PROFESSIONAL CLIMBER

TOM O’HALLORAN

BLACKHEATH, NEW SOUTH WALES

How long have you been competing?


Since I was 12 years old!.


Where do you call home?


I grew up in Brisbane. But in 2011 I drove 1000km south to the Blue Mountains. I am now very psyched to call Blackheath home with my partner and daughter.


Favorite event or place to practice?


In Australia my favourite cliffs would be Elphinstone and Taipan. Overseas, Ceuse in France!


What is your focus within your sport (what sub-discipline of your sport do you do most)? Why do you like that aspect the most?


I love every aspect of our climbing, but I spend the majority of my time sport climbing and boulder. I love that they both allow you to focus on just climbing. No mucking around with fiddly gear or alpine logistics! Plus you get to share the amazing experiences with awesome people.


What is the strangest thing that has happened to you while doing your sport?


Haha hmmm I’m not sure. I’m sure there’s been some weird things happen.


Do you have a local claim to fame (fittest, fastest, funniest, smelliest, etc.)?


I don't think there is anything else too exciting in my life. I do have a long tongue, sometimes it helps while climbing.


Any notable recent results?


I was very psyched to climb The Wheel of Life in the Grampians in 2017. It is a very iconic piece of climbing and a world-class line. It was a dream for 10 years to one day climb it. I still can’t believe I have! I am also stoked to have won the Australian Bouldering Nationals in 2017 when I don’t consider myself to be much of a competition climber. Also in 2016 I climbed the first ascents of Baker’s Dozen and Kitten Mittens. Both graded 35, making my the first Australian to climb this grade.