Eleven-year-old North Vancouver twins Erin and Anika Husken started climbing when they were five years old.
Introduced to the sport by their parents, they now train at The Hive North Shore Climbing Gym. These days, they mainly do bouldering indoors and rope climbing outdoors in Squamish, Whistler and even Italy. Last year, the Grade 6 sisters climbed Stawamus Chief (“the Chief”) in Squamish.
“It was awesome!” reports Anika.
The pair have also competed in provincial open bouldering events.
We asked Erin and Anika to answer some questions about their climbing experience. The following are their answers.
North Shore News: Why did you want to start climbing?
Erin: Because it was challenging to finish the climb and get to the top, but it was also fun.
Anika: I wanted to start climbing because I had heard about the sport so I tried it once and I grew to love it.
NSN: What do you remember about the first time you went climbing?
Erin: I remember that I could barely keep my feet on the wall and the handholds were small, but at the same time it was cool to look down and be so far from the ground.
Anika: I remember having lots of fun and being nervous but always trying my hardest.
NSN: What do you like about climbing?
Erin: The harder the climb is, the better you get. I like having to trust your body to do the right thing.
Anika: I love trying new things with my group and my coaches.
NSN: Is climbing easy to learn?
Erin: If you start with easy climbs, yes. And then you work your way up. You can get really good.
Anika: Climbing itself is easy, but actually knowing different ways to figure out a climb is the hardest part. We are all on different levels.
NSN: What are some of the specific skills you need to have or develop in order to be a good climber?
Erin: You need to have strong fingers and mental strength to be a good climber. It is also good to be able to place your feet in the right spot.
Anika: To be a good climber you have to be fit and strong and committed. You have to be flexible to move around.
NSN: How do you know you are a good climber?
Erin: Once you have accomplished your goal that is hard to get.
Anika: Whether you are good or not you have to keep trying.
NSN: Do you ever get scared being up so high?
Erin: Yes, I get scared being up so high, and I don’t like falling from the top so I climb down half way and then drop.
Anika: Yes, sometimes I get scared. We have to practise being safe but also take risks on climbs we want to complete.
NSN: What would you like other kids to know about climbing?
Erin: To listen to your coaches. They are really helpful if you want to learn.
Anika: It’s not for everyone but I like climbing with new people.
NSN: Do you think any kid could learn how to climb?
Erin: Yes, I think any kid can learn to climb because there are different levels for everybody.
Anika: Yes, I think every kid could do it but you have to always try your hardest.
The Hive North Shore offers a variety of summer camps (starting at age six) and ongoing programs for kids and youth.
Visit the website at hiveclimbing.com/northshore for more information.
