Speaking of rock climbing, it's definitely a sport for the brave. For some people, just the thought of trying it might be terrifying. However, Yue Tong, a 7-year-old girl from Shenzhen, has shown everyone through her actions that — with courage, you can rock climb too. Not long ago, during a rock climbing event on Dawan Island in Zhuhai, over 100 rock climbing enthusiasts from all over China showed off their skills. But on those steep cliffs, the biggest draw was 7-year-old Zhang Yueting from Shenzhen.
A reporter asked 7-year-old rock climber Zhang Yueting: “Is it difficult?” Zhang Yueting: “Not really, it’s okay. Later I’m going to climb this route again.” Reporter: “You’re going to climb this one again? How many routes do you plan to do today?” Zhang Yueting: “All of them.” There are five climbing routes on this cliff, each around 30 to 40 meters high, with strong sea winds blowing. With such danger involved, how can parents be at ease? Zhang Yueting’s father: “It’s actually really good for her health. She’s been climbing since the middle class of kindergarten, and she’s basically never had a cold. Also, traveling all over the country lets her see more and gain more experience. Kids should read thousands of books and travel thousands of miles!”
Little Yueting’s father said that the little one has been active since childhood. After joining him for a rock climbing session once, she fell in love with it. Now, she won’t miss any climbing event she can take part in, and she especially loves competing with adults. Zhang Yueting’s father: “She climbs a lot of routes now mainly because of her height. Her height is a limiting factor, since many routes are designed for adults. So as a child, that puts her at a bit of a disadvantage. Other than that, there’s basically no difference between her and adults.”
At just 7 years old, Yueting has already participated in multiple National Youth Rock Climbing Championships and won championships in her age group. Next, she plans to go abroad and compete in international events. Truly, “ambition knows no age!”