GB Development Squad member and young climber
Thank you to Rhys for letting us interview him at the 2019 Open Youth Lead Championships at The Big Depot, Leeds.
Who you are and what do you do?
My name’s Rhys Conlon, I’m 12 and I’m in the GB climbing team
What was your first climbing experience?
I think it was when I joined the Mini Kids in Craggy Island after I was on holiday in Wales and my Dad found me quite high up on one the sea cliffs, a couple of metres up and had to get me down.
How did you know that climbing was your thing?
I didn’t really. I just joined Mini Kids and then asked to joined the squad and it just carried on from there.
Where is your favourite outdoor climb?
Oh that’s tricky, I’ve done so many. There some places in Malham I like, some places in Spain, Wales, everywhere.
What has been your proudest climbing moment?
I think it was probably when I got into the GB team.
What are your ambitions?
To stay in the GB team and get into the adult team. Compete in the world cups.
Lead, Speed or Boulder and Why?
Probably lead because I really like it and I’m good at it at the moment. Bouldering’s good as well, I like that, it’s fun. Speed’s okay, yeah.
What are your most liked and hated healthy foods?
I hate a few vegetables actually. I hate carrots, I hate broccoli, cauliflower, all of that. My favourite food is noodles, sushi that’s great. Pizza!
If not climbing, what sport would you be doing?
I don’t know.
Give us an inspiring quote (either yours or someone else’s).
So my sponsor told me this once. “If you can hit it, you can hold it.” That’s my favourite.
For more information about Rhys see his Instagram account, RhysConlon.
Rhys is sponsored by Rock On climbing and Craggy Island climbing
Interviewed by Kai Main
