Sight-impaired climber takes silver at first competition

Friday 23 September 2022

Guernsey-man Michael Ellis came second at his recent debut climbing competition, less than a year after taking up the sport following a social-prescription from his GP.

Mr Ellis (pictured), who is sight-impaired, travelled to Wales for the third round of the national paraclimbing series earlier this month.

His trip and training were sponsored by Ravenscroft, which also enabled his trainer and guide, Chris Harvey to accompany him through two qualifying rounds before reaching the final.

"To be able to go to Wales and compete alongside such great paraclimbers was an immense opportunity," Mr Ellis said on his return. "Being in the competition and then Chris and myself being on the podium to receive a medal still seems unbelievable."‌

Classified as B1, the most severe sight impairment, Mr Ellis first started climbing only a year ago, after a social prescribing referral from his GP. He works with climbing organisation Climb. 

"This trip wouldn’t have been possible without the support from Climb and Ravenscroft, and I hope it will show other people with additional needs what’s possible when you push yourself and put yourself out there," the silver medallist said.

Mr Ellis, who is also autistic, explained that climbers had a maximum of six minutes to complete each route up the 15-metre-high wall, with points being awarded for distance covered. Having only climbed in Guernsey, he said the routes involved things he had never had a chance to experience before.

"This event was particularly tough for me, so I am proud of the fact I had the courage to enter, I got there and I did my best. Having my name called to stand on the podium, and both Chris and I being awarded our very first medals made every challenge we’ve faced over the last year worth it.

"The achievement of getting a medal is amazing, and the thing that gets attention, but that is only a fraction of the achievement and benefits that I have got through climbing, although most of these are less visible to others."

Mr Ellis now plans to try his hand at outdoor climbing with Climb. Working with the Guernsey Sports Commission, Mr Ellis is also hoping to help make other sports more accessible.

"Next, I’m going to try stand up paddleboarding, which I’m very excited about. There’s such a variety of sport out there that can be accessible to everyone, we just need to do some work to figure out how to remove the barriers."