Hong Kong climber at World Cup in Japan aims for semi-final by using mind over muscle
Hei Yeung-lam has learned from his shortcomings at the last round of the Internation Federation of Sport Climbing World Cup as he heads to Japan
A Hong Kong climber is focused on technique over strength for the notoriously challenging bouldering problems at this weekend’s Internation Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC) World Cup in Hachioji, Japan.
“I’ve let my friends set more complicated routes for training, instead of routes that need power,” Hei Yeung-lam said. “Japan is usually the most complicated competition on the circuit.”
Bouldering is a form of rock climbing. Typically, each ‘problem’ is only a few metres off the ground so climbers do not need ropes, and the limited moves mean they can be pushed technically without worrying about endurance or rope work.
Hei believes he prospers on routes that require balance and flexibility, rather than brute strength, so this weekend’s competition could play into his hands.