If you’re closely following the Olympics in Paris next week, you’re likely to see Natalia Grossman advancing her way up a climbing wall. Get used to that trajectory in her life.
Grossman is part of Team USA in the combined “lead climbing” and “bouldering” disciplines (as opposed to “speed climbing”). This summer’s Olympic Games mark the first time that Olympic competition will be not combine all three disciplines. (Lead climbing and bouldering likely will be split in 2028.)
Grossman grew up in Santa Cruz, Calif., within walking distance of a climbing gym. When she was about 4-years old, she and her family were on a walk in the neighborhood. They noticed a tall building and went inside. Natalia was overwhelmed by the climbing walls that filled the building and she told her parents that she wanted to join the club.
When they found out she had to be at least 6-years old to participate, they told her if she remembered that wish when she turned 6, they would sign her up.
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