Bootcamp: Daila Ojeda

Global Athlete Daila Ojeda has never really trained before. For her, climbing is less about planning and regiment and more about being in the outdoors, inspired by an aesthetic line. Through BD Bootcamp she learned she really can commit to a training plan and realized how much she truly loves to climb outside. This is her story.



Video: Louder Than 11, Words: Daila Ojeda

Why did you commit to spending three weeks away from home training in a climbing gym?

When I started climbing, I used to climb at the gym but I never did a real training plan, so when I talked about it with my friends Colette and Babsi, I was very excited about doing this new experience. It was really nice to share this time with them. I can't imagine doing this training alone!

What did you gain or learn from three weeks at Project Bootcamp?

During these three weeks I really missed climbing beautiful routes in nature, so through this experience I realized how much I love to climb outside. It taught me to appreciate even more how lucky I am to be able to always climb outside.





Image: Jon Glassberg

Did you have a specific weakness that you wanted to improve? If so, did you improve that weakness?

Sure! I have a lot of weaknesses—too many! I think three weeks isn't time enough to improve a weakness. For sure, I would need to work longer and harder, but I'm happy trying my projects with my weaknesses. Climbing is a beautiful thing, it's not just about performance.

What did you learn about yourself through this process?

I learned that I can be committed to things even if I am not a planner. I love improvisation but I can be disciplined too. I complained but I trained!





Image: Jon Glassberg

Would you do this again? What would you change next time?

Sure I could do it again, especially if I can do it with other motivated climbers like this time, but I would combine the training with some climbing days outside. It's also important for me to touch the rock and be outside.

What would you tell other climbers who are trying to improve your climbing?

I think climbing is the best way to improve and get better at climbing. And, of course, you need to love what you do.

What project were you training for during your time at Bootcamp?

Le Nabab (8b+/5.14a), in Saint Leger du Ventoux, France. I was really motivated to try this route because it's such an aesthetic line. The first time I saw the line I felt in love with it.





Image: Jan Novak

Even though you were there for only three weeks, were you able to tap into Mesa Rim’s community?

The Mesa Rim community is awesome. People from the gym were always really helpful and training with Rosie was really nice! She is so motivated and strong, it was easy with them for sure. I am really thankful.

—Daila Ojeda