I started climbing when I was eight years old on the legendary French cliffs in Verdon, Buoux. At the age of 15, I had sent my first 5.14a (Putain Putain) and had become a climbing Junior World Champion. I decided to take a break from climbing so I could devote myself completely to the pole vault as it was something that I was really excited about. I vaulted for 3 years and became champion of France only to realize that climbing was my means of expression and a lifestyle that suits me. I cannot live without climbing. Traveling, meeting new people, learning and challenging myself is the life I want. I have improved my climbing abilities (multiple 8c & a 8a block) and competition results (3rd in the European Championships - Imst). Ceus & Spain are the places where I feel the best climbing and want o be more often. I discovered Bishop in the U.S. and Smith Rock and they are a different world! Now I want to discover more climbing hot spots in the United States. I think I can still push myself, to express my passions at an even higher level and push my limits!
~Alizée Dufraisse
