Beth Rodden & Randy Puro: Climbing, Life & Love - [Stories Inside]
Can the summit of passion be reached twice? For Beth Rodden, the celebrated rock climber, the answer appears to be a resounding yes, her life a testament to resilience, reinvention, and the enduring power of love found amidst the vertical world.
This story, co-written by Beth Rodden and Outside contributing editor Elizabeth Weil, delves into the intricacies of Rodden's life, tracing her journey through the demanding landscape of climbing, motherhood, and adventure. The narrative, originating from Outside Magazine in May 2017, offers a glimpse into the intimate spaces of her world, from the rugged cliffs of Yosemite to the tender moments of family life. The Berkeley crew, including Randy Puro, Courtney Hemphill, Paul and Lynn Barraza, and others (as detailed in Rodden's "Weekend Warriors" blog), formed a vibrant tapestry of support and camaraderie. Rodden quickly forged deep friendships within this community, particularly with Randy and Courtney. The magnetic pull between Rodden and Randy was undeniable, culminating in a passionate romance that blossomed after just a few months, as her story and writings suggest.
The allure of the climb often stems from the individual narrative it represents. For every climber, certain routes capture the imagination, drawing them in through history, aesthetics, the captivating dance of movement, and the inherent mystery of the unknown. As Rodden herself once stated, these factors contribute to the unique draw of a particular climb. She speaks on the deep love of climbing and describes the sport as a great teacher of life, and what the sport has thought her.
| Full Name: | Beth Rodden Puro |
| Date of Birth: | April 5, 1980 |
| Age: | 45 (as of 2024) |
| Birthplace: | San Francisco, California, USA |
| Zodiac Sign: | Aries |
| Marital Status: | Married to Randy Puro (2012) |
| Children: | Theo (born July 2014) |
| Climbing Style: | Trad, Sport, Bouldering |
| Sport Climbing Grade: | Up to 8b+ |
| Trad Climbing Grade: | Up to E11 |
| Notable Achievements: | First free ascents of El Capitan routes, numerous first ascents of challenging boulder problems in Yosemite, First ascent of Meltdown (5.14+) |
| Residence: | Yosemite National Park & Berkeley, California |
| Husband: | Randy Puro |
| Occupation: | Professional Rock Climber, Writer, Advocate |
| Website: | bethrodden.com |
Rodden and her husband, Randy Puro, a fellow climber and software engineer, make their home in both Yosemite National Park and Berkeley, California. Their travels often take them to areas with challenging boulders, like those found in Norway, where they sought out routes with deep roofs, sometimes stretching up to 50 feet in length. They have deep love for climbing, and have spent many nights under the stars, near the water and hanging out with the locals.
Rodden's approach to climbing is marked by a deep appreciation for the problem-solving aspect of the sport. As she herself has said, "I really like the problem-solving part." This perspective informs her approach to first ascents, pushing her to seek out new challenges and explore the intricacies of each route. The "fun and unique" aspect of climbing, according to Rodden, goes beyond the purely physical. It challenges the mind, the body, and encourages her to look deeper in the sport.
The climbing community is more than just a sport. it's a network of friendships, and support. Rodden's relationships with fellow climbers like Tommy Caldwell, Dave Graham, Chris Sharma, Daniel Woods, Paul Robinson, Dani Andrada, Patxi Usobiaga, Daila Ojeda, Ty Landman, Jason Kehl, Matt Bosley, and Michael Fuselier, exemplify the tight-knit nature of this world.
Rodden's impact on climbing extends beyond her athletic achievements. She has become a prolific athlete in climbing history, with multiple free ascents of El Capitan and first ascents of cutting-edge routes. She is also devoted herself to writing and advocacy in the sport in recent years. Her writing, as seen in "A Light Through the Cracks," explores the complexities of her life and career, and offers a window into the heart of a climber.
The couple's journey was also featured in a New York Times online article titled "No Need for a Mountain," which examines the growing popularity of bouldering. The article follows Rodden and Puro on a bouldering expedition in Norway, offering readers a comprehensive look at their climbing lifestyle. The article features video and a slideshow, offering a multi-faceted perspective on their climbing adventures.
Rodden's life has been marked by significant moments of triumph and heartbreak. Her first ascent of Meltdown (5.14+), considered one of the most challenging single-crack pitches in Yosemite, remains unrepeated more than a decade later. The climb was captured in a definitive film that captured headlines and inspired imaginations across the globe. Her ascents, along with those of fellow climbers like Tommy Caldwell and Kevin Jorgeson on the Dawn Wall of El Capitan, underscore the dedication and skill required in this sport.
In the realm of personal relationships, Rodden's life has also been a journey of growth and transformation. Her divorce from Tommy Caldwell in 2009 marked a period of significant change, followed by her marriage to Randy Puro in 2012. The arrival of their son, Theo, in 2014, marked a new chapter in her life, one filled with the joys and responsibilities of motherhood.
Randy Puro, a software engineer by trade, is also an avid climber. He works as the CTO of a startup called FertilityIQ, which provides assistance with fertility and family planning. His climbing pursuits are a significant part of his life, reflecting a passion for adventure and a shared bond with his wife. His presence in Rodden's life underscores the importance of companionship and understanding in navigating the challenges of a life dedicated to climbing.
The couple's relationship embodies a shared devotion, even in the face of adversity. Rodden's openness about her journey of self-discovery and the evolving nature of love is inspiring. In 2008, meeting Randy Puro brought a sense of vitality and passion that had been absent for a while. Their partnership provides evidence of finding a love that grows and endures over time, a love built on respect, shared goals, and the support of each other's passions.
On May 2, 2020, a photograph featuring Rodden and Randy Puro was published, offering a glimpse into their life together. Despite the challenges, their relationship is a testament to the enduring power of love and the resilience of the human spirit. Her story is a source of motivation and hope for anyone searching for a path through the world. Beth Rodden's life is an illustration of the human capacity to evolve, find love, and climb to new heights, both literally and figuratively.
