Robyn Erbesfield-Raboutou

Profession: Rock Climber

Biography: Robyn Erbesfield-Raboutou is an American rock climber and coach. She is best known for taking the Climbing World Cup title four times, as well as coaching key names in the next generation of climbers. Her achievements led to her being inducted into the Boulder Sports Hall of Fame in 2018.

Erbesfield-Raboutou's ascent began with her victory at the inaugural Climbing World Cup held in Leeds in 1989. She then went on to dominate the competition lead climbing scene, winning the overall World Cup title annually from 1992 to 1995.

In addition to her competition successes, she carved out a place in rock climbing history by becoming the third woman to clear a climb graded 5.14a (8b+).

Seeking to nurture future climbing talent, Erbesfield-Raboutou established the ABC Kids Climbing gym. The gym became a launching pad for young climbers who have since made their mark in the climbing world.

Among her protégés are her daughter, Brooke Raboutou, and Colin Duffy, both of whom represented their country in the 2020 Olympics. Climbers such as Margo Hayes and Natalia Grossman have also trained under her guidance.

Erbesfield-Raboutou's personal life is closely intertwined with the sport. She married French climber Didier Raboutou, with whom she has two children, Brooke and Shawn Raboutou. Both Shawn and Brooke have followed in their mother's footsteps, becoming accomplished climbers in their own rights.

Her own climbing feats include successfully redpointing an 8c route and being the first woman to onsight an 8a+ route. As well as her practical contributions, her story and impact were chronicled in Chris Noble’s Women Who Dare: North America's Most Inspiring Women Climbers published in November 2013.

Born: August 8, 1963
Birthplace: Atlanta, Georgia, USA
Age: 60 years old

Generation: Baby Boomer
Chinese Zodiac: Rabbit
Star Sign: Leo