Chelsea Rude

I loved the We Send climbing festival last year and was so excited for it this year. Unfortunately the weather was not in our favor but we made the best of it and I'm grateful for that. I enjoyed the movies, dance party, climbing, and swag. I was surprised at the number of men that were there and were upfront, taking up space, at times the loudest voice in the space. This was advertised as a safe space for women and gender queer people and the presence of men made this less so. My request is that this is not advertised as a women/nonbinary event or don't bring men into this space because it does change the experience. Also, the clinic was not structured or very informative, and I felt that the overall experience was more expensive than it was worth.

By Lindsey A. on May 09, 2024

Despite some terrible weather, this was such a wonderful community event. It truly re-filled my cup and gave me such joy!

By Allison W. on May 04, 2024

Rain, wind or shine the We Send festivals have been an absolute blast! The environment is inclusive and engaging and the participants show up with open minds and open hearts. The festival attracts awesome people who are ready to be friendly, silly and supportive of each other. The fashion show is legendary and DJ Ellie Ellis gets everyone letting loose with her upbeat dance music. Would recommend.

By Becca D. on May 04, 2024

Great initiative! Great energy and spirit, despite the weather. I loved the climbing clinic. That made the weekend a success for me. I would have loved some talks as well.

By Heleen D. on May 01, 2024

Even with the weather, we had the best time with the most amazing community.

By Giselle T. on April 30, 2024

I had such an amazing weekend! Chelsea did a phenomenal job at organizing and adapting with the less than ideal weather. I felt so valued, safe, and free! Already looking forward to next year!

By Lia W. on April 29, 2024

Chelsea took a drizzly weekend and turned it into a beautiful gathering of community!

By Valerie H. on April 29, 2024

By Amy R. on April 29, 2024

This is the first climbing event I've ever attended, and I went in with no expectations (especially since it looked like we were going to get rained out all weekend) but I can honestly say I had a wonderful time! The staff and volunteers were all super nice, the packing list and FAQs were well thought out, and they did a great job with the setup and facilities available. They stayed flexible with the weather and made sure everyone had a space to be safe, warm, and having fun. The clinic I signed up for was awesome and made for a super-memorable experience. I met so many awesome people and can't wait to climb with them in the future! I really appreciate the effort that went in to creating this space for women and gender-queer/non-conforming climbers and making the event happen, I hope to see it again next year!

By Kate H. on April 28, 2024

By Shannon F. on April 28, 2024

Even though the festival this year had tough conditions (sleet, hail, rain, wind), Chelsea and her team were quick to adapt and kept the psych high. I loved the planned events, and you could see the love and sense of community from all the attendees. Fingers crossed the weather will be better next year cause this festival is amazing!

By Anunta V. on April 28, 2024