De La Salle Holy Cross College Grade 7 learner Coco Senekal (13) kept her focus with 23 seconds remaining on her final attempt to secure a double victory at the South African National Climbing Championships.

She claimed two national titles in the U13 girls’ category, winning both lead climbing and bouldering after four days of competition from September 24 to 27. Coco said that winning both titles made her feel amazing and relieved, especially because her competitors were all excellent climbers.

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The championships tested her across two different disciplines. Lead climbing demands endurance as competitors work their way up a high wall, while bouldering focuses on strength, technique and solving shorter, challenging climbing routes. The competition included qualifying rounds and finals. In lead climbing, 11 girls competed in the qualifying round, with eight progressing to the final. The bouldering competition attracted 13 girls from across the country, with eight advancing to the final.

One of Coco’s most nerve-racking moments came during the bouldering final, when she needed three attempts to complete a climb. She managed it with just 23 seconds remaining on her third attempt. Although she hoped to win, Coco went into the championships focused on having fun and doing her best, rather than expecting to take home both titles.

Her progress has been supported by new coaches who have guided and challenged her over the past year. She trains three times a week, with two one-hour sessions and one session lasting an hour and a half.

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One of the biggest challenges in her development has been mastering dynamic moves and jumps. To manage the mental pressure of competition, she uses breathing exercises and reminds herself to enjoy the climb.

Coco first discovered the sport after her brother was invited to a party at CityROCK climbing gym. She was drawn to the constantly changing routes, which challenge climbers to think differently and develop new skills. Balancing climbing with school and friendships can be difficult, but she continues to prioritise the sport, supported by her family and coaches. “Climbing is my escape from everything,” she said.

Earlier this year, Coco also finished second at the London Youth Championships, an achievement she was particularly proud of. Her ambitions now extend beyond the national stage, with her sights set on representing South Africa at the Youth World Climbing Championships in China next year.

For now, her double national victory is another milestone in the journey of a young climber who continues to push herself… One route at a time.

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