Being surrounded by beautiful, badass, courageous women and genderfluid climbers was so affirming and special. It was an oasis, and I found it hard to return to the "real world".

This sport can do a lot for a person, and Flash Foxy recognizes that value. Sometimes the key to greater change starts with what we can control.

Audio and photo slideshow about Brittney’s experience at the Flash Foxy Climbing Festival in Bishop.

It’s been almost three years since we’ve been able to gather with one another. It’s been almost three years and we have lost people, have had opportunities to say goodbye never knowing that it was the last time we’ll ever see each other. It’s been almost three years since we’ve been able to gather with folks and build new communities and beautiful relationships. I am so grateful that the first time that I’ve been able to gather at a climbing festival is in the beautiful location Payahuunadu also known as Bishop California.

I left Bishop excited to get back into the gym. Not just because I learned a new skill I wanted to practice or made new friends, but because I finally felt like I had a community. For the first time, I felt like I found people who cheered for our successes, encouraged our vulnerability, and guided us through challenges.

When I had first applied for the scholarship, I initially thought, “who am I to apply for this scholarship?” It seemed like a far fetching unobtainable goal. When I received the congratulatory email that I had received the scholarship, I felt so accomplished and so excited to share space with other folks who have had shared experiences similar to mine.

Driving to Flash Foxy in Bishop was a big deal. First time driving over an hour by myself. First time attending a climbing festival or event outdoors. The motivating factor was having gender queer people be actively invited to and celebrated. I wanted to meet other queer enbies and witness more diversity than I’ve ever seen at any climbing event.

Scholarships available for 2022 Flash Foxy Climbing Festival in Bishop, CA