A sister and brother from Rhydypenau Primary School have been scaling the heights of success at the Youth Climbing Series Final, held at the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena, Ratho – Europe’s largest climbing arena.
Emily and Oscar Phillips, aged 11 and 8, from Cardiff made it onto the podium at the British Youth Climbing Series final in Edinburgh, coming first and third respectively in their categories.
British Climbing Champion, Emily Phillips, was in a new category of lead climbing, where the rope is clipped as you climb up the wall rather than the rope being attached to the top.
However, Emily is used to a challenge, having overcome open heart surgery at 3 months old and despite being one of the youngest in the 11-13 category, she won a well deserved first place. Not to be outdone, her brother Oscar Phillips showed great skill and courage by achieving third in his category, after completing some challenging routes.
Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, Cllr Julia Magill said:
“I am thrilled for Emily and Oscar to hear of their success in this prestigious National competition and look forward to hearing about future successes.
“Sport in our schools has a vital role to play, not just in the curriculum but also outside the classroom, giving our young people a sense of achievement and confidence – skills that build character and help them succeed in life.”
Applauding the siblings on their success, Headteacher Carolyn Evans said:
“Both Emily and Oscar are extremely dedicated and committed to their sport and have demonstrated real talent. We fully support them and I am confident that they will continue to successful for many years to come.
