“I don’t like losing or giving up.” - Pete Whittaker
Pete grew up in the Peak District just a stone’s throw away from Sheffield. Having the Gritstone edges on his doorstep for all his life, he has grasped the opportunity to embrace the outdoors, great landscapes and unique climbing on the Gritstone.
He has taken techniques learnt from his local climbing and has now applied them to great effect all over the world, most notably in the desert areas of Utah on huge roof cracks and the Big Walls of Yosemite in California.
Why / How did you start climbing?
Thanks to my family
Favorite climbing destination?
My favorite climbing spot is wherever my current projects take me. It’s not the location that matters most—it’s the challenge that keeps me hooked.
Memorable climbing achievement(s)?
Training for and climbing Century Crack and the first solo-free ascent of El Cap in under 24 hours stand out. But each achievement, no matter the size, is a milestone on my climbing journey.
In 3 words what describes climbing to you?
To me, climbing is summed up in three simple words: A Good Challenge. Every climb offers a unique test—of strength, strategy, and spirit.
How do you train?
My training revolves around my projects. If I’m not focused on a specific goal, I just climb for the joy of it, keeping myself ready for the next challenge.
You whip, you slip, you blow the move… What motivates you to try again:
I don’t like losing or giving up. Every fall pushes me to try harder.
What do you do when you’re not climbing?
When I’m not climbing, I spend time with friends, work, and enjoy a good game of table tennis. It keeps me balanced and ready for the next adventure.
