Congratulations to Hamish McArthur on completing a very successful 2016 climbing season!
Hamish is a 14-year-old junior athlete who is sponsored by Tracsis plc and 2016 was his first full season as an international climber with the British team.
He climbed at four EYC (European Youth Cup) events last year, two in Lead Climbing and two in Bouldering. Hamish is one of just a few climbers who are in the British team for both disciplines (Olympic climbers are required to compete in both events) and the EYC events provided him with a great experience of what he needs to build upon to push for a podium this year.
Hamish also took part in a number of UK competitions in 2016 and won his first open (competing against adults). He also came third in the British Bouldering Championships and first in the Lead Climbing Championships – his third win in a row! In addition to this success, he has won an Active York Sports Award and sponsorship from Italian clothing brand - La Sportiva.
Hamish has also now been selected for the 2017 GB Development Squad and has been told that his long range target is the Youth Olympics which is due to be held in Buenos Aires in 2018. He has an excellent coach who has written a rigorous 6-day training plan to help him achieve these ambitious goals. This structure has helped Hamish to improve and get stronger so that he is able to peak for the international competitions that he has been selected for this year.
As well as competing in European events, the sponsorship Tracsis has provided has also allowed Hamish to attend the GB training camps which were held at four different venues in 2016. Here, he worked on improving his competition skills and overcoming personal challenges.
Tracsis is proud to continue its support of talented young athletes like Hamish, providing access to the opportunities and support they need to succeed in their chosen field.