At the recent South African National Climbing Federation (SANCF) held from September 12 to 14, Coco Senekal (12) placed first in bouldering and lead for her age category.

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The championships saw the determined climber travel to the Western Cape, where she showed her prowess as she summited climbs she knew she could conquer with deep belief in herself.

In climbing, bouldering is said to involve climbing short distances with no use of a rope, while lead is climbing high walls with the use of a rope. The community was first introduced to Coco in 2022, when she placed first at the Gauteng Climbing Junior Boulder Cup and also won the Gauteng Top Rope Cup.

Also read: Northcliff High represents South Africa in speed climbing

Ever wondered what skilled climbers such as Coco need for the perfect climb? Other than tenacity and the will to see yourself quite literally on top, you also need specific equipment. Here’s what Coco uses on her various climbs.

When preparing for lead climbing, she needs climbing shoes, a harness, chalk (for her hands not to get slippery on the grips) as well and a rope. Such climbs also have a belayer (someone who stands at the base) who controls a climbing rope. Some climbers also wear a helmet for lead climbing.

Boulder climbing needs far less equipment, just a chalk bag and climbing shoes.

Other things Coco has with her are definitely snacks, as climbers sit for long periods in isolation. She also packs tape to tape up her fingers as they get blistered.

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