Q&A wth Michael Bleazard
Tell us about your connection with climbing?
I was fortunate to experience numerous outdoor pursuits when I was younger – this paired with a love of sports led me to taking up climbing in a period of boredom whilst studying.
Nearly two decades have passed since those early formative days climbing in GCC and I can truly say climbing has never ceased to be exciting.
My own personal ambitions within climbing have kept my passion fuelled although these days seeing clients I’ve worked with grow and learn brings me just as much joy.
Why do you like climbing?
I love it for it’s both physical and puzzling elements. It feels appropriate to both train like a weight lifter and move like a ballet dancer in equal measures.
What is your favourite type of climbing?
Bouldering . After 5 moves everything else is hill walking.
What made you want to work in climbing?
To get free climbing at the wall!
Whilst my earliest role had somewhat of an ulterior motive I have loved taking on further challenges querying and pushing my understanding of both coaching and route setting.
What made you want to join the ClimbScotland team?
With the recent pathway changes I believe there’s a seismic change afoot. Having being involved briefly within the GB setup I saw first hand how we could potentially improve the Scottish landscape to further assist our athletes, coaches, setters and walls.
I wanted to join to be part of a team, a team who are all passionate about change, growth and improving the Scottish landscape for years to come.
What is your main ambitions with your role?
A more insular, hyper connected Scotland offering appropriate resources for all our athletes.