In February of 2023, Cat Runner made history by winning HBO’s reality program, “The Climb,” becoming the best amateur climber in the competition. Despite initially feeling nervous about the lack of diversity in the competition, Runner was pleasantly surprised by the inclusivity of the event and the talented pool of climbers.
Runner’s success on “The Climb” went beyond just winning; it brought trans representation to the forefront of the climbing community. During an interview with USA TODAY, Runner shared his initial nerves about being part of a predominantly male sport but was impressed by how inclusive and welcoming it was. He believes that everyone should have a chance to experience physical activities and competition, regardless of their gender identity.
As a transgender athlete, Runner recognizes that there is a need for more representation in sports media. That’s why he is among four transgender athletes featured in USA TODAY’s video series “In Their Own Words,” which aims to give trans athletes a platform to share their experiences and perspectives. Runner hopes that this initiative will help shift the narrative surrounding trans athletes and inspire others to reach new heights in their own way.
Through his passion for outdoor activities and physical movement, Runner emphasizes the importance of creating safe and inclusive spaces for all athletes to thrive. He believes that sports can shape our identities and values, which is why he continues to advocate for transgender athletes and promote diversity in sports.
Overall, Cat Runner’s success on “The Climb” not only showcased his individual talent but also highlighted the importance of promoting diversity and inclusion in sports media. As more transgender athletes like him continue to break barriers and inspire others, we can hope for a more diverse and accepting future in sports.
