As an adult, the outdoors have become a place to escape and build for Rodel Querubin. Although Rodel didn’t grow up spending a lot of time outdoors, his move to Minnesota transformed him into a multi-sport enthusiast and a vital community leader. 

As the founder of a BIPOC-focused climbing organization in the Twin Cities, Rodel is on a mission to make the beauty of Minnesota accessible to everyone. From climbing clinics and events, to advocating for Athletic Brewing and the Two For the Trails grant program, Rodel brings passion to everything he does. 

Continue reading to hear about Rodel’s journey to embracing life outdoors, the importance of community to him, and his love for Athletic Brewing and Two for The Trails, as we highlight Rodel Querubin in our February Ambassador Spotlight. 

How did you get into outdoor sports?

I didn’t grow up very outdoorsy or active, but when we moved to Minnesota, my love for being outside and active grew. My co-workers introduced me to all kinds of outdoor sports including climbing, snowboarding, cross-crossing skiing, and my newest endeavour, mountain biking. Not only do I love to participate in rock and ice climbing, but I also occasionally instruct others in climbing! 

No matter what type of activity you are participating in, Minnesota is such a beautiful, serene, and calming place. We are blessed in the Twin Cities to have so much access to public outdoor spaces and activities. 

In what ways is community important to you? 

I am the founder of an organization that supports the BIPOC (Black, Indigenous, and People of Color) climbing community in Minnesota. Through this group, we provide opportunities, resources, and mentorship around climbing and outdoor education for the BIPOC community of the Twin Cities. 

Right now we are in the midst of the ice climbing season, so we are working with various festivals in Minnesota and the Northern Midwest who all have BIPOC clinics. A few years ago our organization started financially supporting participants of those clinics who were in need. At our organization, we focus on inclusivity and making outdoor activities available to the BIPOC community. 

How did you first hear about Athletic Brewing Company? 

It is actually very connected to climbing! I was a part of the largest and oldest climbing organization in the country and I kept seeing Athletic cans at their events. From my own experience I had written off non-alcoholic beers. Once I had Athletic, I thought to myself - “I don’t know what magic they put into this, but it tastes exactly like the real thing!” 

What do you enjoy about being an Athletic Ambassador? 

One of the things that I enjoy the most about being an Athletic Ambassador is having the opportunity to tell people about the Two For the Trails program. Since I am heavily involved in outdoor sports and spaces, I am able to talk about local trails or groups in Minnesota that have been recipients of the grant to help fund their projects. 

I also love being able to spread the word about how good non-alcoholic beers, specifically Athletic, can taste! It is always a great option to have when you want to be social, but don’t want the side-effects of alcohol. 

What are you looking forward to in 2026? 

I am really looking forward to getting back into the rhythm of climbing for myself and keep pursuing my newest interest, mountain biking. I love that I am able to give back to my community, but this year I want to carve out some time for myself to fall back in love with some of the things I teach other people to do.