Chicks is stoked to kick off 2019 in Ouray, Colorado with our signature women’s ice climbing clinics.
Twenty years ago our founder, Kim Reynolds, identified a huge difference in the numbers of women climbers vs men and their roles in climbing. Particularly in ice climbing, she noted, “ As I watched the sport of climbing grow, I saw few women taking the lead in this seemingly intimidating activity. I saw an opportunity for women to learn from other women and gain the confidence needed to become proficient, self-reliant climbers and climbing partners”.
Alpinist Kitty Calhoun climbing “Abridgement” WI4 in the Ouray Ice Park, Ouray Colorado.
The most important ingredient of the sauce that makes Chicks sizzle is the level of professionalism o the guides – all are AMGA certified or have at least 37 years of guiding experience. But there are other ingredients. We are proud of being a vehicle for building partnerships. We have a tradition of giving back to the community with a yearly fundraiser and have raised over $200,000 as part of that program. Additionally, we are sponsored by several amazing partner companies in the outdoor industry – all of which share in the giveback commitment of Chicks.
To celebrate our heritage, Chicks will host a 20thAnniversary Celebration on January 25, 2019 at the Ouray Community Center during the 2019 Ouray Ice Festival. The evening will begin with a social/performance by Bibi McGill, best known as the lead guitarist and musical director of Beyonce’s backing band, the Suga Mamas.
This will be followed by a showing of 20/20, a new film chronicling the remarkable mountaineering achievements of women from the pioneering climbers of the 1800’s to modern day mavens, sending lines and laying down first ski descents. Afterwards, Alison Osius, executive editor of Rock & Ice, and a pioneering female climbing journalist, will moderate a panel of the women starring in 20/20, which anchors the celebration.
For more details, go to Chicks 20thAnniversary Celebration. Lastly, Chicks having fun together makes our hearts sing! Ouray will be alive with the tribe getting back together. And to add more spice to the sauce, we will host a Chicks Alumni Happy Hour at my house in Ouray on January 24, 2019 from 5pm–6pm. Please RSVP kittycalhoun007@gmail.com.
The Women's Outdoor News, aka The WON, features news, reviews and stories about women who are shooting, hunting, fishing and actively engaging in outdoor adventure. This publication is for women, by women. View all posts by The WON
