World Champion & GB Paraclimbing team member
Thank you to Matthew for letting us interview him at Oakwood Climbing Centre.
Who you are and what do you do?
I’m Matthew Phillips and I’m a GB paraclimber.
What was your first climbing experience?
My first real climbing experience was the paraclimbing national series at The Castle Climbing in London. That was the first time I took climbing seriously; I’d done a few parties before that, but I’d not really call that experience.
How did you know that climbing was your thing?
I came 2nd in this comp; so that’s pretty good. I thought I’d give it a go, always been a sporty person so it seemed to click.
Where is your favourite outdoor climb?
Flying Buttress Direct up in the Peak District; an absolute classic. I’ve seconded it and it got rained off so I need to go back for the lead soon.
What has been your proudest climbing moment?
I think my proudest moment, the world championships. Obviously winning on that stage, in front of that audience was yeah, a pretty proud moment for sure.
What are your ambitions?
I’ve peaked too early most people say [laughs] but I’m looking at getting into the Paralympics, hopefully soon. That’s obviously the next step up and that’s always the goal, a Paralympic medal. That’d be the ambition for sure.
Lead, Speed or Boulder and Why?
Bouldering probably. I like to be pretty dynamic. Yeah I’m not very fast, I tried it before and didn’t go very well.
What are your most liked and hated healthy foods?
I like almonds, are they healthy? Yeah they’re healthy. Yeah I like almonds. I don’t eat that much healthy food [laughs]. Most hated healthy snack, bananas.
If not climbing, what sport would you be doing?
Sport? Flips. It’s a combination of gymnastics, martial arts and just movement really. It’s all about movement really. I do enjoy my flips a bit. [laughs]
Give us an inspiring quote (either yours or someone else’s).
” When you’re old all you have left are stories, so make them good ones.”
For more information about Matthew check out his website, Instagram or Facebook.
Interviewed by Rose
