I initially wanted to be a mountaineer and climb in the greater ranges and high mountains, however living in London at the time, the closest thing I had at my disposal was the indoor climbing wall and long-distance running. I picked up both around the age of 17 before focusing on rock climbing when I went to university in Wales. All of my early climbing was with friends at university, mostly in North Wales and entirely traditional climbing for the first 3 years.
‘Having spare time to spend on things like climbing is something I hope never to take for granted. Every day out in the hills is a privilege and should be treated as such.'
I started broadening my climbing path after university with trips to larger crags such as the Verdon and Riglos, becoming increasingly more interested in big walls and sport climbing. I have spent most of my time climbing abroad in this style, however I shift focus back to traditional climbing and bouldering when home in Wales.
In my spare time I still enjoy running in the hills around my house and cooking. I have completed several ultra-distance fell races, including coming 9th in the Snowdonia Ultra marathon 2015.
I work as a therapeutic care practitioner with young people and savor every opportunity to introduce them to climbing, adventures and the outdoors.
James' Training Secret:
Not getting injured is the best way to get strong. Don't be scared to take a break, rest takes less time than rehab.