Many Vanderbilt alumni go on to accomplish incredible feats in all facets of life, but Meagan Martin, class of 2012, has set herself apart in a field much different from that of any other graduate. The former Vanderbilt record-holding pole vaulter has enjoyed a recent career as a professional rock climber, participating in competitions all over the country. However, earlier this year, Martin showcased her impressive talent on the extremely challenging obstacle course show American Ninja Warrior. Shocking the world in her first attempt in the Denver Qualifier, Meagan Martin became the third woman ever to finish the course, in an incredible 4:46.29. In the process, she passed the Devil Steps obstacle, being the first woman to accomplish this feat, which requires an astonishing amount of upper body strength. Standing at an extremely built frame of 5 feet 4 inches, 135 pounds, Martin secured a Wild Card spot for the Las Vegas National Finals. Yet again, Megan set another feat, becoming the first woman to make it through the Jumping Spider, in which she especially utilized her rock climbing skills. Although it was a unique course, Martin explained, “I figured that my experiences as a gymnast and pole vaulter would help me get through the course along with just being a professional climber.” She noted that her intensive training schedule of five to six days a week, two to fours hours a day for climbing remained her main method for preparation. Not to be outdone, she said, “During the two months that I had American Ninja Warrior stuff going on, I also had three big climbing competitions.” Though climbing and the American Ninja Warrior course have some similarities, including having only one shot to complete each challenge, Martin noted that there are several differences. “The American Ninja Warrior course has so many different obstacles that are meant to test many different things. In climbing, it doesn’t always come down to how strong you are or how hard something is, but it is more about figuring out the sequences,” she said. more
