Emi Bursett, an 11-year-old climber from Hood River, showcased her skills at the USA Climbing Youth National Championships, held at the National Training Center in Salt Lake City from July 7-14. Competing for the first time on this national stage, Bursett began her journey in the bouldering qualifier round on July 12, advancing to the semi-finals with a determination that belied her shorter stature.
Despite her height, Bursett impressed with her technique, particularly tackling challenging routes like the V8 dino, a move that tested her agility and strength. Although her onsite grade stands at V7, she aims to conquer the V8 project, a remarkable feat considering she has been climbing consistently for only two years. Bursett favors climbing flat, or slab, walls, relishing the precision required for crimps and the intricacies of pocket holds while expressing a distaste for slopers.
Outside of climbing, Bursett leads the life of a typical 11-year-old, balancing her passion for the sport with hobbies such as playing Roblox and engaging in multiple sports. She credits her older sister, Nyah Bursett, for introducing her to climbing during their time in Portland before the family moved to Hood River.
Reflecting on their differing motivations in climbing, Emi noted, “[My sister] climbs more for the people, while I focus on the climbing itself.” This dedication has placed her among the youngest competitors at Nationals, a distinction highlighted by her recent success at Divisionals, where she secured a spot by placing first in the bouldering qualifying round.
Under the guidance of Claire Gordon, a seasoned coach, and the support of Brimstone Boulders’ coaching team, Bursett has honed her skills over the past two months in preparation for Nationals. Nathan Frankel, manager and team coach at Brimstone, emphasized the importance of mental preparation in Bursett’s training regimen, acknowledging her growth both as an athlete and as a competitor.
Looking ahead, Bursett anticipates the challenge of meeting new competitors and tackling unfamiliar climbs with enthusiasm tempered by a hint of apprehension. As she continues to evolve in her sport, she remains grounded by the supportive community at Brimstone Boulders and looks forward to expanding her horizons in climbing.
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