Originally from Detroit and now based in Flagstaff, Arizona, Lor Sabourin is an over-stoker in the climbing world and a dedicated advocate for mental health and LGBTQIA2S+ rights. Lor  recently completed the second ascent of Mason Earle’s ‘Stranger than Fiction’ (8c/5.14b), one of the United States’ most challenging pure crack climbs. Their climbing resume also includes redpoints of ‘East Coast Fistbump’ (8b+ trad), the multi-pitch ‘Cousin of Death’ (8b/5.13d), and Sedona’s renowned offwidth, ‘The Mechanical Bull’ (8a+/5.13c). Lor has also onsighted ‘Tricks are for Kids’ (8a/5.13b) and Yosemite Valley’s ‘The Phoenix’ (7c+/5.13a). Lor is passionate about the process of training and goal setting, finding immense joy in the dedication and commitment required to achieve their climbing objectives. 

Off the rock, Lor serves as a trauma therapist, working with survivors of domestic violence and sexual assault, and as a mental performance coach, helping athletes of all levels reach their potential. With a Masters degree in Mental Health Counseling and an EdS in Adventure and Nature-based Counseling, Lor specializes in mind-body approaches to mental health and uses outdoor, movement-based methods to foster individual and community resiliency.

In 2021, Lor’s story was featured in Patagonia’s film ‘They/Them’, highlighting their journey as a non-binary athlete and their commitment to advocacy. Lor’s activism is centered around creating opportunities for individuals with marginalized identities to access joy and community support.

Image: © Timmy O’Neil