Captains and founding members of Logan University’s Climbing Club, trimester 6 doctor of chiropractic students Luke Vanover and Nick Reese, recently participated in one of the biggest climbing competitions in the Midwest. At the Climb So iLL Showdown on October 22, 2022, Luke earned 12th place and Nick earned 13th place out of the 32 people who participated in their division.
“It was a very unique competition. Each climber had three hours to complete five of their toughest routes, and there were some unique and challenging boulders neither Nick nor myself had experienced before,” said Luke. “Afterwards, I had the chance to work with Dr. Loeb of Clayton Chiropractic, helping massage and stretch the climbers.”
Despite being introduced to climbing only two years ago, Luke enjoys challenging, and slightly risky, climbing courses.
“When I first started, I was primarily climbing outdoors. I have migrated to more indoor courses, but I still enjoy occasional trips outside to do deep water free solo climbing or sport climbing,” said Luke.
Deep water free solo climbing is a form of rock climbing without a rope, relying solely on water to protect the climber and catch a fall.
Luke credits Robert Powell, MS, ATC, CSCS, EMT, director of sports and activities at Logan, and Dave Chancellor, founder and owner of So iLL climbing gym, to the success of the club.
“We only became an active club this past trimester,” explained Luke. “Rob and Dave played pivotal roles in the creation and logistics of the club.”
Logan University’s Climbing Club meets twice a week at the Climb So iLL gym, located in St. Charles. Sign-ups and open houses occur at the beginning of each trimester. Students interested in joining the club can contact Luke at luke.vanover@logan.edu, Nick at nick.reese@logan.edu, or attend one of the open houses. Follow the adventures of the club on Instagram at Instagram.com/loganclimbing.