Chris Braund - Southern Piedmont Rep | Carolina Climbers Coalition

My first exposure to climbing came on a spring trip to Yosemite in 1992. A buddy and I scrambled up Half Dome, Batman-style in running shoes, using the cables that were down for the winter. Once I moved to the Carolinas, I began an apprenticeship and 30-year love affair with climbing throughout the Southeast. For me, climbing is deeply personal but also social. It’s a way that I can connect with the earth’s geology, with the history of climbing adventurers before me, with my climbing peers and to future climbers that will have their own meaningful experiences in the mountains. For several years, I lived in Lake Lure and I was blessed to be able to work alongside organizations like the CCC focused on recreational access, preservation and the development of new areas for hiking, mountain biking and climbing. I was part of a team that established the first bouldering comp at Rumbling Bald. Through the CCC, I hope to be able to protect and expand climbing opportunities throughout the state and to help build communities and systems that will sustain these areas for generations.

I have zero first ascents and have rarely climbed harder than 5.8. Lately, I’ve been drawn to alpine climbs and ski descents out west. My goal is to grow old climbing moderates in the Amphitheater.

I live in Charlotte with my wife Karen and our dogs. Together we are working our way through the South Beyond 6,000’ challenge.