A Year On

Almost a year ago to the day I started working with Mark Glennie and training with Shauna and Leah.

Over the last 12 months I have learnt a lot, about me, my climbing and what I want my life to be like.  Its pretty amazing how much can change in one year and how time works its magic.  The past year has allowed me to begin to understand numerous things, however I am very aware this is only me scratching the surface of what I will learn throughout my climbing career.

I’ve learnt to accept what the physical and mental demands of training at a high level feel like,

I’ve learnt about the way in which I should fuel my body to gain maximal output,

I’ve learnt the fact that I need the same amount of sleep as my baby cousin….

I’ve learnt what it feels like to try really flippin’ hard,

I’ve experienced what it feels like to achieve a (mini) dream,

I’ve also learnt just how badly I want to be going to World Cups!

I’ve learnt…..a LOT of things, the list could go on for a very long time!

If I think back to me a year ago, then I would never have predicted I would be where I am today. I am proud of how far I have come, both within climbing and as a person.  I am also mega excited for the next 12 months, the main reason for this being that I am now climbing full time!  After years of wanting to just be able to do just this I can now make it a reality.

Making this choice is definitely one that I didn’t find too difficult, however many people are surprised when I tell them.  So many people, most of my friends included, follow the traditional path of finishing school and going to university and living the student life.  This way of life just doesn’t really appeal to me at the moment.  Don’t get me wrong; I like partying, and I also like learning new academic things…but I LOVE going climbing.  In my mind, if I wasn’t really fussed about being a student then why pay all that money to do something I wasn’t that passionate about?  Why not channel my energy into something I am totally obsessed about and see where I can take things (something I’ve never done before)?  When you make a decision that doesn’t conform with ‘normality’ people are always going to be a little bit surprised.  I’m used to people being a little surprised by my path though, so that’s okay.  I’ve never been one to follow the standard route.

The next few weeks are set to be busy ones, with the Women’s Climbing Symposium just around the corner and a trip to Font on the horizon, the start of my full time career is definitely going to be fun!  I couldn’t be happier about the direction my life is headed and the amazing support system I am surrounded with.

Stay psyched!

3 Comments

  • Jean Boynton 29th September 2016 (5:33 pm)

    Congratulations. X

  • Rachel Lutkin-Clarke 29th September 2016 (6:50 pm)

    You go for it Gracie, super proud x

  • Mr Michael S Hayes 29th September 2016 (11:59 pm)

    Smash on Gracie, I have always been impressed by your ability. Going full time is the right option. University will always be there.

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