How long have you been rock climbing for and what got you into climbing in the first place?

I have been climbing competitively for four years now, since I was eleven, starting with a social comp at my gym. My first indoor rock climbing experience was when I was 4 years old at my cousin’s birthday party, but I have been climbing furniture, trees and door frames around my house since I was 8 months old.

Explain the different types of climbing competitions you normally do and which is your favourite?

There are three disciplines of indoor rock climbing for competition – bouldering, lead climbing and speed climbing. Bouldering is rock climbing on short walls, with no safety gear other than a crash mat. In competitions there are a few boulder problems and the aim is to get to the top of as many climbs in as few attempts as possible.

In lead climbing, the climber and belayer are attached to a rope and a harness and the climber clips the safety rope to quickdraws on the wall as they climb, focusing on endurance on tall walls. Speed climbing is the less popular discipline, on a 15 metre wall that a climber has to complete as quickly as possible. My favourite discipline is bouldering as the moves in bouldering are more powerful and fun as there is no rope restricting your movements.

You’re 15 now, in school and climbing every day! Do you see yourself continuing with climbing over the next 5 years? Is there a goal you’re working towards?  

I do see myself continuing with climbing for as long as possible, because I don’t only climb for competition, but also for fitness, relaxation and fun. I have already achieved a major goal of mine, by representing Australia in bouldering and lead climbing at an international event, where I made it into the final round. Next year I plan to compete in the open category for the first time, as well as my youth category.

You and your family also do lots of travelling and camping – where is your favourite place you’ve been in the last couple years?

I love camping and travelling and have enjoyed most of my experiences, but my favourite would have to be camper-vanning in New Zealand. It is such a beautiful place and I love the cold weather. There is also really good climbing there.

Thanks Kate! We want to wish you all the best in your future climbing adventures.

Thanks Barefoot.  I’ve enjoyed writing this little piece for you. Can’t wait to see what happens in 2019 and of course I’ll keep you all updated.

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