project

Question
Jeff, my name is Leslie and I am a senior at Assumption College in Worcester, MA.  I am presently working on a rock climbing project for a sports marketing class and was hoping to ask you some questions.  What kind of person do you think businesses target for rock climbing?  What kind of demographics, such a gender, education or age do you think they have?  Do you think most rock climbers have particular activities, interests or opinions in common?  If so, what might they be? I apoligize for asking questions you might not normally expect, however, any information will be greatly appreciated.  Thank you!

Answer
Leslie,
I will try to answer the questions based on my years of climbing with hundreds of different people. This is not scientific but only my observations. The marketing has also changed as indoor climbing gyms were developed. I would hazard to say 50% of poeple who say they rockclimb have NEVER climbed outdoors on real rock.
1) The kind of people businesses target has changed over the years. Right now I would say they target the adventure/extreme sport people. Mountain bikers, kayaker's, skiers, snowboarders. You people who have some money to spend.
2) Both genders, but products are different. Some utilize yung women other focus on men, but men are still the primary demo. I think they target the college educated in the late 20's to 40's. These people have diposable income and will spend on hobbies.
3) I would say most climbers I have met are moderate to left politically. They are conservationists and environmentalists. They are a peaceful lot, but not prone to political discussions, but love to talk about thier sport and share stories.  Climbers for the most part are friendly welcoming people who will share thier experience and stories.

Good luck

Jeff