Its funny to think that often times, competitions get more difficult the more you do them. Sure, with more exposure comes more confidence, more experience, and more general knowledge of the sport. Yet, each passing comp brings a new wave of expectation and unnecessary pressure that feels like a weight vest on the wall. When I look back on old climbing videos, its very clear that I have changed (apart from the obvious 5 inches in height and 20 pounds in muscle). I always had a carefree demeanor and a giant grin back then, indifferent to highpoint and unconcerned with my placement- I just wanted to have fun.
Thats not to say that competitions can't be fun. In fact, I think the best athletes of all are the ones who enjoy putting on a show. With that being said, I think its too easy to fall into the trap of comparing yourself to a version of you that doesn't exist anymore. As climbers and athletes, we grow, we get stronger in some areas, and despite our best efforts, we get weaker in others. Ive learned that the only way to be happy with my climbing is to focus on the present and the things that I can control. If that means I feel about 50% on an important day of competition, I will strive to reach 100% of that 50%. Its a difficult pill to swallow, that we can't be our best selves every single day, but thats why I think its so important to enjoy competition climbing for what it is, and to separate results from the process that it takes to get them.
This summer, I tried to really focus on enjoying myself and ignoring the results. By doing so, both my attitude and my placement improved. At the Regional Championship, I managed to take gold in both speed and sport after almost missing the last clip and subsequently down climbing through the crux. At the Divisional Championship, I also took home the gold in speed and sport and helped my team take home the divisional title. At the National Championship, I was so happy to compete in finals for both speed and sport, and walked away from the competition feeling both happy with my performance and with my attitude.
Thank you to Soybu for the awesome clothes from their Orchid Pond - my personal favorite item for competitions was the Elodie Leggings!
On to the next adventure...
