Reaching new heights

Editor's note: This story will publish in the Register's Senior Living special section on Saturday, Jan. 28. SANDUSKY — Linda Waldock reached a peak performance in her personal fitness goals. "Many people have a bucket list of things they would like to do and, this, it was on mine," said Waldock, 75, who lives in Huron. Waldock referred to climbing all three sections of a 32-foot-tall rock climbing wall this past August at Paddle Bar in downtown Sandusky. For months beforehand, Waldock worked with her trainer — Dustin Smith, who trains people at Tim Dorsey Fitness, also located in downtown — to prepare her for this climb. "When you exercise with Dustin, he likes for you to set goals," Waldock said. "I have always wanted to do this." Smith educated Waldock on certain exercises to improve her hand and core strength. During her younger days, when she traveled overseas, Waldock found herself scaling many heights. This would include ascending various landmarks across Croatia, France, Ireland and Scotland. But her latest achievement takes on a special meaning for her. "This makes me feel as good as any of those accomplishments," said Waldock, who worked as a librarian at Firelands High School in Lorain County for many years. "I didn't want to let myself or Dustin down." Waldock then offered some advice to anyone seeking a new challenge no matter how old the person may be. "Everyone should think about improving their core and balance," Waldock said. "When you get up there in age, those are the things that, if it's weak and you're not good at, you will fall. Take a class with a trainer. It can also help." Editor's note: Since Waldock made the climb, Paddle Bar rock climbing wall moved to Goofy Golf.