Extreme ports are just that: extreme. Despite the risks–sometimes because of them–we indulge our adrenaline-junkie selves in adventures that have an element of danger. We hope we’re well trained, equipped, and prepared. Usually we are. We’re also usually lucky.
That’s why it’s so humbling and sad when someone who’s more prepared, well trained, better equipped, and stronger that most of us will ever be, isn’t as lucky. Last weekend in a rumble on the south face of the Mont Blanc massif, a 23-year-old Belgian climber, Chloe Graftiaux, fell to her death after a loose rock dislodged during her descent. Supremely unlucky and tragic, indeed.
As an accomplished mountaineer, climber, and podium-finishing boulderer in the 2010 world championships, Chloe’s youth hadn’t prevented her from proving herself as an amazing talent, a dedicated climber, and a force to reckon with nature. To Chloe’s family: thank you for supporting the dreams and talents of your daughter and allowing her to inspire adventure in all of us. 
