Conrad Anker has been pushing the limits of mountaineering for the last 30 plus years. The Bozeman, Montana-based father of three is one a prolific explorer and mountaineer. Equally at home in Antarctica, the Himalaya or his home ice in Hyalite Canyon in southwestern Montana, Conrad continues a deep appreciation for wild places that was passed on from his father and grandfather who hailed from Big Oak Flat, California, just outside Yosemite National Park.

Throughout his career, Conrad has pioneered difficult new routes in the most remote places on earth and been a mentor to many, including Johnathan “Malik” Martin, a rock climber and Memphis native who has spent the last 5 years being dedicated to telling the different stories from his community.

Malik Martin is the social media manager and photographer for Memphis Rox, a state of the art climbing gym that has transcended the classic model of business. With a “pay what you can” approach, Memphis Rox is more than a gym, and bigger than climbing. It’s a glimpse into the future where a climbing gym can become a crucible for diversity, inclusivity and community.

Anker and Martin met during the filming of the documentary “Black Ice,” which follows a crew of aspiring ice climbers from the Memphis Rox gym who travel to the frozen wilds of Montana, where Manoah Ainuu, Conrad Anker and Fred Campbell share their love of winter adventure in the mountains. The two will be discussing the documentary as well as bringing inclusivity to the outdoors.

As an innovator in youth development, Gateway Mountain Center’s mission is to positively transform the lives of youth. By connecting to self, nature, and community, youth of all backgrounds learn, heal and thrive. Through high-impact nature-based learning, wellness adventures, and innovative, non-traditional therapeutic approaches to mental health and wellness, Gateway Mountain Center has served over 25,000 youth of all backgrounds.

The Donor Party, the anonymous philanthropic arm of the Winter Speaker Series, will supplement the funds raised.

For the 16th annual season, we are excited to welcome the community back to in-person shows at Olympic Village Lodge, but only in a limited capacity with Covid-19 safety precautions in place. Proof of vaccination, valid identification and masks are required for entry, without exception. There will be limited capacity (500 total) seating so please arrive early.

FOR THOSE THAT CAN’T MAKE THE LIVE STREAM: If you can’t make the live-stream at 7pm PT, you can still join the adventure – but you need to register! We’ll make the link viewable for everyone that registers, regardless of when you view it.

BROUGHT TO YOU BY ALPENGLOW SPORTS