Build My Own Feed9th annual New River Rendezvous enjoys record setting attendance and fundraising
Last month a crew of BD employees and athletes, including sales reps Matt Ginley and Russ Clune, attended the 9th annual New River Rendezvous in Fayetteville, West Virginia. The NRR is one of the biggest and best events in climbing—thanks to the tireless and passionate efforts of the event organizers (Maura and Gene Kisler and Kenny Parker, et al), as well as an army of dedicated volunteers. What really makes the NRR special is the amazing community of climbers that turn up—rain or shine—for four days and nights of fun, mayhem and food. Below is Ginley’s report from the event, and a collection of photos (courtesy of Devaki Murch).
The New River Rendezvous once again proved itself as THE climbing event of climbing events in the eastern half of the good ol' U-S-of-A (if not the entire country). 2011 marked its 9th year running, and also proved to be the most successful one yet. Record attendance combined with good weather was just the right mix for raising the most funds in the history of the event. And for YOU CLIMBERS out there, this is a GREAT THING!!!
Over 750 climbers from all around the world swarmed into small Fayetteville, WV (hailed as one of the “Coolest small towns in America”… seriously, just look at the sign in front of Tudors Biscuit World!!) to partake in this awesome event. Attendees were provided with ample opportunity for a fun time. During the day you had the option of signing up for a clinic with one of dozens of professional climbers teaching a variety of different aspects of climbing, entering a competition (sport, trad, bouldering, or top-roping), or simply going out and enjoying the day of climbing with friends. During the evenings, Crashpad Sumo wrestling, a dyno contest, slack lining, live DJs, and Black Diamond Equipment’s own Desert-a-Palooza were just a few of the good times to be had. Another highlight this year was the AWESOME “Over The Top”-esque arm wrestling competition. Winners of this smack-talking, bone-crushing, arm-breaking battle walked away with HUNDREDS of dollars worth of new swag courtesy of Patagonia. Bottom line: you’d have to try really hard to NOT have a good time at this event!! 
Every dollar raised during the event goes directly to the New River Alliance of Climbers (NRAC for short). NRAC is a non-profit organization whose mission is preserving and securing access to climbing in the New River Gorge and surrounding areas for years to come. And that’s not all—the NRAC crew is completely instrumental in making the New the world-class destination it is today. From anchor replacement, to trail building and everything in-between these guys literally make it happen. Huge kudos to the entire crew that continues to make the New River Rendezvous what it is today: Waterstone Outdoors, NRAC, every single volunteer, and all of the other sponsors… BRAVO!!
The Rendezvous’ 10th anniversary is coming up next… who knows what’s gonna happen!! Start planning for it NOW!
United States / English 
