05/28/2026
Proof that age is just a number, here’s to Karl who is still crushing it on his 80th birthday! We sat down with Karl to ask him a few questions about his climbing journey.
Q: How did you first get into climbing?
A: Well I started out backpacking. And then, once you start getting into the mountains, it seemed like a natural outgrowth from that, and from there I got involved with The Ohio State Mountaineers as well.
Q:How long have you been a member of the gym?
A:Well, since the old gym opened. (1994)
Q:What keeps you coming back?
A: I enjoy the mental aspect of it, and staying fit. Equal with that is the people, the friendships and the community.
Q: What is one piece of advice you’d give to younger folks or newer climbers?
A: Balance. Don’t put everything in one basket. You know the other day, my wife and I went down to hocking hills to see the wild orchids that are always blooming on my birthday, and we’ve been doing that for 25 years. And listen to your body. When you need rest take a rest, when you’re feeling good go hard.