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Climber Story: Justin Anderson
To start, tell us a little bit about yourself
Hi, I'm Justin Anderson! I was raised in Simi Valley then moved out to Camp Lejuene, NC where I was stationed when I joined the Marine Corps. Now, I'm 30 years old and located in Northridge, CA...it's been a crazy life and journey so far!
I currently work as a K9 Handler and Dog Trainer which is geared towards gaining some much needed dog handling and training experience. Learning how a dog talks to you through their body language and just being able to connect with them on a deep level is very fulfilling. The end goal for me is to be the best LAPD K9 Handler/Homicide Detective that I can possibly be.
How did you start climbing?
I started climbing back in 2018 when one of my friends and past coworkers brought me to Boulderdash climbing gym in Westlake Village. It was my first time climbing and I immediately fell in love with the sport.
Climbing has helped me out of some rough parts of my life, provided me with some of my closest friendships, and made some of the best memories. It truly has been an incredible journey so far since that first day in the climbing gym. I can't show enough appreciation to my friend for taking to the climbing gym for the first time!
What impact has climbing had on your life?
Climbing has helped me find focus, relaxation, and just an overall sense of community and accomplishment. It has also allowed me to spend some quality time with friends in some of the most beautiful places on earth.
Each route I get on challenges me both physically and mentally, in terms of the process, the puzzle that is the route, and how can I get past the fear of either falling or making a mistake. It's just me and the wall — all of the other problems or stresses of my daily life go away while I am on the wall. I love being able to regularly climb.
What are some other things you do that you find most fulfilling?
Woodworking, surfing, hiking, biking, playing pool, reading, and just spending as much time in the outdoors as possible. These are my real happy places in life.
If you could tell the world one thing, what would it be?
If you have dreams or passions, do what you can to make them happen.
Favorite thing about Dynamite Starfish?
By far it's the sense of community Dynamite Starfish creates. The inspiration that the community as a whole gives me daily, and just the incredible stories that other climbers have to share. I am honored to be a part of that in someway.
Is there something you're working on that you'd like to tell our community about? We love a good story.
I am currently working on getting my Jurisdoctorate while I'm working and interning. It's a busy life that I love and I wouldn't have it any other way.
The goal behind this is to gain some in the court knowledge and experience, so I can be the best police officer I can be. I have to keep pushing forward with my goals and passions in life.
You can find Justin on Instagram at @justinla_usmcvet92.
Want to get to know more of the climbers in the amazing Dynamite Starfish community? Check out our archive of Climber Stories here.
We hope you have enjoyed these sneak peeks into climbers' lives. We're on a mission to share diverse stories about rock climbing. Let's push the boundaries of who we know as climbers. Let's use our energy and passion for the outdoors to love our environment and inspire one another.
Have someone you think we should feature? Send us a message and let us know!
Until next time!
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