wanted to go to Canada to climb; I went to Ontario for a week, but then because of the access issues (Devils Glen & Rockwood), I left and went to Squamish for the rest of my trip. I did write a letter (via climbinparks.ca). I grew up & started climbing in Ontario, then moved to Squamish 21 years ago where I stayed for 16 years. I’ve never understood the hatred of climbing by officials in Ontario?! The rest of the country embraces climbing and encourages it. Only Ontario has this strange constant battle with the officials (who are anti-climbing douche bags). It makes no sense. I hope more of your listeners will write letters too!