Member Spotlight: Jan 2017
Dan Bunch
Edgeworks member since 2012
How did you start climbing?
Dan: I have been in the outdoors to recharge since childhood. I came to climbing from mountaineering. My daughter, Serenity, and I love to camp but don’t like to sit around so we needed a father-young daughter outdoor activity. Unlike crampons, they make climbing shoes in kid size so four years ago it became our “thing”.
Why do you climb at Edgeworks?
Dan: ….Umm, it rains a lot in Western Washington, so in the off-season we needed a place to practice our skills to take them outside. But for me the absolute best part is, being a single father I have always had a hard time finding good female role models for my daughter and Edgeworks is blessed with amazing women for my daughter to learn from . Staff and customers alike I am so glad to have a place for my daughter to learn and grow surrounded by quality people.
Where is your favorite place to climb outside?
Dan: Icicle Creek in Leavenworth by far; we try to spend at least a month every year there.
What do you do when you’re not climbing?
Dan: I am a “shop guy” so I build stuff. For instance, my latest project is repurposing scrap railroad track to make an anvil because I’m getting back into blacksmithing.
What are some interesting facts you’d like to share with the Edgeworks community?
Dan: I am retired military and worked offshore after that so my entire life has revolved around teamwork and excellence and I see that with the staff here. As a father and climber, I appreciate that more than words can describe.
Which do you prefer: top rope, lead, or bouldering?
Dan: Lead climbing is my favorite by far.
What is your go-to route grade?
Dan: I would call myself a 5.10-11 climber and a 5.9-10- lead.
