From Climbing · John Duran · · 1m 10s
Native American Climber John Duran on Free Soloing 5.13
John Duran, a Southern Ute climber, free-soloed 5.13 and uses climbing for community in China.
In brief
John Duran, a Southern Ute climber, free-soloed 5.13 and uses climbing for community in China. John Duran, a Southern Ute climber, free-soloed 5.13 and uses climbing for community in China. Originally reported by Climbing.
John Duran's climbing background

John Duran, a Southern Ute climber, free-soloed 5.13 and uses climbing for community in China.
Duran's first free solo
Duran free-soloed Fainting Iman (5.13) at Cochiti Mesa, New Mexico in the mid 1980s.
Duran's family background
Duran's father was a Navajo teacher, mother a Southern Ute and Navajo nurse.
Duran's education journey

Duran's parents emphasized education, leading to his teaching career in China.
Climbing for community
Duran created a climbing area in Beijing with village support, attracting 50 people.
Duran's climbing philosophy
Duran used prayer and meditation to build confidence for free soloing.
Duran's community impact
Duran helped teachers on Navajo Reservation get grants and programs.
Duran's personal growth
Duran learned to accept identity and use climbing for community good.
In short
John Duran, a Southern Ute climber, free-soloed 5.13 and uses climbing for community in China.




