Veronica, how and when did you start climbing? Was there a particular moment when you realized you could excel and that this sport could become something more than just a hobby?
I started climbing when I was five and a half years old. My godfather Danny Ho introduced me to this amazing sport and immediately saw something special in me. The moment I realized climbing could be more than a hobby was probably when I started competing at six years old. I remember the incredible excitement I felt when I managed to complete routes that initially seemed impossible. At seven years old I was already declaring my Olympic dreams! Danny nurtured my love for climbing while strengthening my self-confidence and problem-solving abilities. That’s when I understood it wasn’t just about fun: it was my calling.
Let’s talk about Fish Eye. How did you approach this route and which sections were the most difficult for you? Did you ever doubt you could complete it?
Fish Eye was incredibly difficult! The most challenging part was definitely endurance: 50 meters was way beyond anything I had tried before, since my previous maximum length was only 31 meters. The 35-degree overhang and technical sequences required everything I had. Honestly, during the two weeks of attempts and failures I had moments of doubt. The rope kept getting heavier as I climbed, and I wasn’t ready for that. But my coaches David and Toni prepared me very well, both mentally and physically. I learned to stay calm, take strategic breaks to recover, and trust my preparation. Confidence doesn’t come from arrogance, but from preparation.
I know that when you arrived in Spain you studied several routes before deciding, together with your team, that Fish Eye could be the right one for you. I imagine your height and arm span limit many routes, at least for now: how do you deal with this aspect?
You’re absolutely right: my stature limits some route options. During that week of research with my coaches, we had to carefully evaluate the distance between holds and the reach required by the routes. But I’ve learned that climbing isn’t just about physical characteristics: technique, creativity, and the ability to find alternative solutions matter. Sometimes being smaller means I have to be more dynamic or find different sequences than those a taller climber would use. My coaches have helped me overcome these limitations by focusing on my strengths: flexibility, technique, and problem-solving ability. I see it more as an interesting puzzle than as a disadvantage.
With Fish Eye you ended up in the spotlight. How are you experiencing this moment?
Being in the spotlight has been overwhelming, but exciting! It surprises me that people around the world are interested in my climbing journey. It’s surreal to think that breaking this world record has inspired so many people. I’m grateful for all the support, but I try to stay grounded and remember that this is just the beginning of my path. The spotlight brings responsibility: I want to be a positive role model for other young climbers, especially for girls. Sometimes the pressure is intense, but my family and coaches help me focus on what really matters: my love for climbing and continuous improvement.
Given your age, I’m curious to know how you spend your days: who accompanies you on your athletic journey? How much time do you dedicate to training and other activities not related to climbing?
My days are carefully balanced between climbing, school, and being a normal kid! My mother Vivian manages everything behind the scenes. My father Alan is my constant companion: he’s made incredible sacrifices, even getting hurt during our trip to Spain, but never stopping supporting my dreams. My coaches create structured training programs that don’t overload me. I regularly attend school and also love other activities like swimming, running, and taekwondo—I even got my black belt! My family makes sure I have time for friendships and play. Climbing never feels like work to me, because I’m surrounded by people who make it fun while helping me excel.
Do you talk about climbing with your classmates and peers, even if they might not share your same passion?
Yes, I love telling my classmates about my climbing adventures! Most of them find it fascinating, even though they don’t climb. They’re always curious about the routes I’m working on and get excited when I reach new milestones. Some think it’s crazy that I hang from rock walls, but they support me and are proud to have a “world record friend.” I try not to talk only about this though, I want to listen to their interests too. Actually it’s nice sometimes to talk about normal kid stuff. My classmates help me stay grounded and remember that there’s a whole world beyond climbing.
Is there someone who inspires you in the climbing world?
Chris Sharma is definitely one of my biggest inspirations! The fact that he bolted Fish Eye makes it even more special for me. His creativity and pioneering spirit in route development amazes me. I also deeply admire my coaches Liu Yong-Bang and Xiao Ting, who taught me that “effort doesn’t guarantee success, but giving up always leads to failure.” They’ve shown me how to face challenges with resilience. My godfather Danny Ho continues to inspire me every day with his confidence in my abilities. These climbers and coaches don’t just excel technically, but embody the values and mindset that make climbing beautiful.
