Ian grew up in The Lake District of England an area with Lakes, Mountains (3000ft) and crags. His first experience of climbing was at age 6 and despite losing a boot halfway up the climb the foundation was laid. His first lead climb was at 15 (Little Chamonix) in the UK where the ethic for climbing are 100% traditional leader placed protection.
University took Ian to Birmingham England where he studied sport and exercise sciences. This led him to working at the University outdoor education centre teaching Rock Climbing as a trainee instructor in 2000/01 and then as head climbing guide in 2006-8. He has also worked with people with disabilities in the outdoors and moved to New Zealand to start a non-profit working with people with disabilities in the outdoors, this was a great experience for him and also introduced him to his wife who would eventually bring him out to Colorado.
Ian is an IFMGA Licensed Mountain Guide and an AIARE 1 Course Leader. He is also a Wilderness First Responder and Outdoor Emergency Care Technician. When the weather turns cold Ian can be found Ski Patrolling at Eldora Mountain Resort.
“My favourite place to climb in Colorado is Eldorado Canyon, I like the bold technical style of climbing that reminds me of home. It is just such a scenic beautiful place with so many great long routes. My favourite crag in the world is Gogarth in North Wales, sea cliff climbing with the seals playing in the water as you belay your partner on the first pitches but watch out for the tides. Some of my best experiences have been climbing in the European Alps. Climbing the North Face of the Courtes in Chamonix a 1000m+ ice route or maybe the West ridge of Salbitzchen a 36 pitch climb along a ridge ascending and descending 5 rock towers as you go.
My perfect day would be to rise early and go alpine climb, rock climb or ski in the morning with my wife. I would then spend the afternoon in a swimming pool playing with my 2 girls and then finish the day with a glass of red wine and a Bond film.
I love being in the outdoors and love sharing it with other people whilst teaching them to be safe efficient climbers.”
