Nottingham-born Leah Crane, 21, has made a big impact on the UK climbing scene, becoming the best British female boulder. At the end of this month, she will be defending her title at the British Bouldering Championships at Millhouses Park, Sheffield, on 26-27 June 2010. Thanks to a sponsorship deal from Berghaus, she has been able to spend the last year doing some of the most challenging climbs in Europe and taking her skills to the next level. She is now back in Sheffield.
What is bouldering? Climbing on rocks without a rope, generally only going to a height that would result in a non-lethal fall. With this level of relative safety, the moves can be at your physical limit without such a big risk of injury. It’s a growing sport, with more and more walls opening across the country.
Why do you like it so much? It’s brilliant for fitness, it provides a great mental challenge and the community that goes with is second to none.
What skills do you need? Good finger strength, flexibility and power.
How can people get started? Go to your local climbing wall and do an induction course.
Are you looking forward to defending your title in Sheffield? Yes, I’ll be doing battle on Sunday 27 June (Saturday 26 June is junior level). There are roughly 25 qualifying “problems” in the morning and four or five final “problems” in the afternoon.
How confident are you feel? I’m not willing to give up my title easily. I’ve just returned from a warm-up competition, which I won. That’s given me lots of confidence. And I feel fitter and in better shape than last year.
Who is your biggest competition? Dianne Merrick, Katy Whitaker and Shauna Coxsey.
Is bouldering a good sport for spectators? Yes! Bouldering suits an audience better than most disciplines of climbing. The gymnastic nature and difficulty of the moves and the closeness of the competition makes for a very exciting event.
Biggest achievements: Winning the British Bouldering Championships in Sheffield last year and climbing an 8a+ on my current European trip. My ultimate ambition is to win a round of the Bouldering World Cup.
Best thing about Sheffield? It’s right next to the Peak District so there are always lots of climbing opportunities nearby. My favourite climbing places around Sheffield are Stanage Plantation, Burbage Valley and Raven Tor.
Favourite places in Sheffield? Siam Inter Thai Restaurant, Broadfield Pub and The Climbing Works, where I train.
COMPETITION
This competition is now closed.
