Meet Ashley Fisher | Competitive Rock Climber & College Student

We had the good fortune of connecting with Ashley Fisher and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Ashley, is there something that you feel is most responsible for your success?
As a competitive athlete and college student, maintaining resilience in the face of adversity is the most important factor behind my success. Rock climbing is a sport that provides challenges, lessons, failures, and success. Either through competitions or projecting outdoor climbs, there have been numerous times when I have failed in rock climbing. But in order to have another chance at succeeding, you must start again. Starting again is often more difficult than starting up—it requires the complete acceptance that a goal was nearly reached. Through rock climbing, I have learned invaluable lessons about the nature of hard work, perseverance, and success.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
Rock climbing has been an anchor in my life for as long as I can remember. My parents introduced me to the sport at the young age of four, and I am lucky to say I have been in love ever since. As a six-foot-tall female rock climber, I stand out. There are times when my height is advantageous for my climbing, but there are also times when my height hinders my ability to perform. Over the years, I have learned to focus on the things I can control— staying consistent with training, dedicating more time to my weaknesses, and addressing the mental side of competition rock climbing. With this outlook, I have found the most success. Today I compete in both the Elite and Collegiate circuits while also dedicating time towards working on challenging outdoor climbs. I am proud to be part of the rock climbing community. I may not be the size of an average rock climber, but that will never stop me from chasing my dreams.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
I would, of course, have to take my friend rock climbing outside! We would start at BoxCar Coffee Roasters on Pearl Street. Then, taking our coffee to go, we would stroll down Pearl Street before heading up Boulder Canyon to hop on some real rock. After enjoying sunny Colorado, we would wrap up the day with tacos and live music at Los Chingones. Planning in Colorado is challenging; everyone says the weather changes every ten minutes. But during the rest of the week, I would make sure to take my friend up to Estes Park to see the Rocky Mountains, as well as hiking in Chautauqua Park, and if time allows, we will paddle board in the blue waters of Horsetooth Reservoir. In addition to exploring the outdoor beauty Colorado has to offer, the trip wouldn’t be complete without tasting the various Colorado cuisine. We would stop by Wonder Press, the Denver Central Market, Japango Sushi, and the Boulder Farmer’s Market.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I would love to dedicate this shoutout to Meghan McDonald. As my climbing coach, mentor, and friend, Meghan has never failed to show up. As an athlete herself, Meghan has a unique ability to understand the competitive side of sports and the relationship the mind and body have on performance. You will always receive support and encouragement from Meghan, but what stands out is her ability to push you out of your comfort zone mentally and physically. Whatever it may be, Meghan truly wants the best for you.

Instagram: @ashleyclimbs

Image Credits
Daniel Gajda, Caroline Colvin, Wayne Takashiba