Yumping.- Hello Gerard, how are you? First of all, we want to congratulate you on your latest great achievement. How do you feel?
Gerard Rull.- Hello Yumpers. Well, I'm really happy to have fulfilled a dream like this.
Y.- What has this ascent meant for your climbing career?
G.R.- For me, both personally and professionally, it's been about reaching that summit you always dream of but never know if you'll achieve. I could say I've reached the pinnacle of my sporting career, I think...
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Y.- How much training did you have to do to conquer La Rambla 9a+?
G.R.- Honestly, since I started climbing I've always trained systematically, both by myself and with different coaches. Saying I did specific training just for La Rambla wouldn't be entirely honest. So I've been training for about 15 years... hehehe!
Y.- For those who aren't very familiar with climbing, how would you define a 9a+ route?
G.R.- 9a+ routes can be of different styles, more or less overhanging, longer or shorter. But they're typically routes with very distinct powerful sections (bouldery), very endurance-based and technical with quite small footholds.
Y.- At what age did you realise climbing would be your world?
G.R.- When I started I got so hooked that I knew I could never give up climbing.
Y.- Could you describe what you feel when you're climbing?
G.R.- It depends a lot on the day or the route, but I always really enjoy climbing. I feel happy and calm.
Y.- Many of our readers are just starting out in climbing or thinking about trying it - what advice would you give them?
G.R.- Enjoy the learning process - it's beautiful because you learn something every time you go climbing. Don't stress about progressing grades, take it step by step. The grades will come with time.
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Y.- Physical condition is undoubtedly very important for this sport, but we assume mental strength is crucial too, right?
G.R.- It's vital, because these kinds of routes really test you psychologically. Every failed attempt takes a lot out of you because you're giving 100%. You have to be a bit stubborn and keep fighting without getting discouraged.
Y.- In other extreme or adventure sports, athletes get sponsorship support. Is it the same in climbing? Or do climbers have to cover all costs themselves?
G.R.- Climbing is a minority sport where brands invest the bare minimum in sponsorship. Personally I receive support from two brands - Beal and Scarpa - who provide all my climbing gear. But I don't receive any financial support. My best sponsor is myself (laughs)
Y.- To get to know you a bit better, what's a typical day in the life of Gerard Rull?
G.R.- I get up at 6am, start work at 7 until 2:30pm. Get home around 3, eat, and go training from 4:30pm until 8pm. Then I go for an hour's run, come home for dinner and sleep. A bit stressful (laughs).
Y.- What's been the happiest day of your climbing life?
G.R.- I've had many happy days climbing, but if I had to choose one it would be when I completed La Rambla.
Y.- What's the longest period you've gone without climbing?
G.R.- About 6 months due to an injury.
Y.- Speaking of injuries, in all these years have you had any serious scares or injuries while climbing?
G.R.- Yes, I've been quite unlucky and ruptured the annular finger pulleys in both my right and left hands. Ended up needing surgery.
Y.- Is it easy to meet people and make friends in this world?
G.R.- It's a very social sport - at the climbing wall or on weekends you always meet people who share your passion for the sport.
Y.- Besides climbing, do you practice any other adventure sports?
G.R.- I don't know if it counts as adventure, but I love skiing.
Y.- Is there any extreme sport you haven't tried but would like to?
G.R.- I'd really like to try BASE jumping
Y.- How would you describe yourself as a climber in 3 words?
G.R.- Hard-working, persistent and stubborn
Y.- What's your next goal?
G.R.- Right now I don't have one. I want to regain strength and relax before finding another big objective.
Thank you very much Gerard for answering our questions so sincerely and warmly, and for giving us all a glimpse into the world of climbing. We wish you the best of luck and hope to interview you again soon about another of your great achievements.
