Tony Yaniro

Tony Yaniro, born october, 9, 1962, is an American professional rock climber known for his unique climbing style and for being the first person to successfully climb a grade 8a (5.13b) climbing route. He has been considered one of the founders of modern climbing training and has made a number of first ascents of difficult routes in the United States.

His training programs have been used to develop climbing fitness and endurance in all types of climbers, and have been used by some of the world's greatest alpinists and high-altitude mountaineers.

Tony Yaniro grew up in California and began climbing at the age of 11 when he discovered the sport at a summer camp. In 1974, he free climbed the first pitch of Anti-Jello Crack (5.10a) and would soon gain notoriety for out-climbing veteran climbers at Suicide Rock. At age 16 in 1978, Yaniro free climbed The Pirate (5.12d).