Kaitlyn launched right into climbing and skiing after moving to Oregon in 2017. She took the Mazama Advanced Rock course earlier this year and quickly jumped into volunteering for the organization. She is now serving on the AR committee, helping folks hone their climbing skills and encouraging others interested in learning to lead trad climbs to apply for AR 2024.
Name: Kaitlyn Beecroft Sweeney
Pronouns: She/Her
Year Joined Mazamas: 2022
Present-day outdoor activities: Rock climbing, skiing, mountain biking, and building mountain bike trails in Tillamook.
What’s your earliest outdoor memory? My family used to go camping in West Texas when I was around 8 or 9. I remember riding bikes with my sister around a lake.
How did you first hear about the Mazamas, and what prompted you to engage with the organization? I first heard about the Mazamas from a co-worker, and later after I started climbing I wanted to take a course that covered high angle rescue. The Advanced Rock course really drew me in and I have enjoyed meeting and learning from many great people since becoming involved.
As more people seek to recreate outdoors, what advice would you offer them? I would encourage them to keep it as light as they want and have fun. At the end of the day it’s all about doing things you enjoy with people you enjoy spending time with. Sometimes that’s a big multi-day adventure and other times it’s a short day hike.
What activities/situations/people most inspire you? Pick one. My family and friends inspire me.
What is your favorite book/movie/TV show/social media account that you follow and why? I’ve been following competition climbing since the Olympics. It’s cool to see how much it has grown. Always impressed with the route setters and athletes.
What’s on your adventure bucket list? So many things! If I had to pick one, I’d love to go to Indian Creek.
Congratulations! good to see another Sweeney in the Mazamas