Adventure Magazine

Sarah and her son Eli at Northern Rocks
inspire
SARAH HAY
REDEFINING BOUNDARIES
In the world of climbing, there are
individuals who push the limits,
break barriers, and inspire others
with their unwavering dedication and
accomplishments. One such climber
is Sarah Hay, a remarkable figure who
has carved her path in the climbing
community. In this editorial feature,
we delve into Sarah Hay's journey,
exploring her passion for climbing,
notable achievements, and her unique
approach to the sport.
Sarah Hay's identity extends far beyond
climbing. As a mother, wife, business
owner, musician, and athlete, she
embodies a multitude of roles that
contribute to her holistic approach to
life. However, it is her deep-rooted
connection with climbing that truly
defines her.
Sarah's climbing journey began around
the age of 20 when a friend introduced
her to outdoor climbing. From the very
beginning, she was captivated by
the adventure, tranquility, and mental
and physical challenges that climbing
offered. Sarah found solace in the
intricate techniques, the immersive
nature of the activity that allowed her
to be fully present, and the pursuit
of mastery. Balancing her climbing
pursuits with a full-time career as a
musician, she gradually delved deeper
into the climbing world by working at
local gyms, coaching, and route setting.
Throughout her climbing career,
Sarah Hay has achieved numerous
milestones that reflect her dedication
and skill. While she believes that
every experience is a highlight,
certain achievements stand out.
Building Northern Rocks from the
ground up, coaching and witnessing
the development of young climbers,
and establishing the successful girls'
climbing program, "She Climbs", are
among her proudest accomplishments.
Sarah's success extends to national
and international competitions, winning
titles in lead and bouldering, and
representing New Zealand in World
Cup and Oceania events. Her passion
for climbing is further exemplified by
her involvement in route setting at
prestigious competitions.
We caught up with Sarah for a chat ...
How did you get into climbing?
A friend introduced me to outdoor
climbing when I was about 20 years
old. We went to the Mt Eden Quarry
and Froggatt (now Waipari) and I
never looked back! I was drawn to the
outdoor adventure and serenity, the
mental and physical challenge, problem
solving aspects, intricate techniques,
that when you’re climbing you’re not
thinking about anything else, and the
never-ending search for mastery.
Back then I was a full-time musician so
I was also being somewhat careful of
finger injuries but I kept climbing and
started working at one of the local gyms
part-time, coaching and route setting.
The kids started doing competitions so I
went to support them, and then started
trying out the competition scene myself.
Are you a risk taker? – is climbing
about risk? I think climbing
involves taking assessed risks, but
understanding your skills, limitations,
body, and preparedness can help
mitigate those risks. By continuously
improving and expanding your
repertoire of movements and
techniques, you can expand the range
of climbs you can safely undertake.
I feel like I understand my body and
skill set pretty well so I tend to take
risks where I know I can fall safely
if I miss, or can push the grade on
lead because I understand how to fall
safely above a clip. I am always trying
to get better at movements I’m not so
comfortable with so I can take more
assessed risks on different styles of
climbs.
Northern Rocks
Describe it to someone who has
not been…. Yet? Northern Rocks is
the perfect place for anyone to give
bouldering a try! Contrary to common
beliefs, you don't need to be strong to
start bouldering. Our indoor climbing
facility caters to beginners as well
as advanced climbers. Each boulder
Sarah climbing Gravity (24) Paynes Ford
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