Episode 575: Piper Kelly – 2024 Olympian, 3x Pan American Champion, Speed Climbing Insights (Beyond Running Episode 5)

In today’s episode, we’re diving into the world of speed climbing with Olympian Piper Kelly. Piper is a 2024 Paris Olympian, a three-time Pan American champion, and she’s from Indianapolis—my hometown, which I obviously had to geek out about. Piper shares what it’s like to train for and compete in speed climbing, including the unique challenges of a sport where you race up the same route every single time. Yes, you heard that right. In speed climbing, the athletes tackle the exact same course over and over, and it’s all about speed—these races last only six or seven seconds. Wild, right?

We also talk about Piper’s journey to the Olympics, her first Olympic experience, and how she’s gotten to where she is today. I learned a ton, and I think you will too. Since the interview, I’ve even been inspired to take my kids rock climbing. We’ve gone a few times before, but this time I took all of them, and they had a blast. One of the best parts of this series is that it’s reminding me to push my kids to try new and different sports—not just running, but exploring all kinds of movement and adventure.

I also think you’ll appreciate hearing what it’s like to be a professional rock climber, especially in terms of sponsorships and the unique aspects of that lifestyle. And if you had a chance to catch any of the speed climbing events during the Olympics this summer, you’ll know how exciting it is to watch. It’s one of those sports that grabs your attention fast, and Piper does an amazing job explaining why.

So, whether you’re already a fan of climbing or just curious about the sport, I think you’ll love this conversation. Don’t forget to follow Piper’s journey as she gears up for Paris 2024!

What we talked about:

4:15- Her entry into the sport of speed climbing

6:10- The different disciplines of climbing

8:55- Why she chose the speed climbing discipline

12:05- Different styles of climbing

16:05- Running in high school

18:15- Making the Olympic team

24:15- Her family of elite athletes and how her parents instilled a passion for movement

35:20- Dealing with injuries in the sport

39:40- Growth in the sport

44:35- The financial aspect of the sport

48:50- Her role as a coach

50:20- End of podcast questions

Show notes:

@Piper.Climbs on Instagram

Book recommendations:

Dune Series

Fast GIrls

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