by Gina Pujols

Audrey Gawrych and her mom have more than a smile in common. Together they are pushing rock climbing to new heights

Audrey rock climbing in Spain. At age 15, Audrey Gawrych is one of the best young climbers in the world. But her climbing prowess didn’t come by chance. She is a descendent from the lovers of the adrenaline rush. That rush comes from her mother, Debbie, who has been climbing for the past 12 years. When she’s not on the rock, she also runs, plays tennis, swims, bikes and even practices Pilates. “Children learn more by example than by us alone,” said Debbie. “If parents are not setting an example, there is no integrity.”

Audrey’s climbing success has roots in her mom’s drive. Debbie is an accomplished writer, who recently published a book entitled The Seven Aspects of Sisterhood, Empowering Women Through Self Discovery. She is also is the president of USA Climbing and is pushing to make climbing part of the Olympic Games. Debbie’s commitment to the sport only helps her relate to Audrey’s dedication. “I understand the language, and I have more respect for what she’s doing because I know how hard it is,” she said.

“Don’t live through the child, be a part of the world they’re in.”

Climbing is a family affair for the Gawrych family, and Audrey likes it that way. “It’s nice to have a parent that totally understands what it’s like to be in the competition aspect of the sport,” said Audrey. “Kids really enjoy it more.”

She plans to attend college in Colorado and is interested in journalism or veterinary school. She also wants to continue climbing professionally. Debbie is happy with whatever path her daughter chooses. She believes that parents who are not somehow involved in their children’s lives often hinder motivation. However, letting them make their own choices is something she fervently exercises in her parenting. “Don’t live through the child,” as some parents may when coaching their children. “Be a part of the world they are in,” Debbie said.

Not surprisingly, the Gawrych ladies are big supporters of Title IX, the national law mandating equal treatment for girls in sports. They are happy with the progress of equal treatment between girls and boys in sports, but they do hope to see more changes in the future. “I see guys and girls who play on co-ed teams in my school, and I think that the girls sometimes are not as respected as the guys,” said Audrey. “As far as climbing goes, women rule at this sport.”

Yet Debbie is concerned about minority involvement at the high school Audrey attends.“I went to Cypress Bay High School, and about 70 percent of the girls are Hispanic,” said Debbie. But she believes they are not really encouraged to get as active as other girls.

Debbie wall climbing. “No other woman my age climbed,” which surprised her. She believes that Title IX advocates should target minority cultures more and would like to see sports become more available for minorities and their communities.

Audrey and Debbie both feel that getting active plays an important part in girls living happy, healthy lives. “I like the competition atmosphere,” said Audrey. “It fills with me with excitement, adrenaline and a sense of accomplishment.” Like her mother, Audrey practices other sports. She also snowboards and surfs for fun. “Kids spend too much time playing video games,” said Audrey. “I say go out and do anything!”

Audrey and Debbie certainly live by their words and are “going out and doing anything” together, building their relationship as surely as they are building their muscles.

Reprint courtesy of the Women’s Sports Foundation,www.WomensSportsFoundation.org

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