A SCHOOLBOY from Ellesmere Port, who has only been climbing for two years, has been selected to join Team GB's regional talent squad.
George Kendrick, 11, started some climbing classes before the pandemic in early 2020. He went on to complete NICAS (National Indoor Climbing Award Scheme) at The Climbing Hut in Ellesmere Port.
He very quickly progressed through his Level 1, 2 and 3 and people started to realise that George had a talent and so he began some 1-1 training at The Climbing Hut.
In 2022, George started attending local competitions and then national competitions where he was placing reasonably well and became a member of two climbing squads.
George's mum, Hayley Graham said: "It was all very quick if I'm honest.
"We do competitions nearly every weekend now."
Selection for Team GB
In November, George entered a Climbing Youth Series which resulted in him going to a National Grand Final, where he placed second in his region and 7th in the whole of the UK.
He also entered the English Bouldering Championship earlier this year, which he placed third and resulted in him being invited to a benchmarking day for Team GB's regional talent squad in Sheffield.
George was successful and is now part of Team GB's North-West regional talent squad.
There are three regional Talent squad regions, each with its own GB England Regional Pathway Coach.
Athletes are allocated groups initially based on age and stage but may move groups if another is more appropriate to their development needs.
Each athlete will also have a minimum of three ‘Individual Athlete Development Plan’ (IADP) development meetings with their GB England Regional Pathway Coach.
Hayley added: "His aim is to reach podium level at as many competitions as he can now, representing Team GB in climbing.
"I can't even put it into words. I am ridiculously proud. His climbing journey has been very short and he's shown real rapid development.
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"His dedication is absolutely unbelievable. He is also really good with other people in showing them how to climb safely and solve problems.
"He absolutely loves it. He just can't get enough of it."
In some competitions, George could reach walls 15 metres high and he trains at least four times a week, giving up his weekends to travel to competitions.
George spoke about his quick progress in the sport.
He said: "At the start, I wanted to quit because I didn't like it and it wasn't a very popular sport but then I realised I was good at it.
"I stuck at it for another year and it's turned out to me getting into Team GB.
"I am happy but it's just a bit crazy. I only started competitions a year ago."
George hopes to hopefully compete in European competitions and is looking for sponsors to help with coaching, travel and equipment, such as his climbing shoes, which are around £120 a pair.
Hayley added: "It's just to support his journey more and make sure that he is able to progress further."
You can see George in action on his Instagram and TikTok, @hang_with_george.
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