Climber Story: Steve Chadwick

To start, tell us a little bit about yourself

Hey, I'm Steve and I'm 45. I am a professional route setter and live in a big van called Myrtle. In August 2021, I had a stroke that completely shut down the left side of my body.

How did you start climbing?

I started climbing at a state run boarding school. I wouldn't go to my academic lessons, but a teacher forced me to go climbing when I was six years old. It was an instant feeling of love being just me and the rock. I was hooked! 

Here I am 39 years later working for a climbing wall company. I feel so grateful that I am lucky enough to call my passion my job.

What impact has climbing had on your life?

Massive. 

If it hadn't been for that one teacher, I'm sure I would either be in prison or on drugs...maybe both or worse!

What are some other things you do that you find most fulfilling?

I love all things climbing! If I’m not teaching others to climb in an instructor role, you can probably find me safety servicing or inspecting climbing walls.

When I’m not doing those, I’m route setting and enjoy climbing my own projects in my spare time.

If you could tell the world one thing, what would it be?

Be nice to people and give climbing a go!

Favorite thing about Dynamite Starfish?

There is so much cool stuff! I really like the variety of colors and designs. 

Is there something you're working on that you'd like to tell our community about? We love a good story.

After having my stroke, I vowed I would not only climb again, but I was going to climb harder than I had ever climbed before and set my sights on 9A (5.14D). Dreamcatcher is the route of choice and the plan is set for summer 2024.

You can find Steve on Instagram at @steve_the_climber.

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!