RRGCC Legacy Members
Class of 2022
Shannon Stuart-Smith
As the RRGCC's founder and first Executive Director, Shannon has championed rock climbing access in the Red River Gorge since the very first conversations on the matter in the 1990's. She has remained an active member of the route development community in the Gorge for three decades now, pushing for the installation of appropriate cliffline infrastructure prior to the publication of new routes to prevent excess erosion.
Hugh Loeffler
Well known for his resume of classic first ascents, most notably 'Orange Juice' at Funk Rock City, Hugh turned around from an early mishap with the Forest Service to lead the charge among route developers to approach new climbing access the proper way and build relationships with landowners. He also sat on the early RRGCC Board of Directors, serving one of the longest tenures as President from 1998 to 2003.
Dr. Robert Matheny
Let's just start out by saying the PMRP might not be here today if it was not for Dr. Bob's unwavering generosity. Time and time again, he selflessly supported the RRGCC in paying its mortgage, not to mention the outright purchase of Torrent Falls when it was put up for sale and access was threatened. On top of all of that, Dr. Bob donated even more of his time to the climbing community as RRGCC President from 2005 to 2009.
John Bronaugh
Prolific first ascensionist, guidebook author, first RRGCC President, and legal counsel. That is the short list of hats John wore while helping the Red River Gorge blossom into what it is today. You may hear people refer to him as King of the Red River Gorge, which might even be an understatement after all he contributed to the RRGCC and Gorge as a whole. The King's legacy lives on through the RRGCC's annual Johnny & Alex Trail Day, hosted each June to maintain and improve the climbing areas we all love.