Chasing the Crux: A Journey Through Holds and Heights
My Climbing Journey in Oklahoma City: A Story of Growth and Friendship
When I moved to Oklahoma City, climbing wasn’t the first thing on my mind. I had always been curious about the sport, but it felt distant, reserved for adventurers with calloused hands and fearless attitudes. That all changed one Wednesday evening when a group of friends invited me to the local climbing gym.
From the moment I walked into the gym, I was captivated. The colorful holds on the towering walls, the rhythmic sound of climbers chalking up, and the encouragement shared among strangers—there was a magnetic energy. My friends helped me into a harness, tightening the straps. Nervous but excited, I tied in and took my first hesitant steps up the wall.
At first, it was awkward. My arms burned, my hands slipped, and the fear of falling made me grip the holds too tightly. But each attempt was met with cheers and advice—what I now know in climbing terms as beta—from my friends. “Trust your feet!” they’d call out. “It’s all about technique!” Slowly, I began to improve, discovering the joy in problem-solving my way up the routes.
As weeks turned into months, climbing became a part of my life. The gym was more than a training ground—it was a community. After work, I’d meet my friends there, exchanging stories about our days while tackling new problems together. The camaraderie extended beyond the gym walls, spilling into weekend trips to explore the nearby climbing spots.
The Wichita Mountains were my first taste of outdoor climbing. The rugged granite felt different under my hands—coarser and more raw. My first lead climb was both thrilling and terrifying, with every move requiring a mix of strategy and trust. The summit offered views that took my breath away, the Oklahoma plains stretching endlessly beneath a golden sunset. Sitting at the top, surrounded by my friends, I felt a profound sense of accomplishment and connection.
Not long after, the Ozarks in Arkansas became our next adventure. I was drawn to the towering sandstone cliffs and the lush forests below. I learned to push my limits there, tackling harder grades and embracing the mental game of climbing. One route in particular tested my patience—a tricky overhang that demanded precise movement and unshakable confidence. It took three attempts, but when I finally clipped the anchors, my shouts of triumph echoed across the valley.
Beyond the climbing itself, these experiences taught me about resilience, trust, and the beauty of shared challenges. Whether it was laughing over campfire meals, encouraging one another through crux moves, or simply enjoying the stillness of nature, each moment deepened my love for the sport and the people around me.
Looking back, I realize that those years in Oklahoma City were transformative. What started as a casual invitation to the gym grew into a passion that shaped my identity. Climbing gave me not just strength and skill but also lifelong friendships and countless memories. It was a journey of growth—one handhold, one route, one summit at a time.
Special thanks to my friends Ang, Cory, Sky, Jordan, Yen-Oanh, Jared and Teddy —your support, laughter, and encouragement made it all unforgettable.
- Caleb M. Rosenthal