Tim Kang discovered climbing at 13 years old at a climbing gym in California’s Bay Area and immediately committed his life to the exploration of movement and performance. He's an accomplished climber—indoors and outside. While he's always been interested in climbing hard test pieces, Tim got sucked into the world of highball bouldering on some of his earliest trips to Bishop, California. Tim is also passionate about education in climbing. Over the last couple of years, he's started a business to create content that can help others on their path to mastery. Now residing in Las Vegas, Nevada, Tim has stepped up to represent the climbing community alongside Access Fund in Washington, D.C.

Five Questions for Tim Kang:

Image courtesy of Tim Kang.

What surprised, challenged, or excited you most about getting into the advocacy world?
The surprise and challenge were the same thing—it was surprising how challenging it was at first! Understanding why problems occur in the first place is a huge crux. But it was exciting to learn how much we could do. These issues can’t be “out of sight, out of mind”—especially for professional climbers. It’s exciting how tangible it feels to address climbing access issues by working with people who don’t have a connection to climbing or these places.

What inspired you to travel to Washington, D.C., as a climbing advocate?
Just learning about this opportunity was enough inspiration to join. It didn't matter what my background was—in fact, it’s indoor climbing! Because I didn't start climbing outside immediately, these outdoor places are even more special to me. Each of them is unique. The first time I realized what a big impact climbing policy has on our community was during a trip to Hueco Tanks. It was a huge shock. But you can either make a fuss, or you can address the root issues. I’m especially thankful to Black Diamond for putting things like this trip in front of me and supporting important endeavors in the climbing world.

What’s your favorite cause in climbing advocacy right now?
Climbers have more of an interaction with the world, the climate, and nature. Businesses and politics can feel disconnected from nature, but climbing can help heal that. It’s obvious that climbing is booming and more people are aware of climbing, but lots of climbing is happening indoors. Then people learn about climbing outdoors, so education is key. But we’re approaching it in new ways. Folks like me are making YouTube vlogs to fill that gap. It’s up to those of us who’ve been climbing for a long time to share messages of sustainability and to be an example for folks who aren’t climbing as often.

Why is it important for professional climbers to be climbing advocates?
We’re the same as the rest of the climbing community; we just share it a lot more. We come in all shapes, forms, and levels. We should also have the most responsibility and be held to the highest standards. That includes education and spreading awareness for issues you learn along the way. I’m excited to be a student here and learn as much as I can. I want to be more educated so I can share more about issues that are relevant and matter.

Anything else you want to add?
The thing I’m most excited about right now is sharing what climbing means to me—sharing our authentic connection to climbing. It’s cool! Even for non-climbing observers, people can understand going outside. Climbing makes me happier and more inspired. I want to get better at climbing, but for what purpose? I feel a huge responsibility to speak about responsible climbing practices based on what I;ve learned. With this trip to Washington, D.C., I hope to find ways to share the experience with others. Anyone can help.