Vertical Relief Climbing Gym

Vertical Relief Climbing Center
205 S. San Francisco St.
Flagstaff, AZ 86001
(928) 556-9909

:: Staff Biographies ::


	John Doskicz: John began climbing in the northeast US in 1990, lured to the vertical through hiking on the A.T. Climbing and teaching climbing quickly became a passion. He finished the AMGA Rock Guides Course in 1994 and after a couple of road trips to the southwest settled in Flagstaff in 1995. John then graduated from Northern Arizona University in 1999 with a degree in Science Education. His perfect route would have a one and a half hour approach with 10 pitches of 5.9 and 5.10 climbing and a walk off the back. When not working, climbing or trail running he's spending time with his family.

	Samantha Dauderman: Sam started her Vertical Relief career in 2001 working the front desk, since that time she has done everything from running kids' groups to course setting. Sam is now the Facilities Manager and a guide. Sam is currently working towards her Top Rope Site Manager certification through the American Mountain Guides Association. She enjoys many types of climbing and is just a little freaky about it. Come check out her women’s climbing clinics every Friday night.


	Chris Tatum: Chris started his climbing addiction in Michigan eight years ago. After graduating from Northern Michigan University with a degree in Outdoor Recreation Leadership and Management in 2003, he decided the nine month winters were too much for him and moved to Flagstaff. Chris has been part of the VR team since March 2004 where he works as the Education Director and Head Guide. He is currently working towards his Rock Instructor certification through the American Mountain Guides Association. If he is not working, you can probably find him enjoying the long trad routes that Northern Arizona has to offer.

	Jason Henrie: Jason started his Vertical Relief career in 1998 and has been climbing for 14 years. He spends most of his time bouldering and sport climbing but started his climbing career in the mountains climbing peaks in Washington and British Columbia near his home town Bellingham, Washington. Jason is currently the Marketing and Membership Director. If you don’t see him at the gym he’s out combing the desert for new boulders to climb. Jason’s passion for climbing is an extension of his love of outdoors and exploration of new places.

	Zak Farmer: Zak has been climbing for eight years, specializing in bouldering and competition climbing and has been competing in professional climbing competitions for over 4 years. At Vertical Relief, Zak is the head route setter and is in charge of all your route needs. Got an issue with the routes? Pick him out of the crowd and let him know what's on your mind.

	Rachael Blievernicht: Rachael has been climbing for just under three years, and competing in regional comps for two years. She first began working at Vertical Relief in the summer of 2004. Rachael’s primary role as a VR staff member is route setting and assisting with coaching the kids climbing teams. She is also running holiday/summer camps.