Oceana: Life's a Climb

Posted by Casey Phaisalakani on

This series is about everyday people making every day count. We caught up with freelance writer, and mega climbing enthusiast, Oceana. Based in Hong Kong, She gives us the low-down on her climbing experiences, and the importance of gearing up for the right moments.

 

 

How'd you get into climbing?

A friend of mine asked if I’d ever tried a bouldering gym before. it was new for us both, and my body hurt all over for a full week after my first session! 3 years and 5 countries later, I still need my climbing fix every week.


Sounds like a fun addiction. Have you climbed every route in Hong Kong then?

Oh man, I am NOWHERE near climbing most hong kong routes. there’s easily gotta be at least a thousand climbs here, spread across some 60 crags scattered luxuriously across hong kong. even working one route could take a couple weeks, if it’s near the limit of my abilities. Hong Kong climbing... defies expectation. you really gotta see the crags to know what I mean!


What about just casual hikes?

I’ve not done that much exploring of local hiking trails yet, but I did greatly enjoy the silence of Tai Mo Shan.

How would you pack out for a day's climb? 

I usually split gear responsibility with my partner - if he brings the rope then I bring the quick-draws clips, and vice versa. then comes my harness, helmet and headlight if it’s at night. 

Aside from that, I do pack civilian items as well 😂 portable charger, tissues, water, headphones and snacks. sometimes my pen and notebook too, if I’m feeling introspective. 


What do you look for in a climbing bag?

It’s essential that I can easily dust off my bag, so the fabric is pretty critical. also, loops so I can hang assorted gear outside my bag. there can never be enough gear loops. I can always find something more to clip. try me. I've been using the Daybreaker, and although it's not designed for climbing per se, its so light so it works for me. Love all the hook points!

 

How often are you getting out there?

I used to climb anywhere between 2-5 times weekly as a freelancer, but now that I work in an office, I’ve only got the weekends to get outdoors. I’ll hit a climbing gym if I’m feeling a weeknight itch.

What's your top 3 essentials (climbing day or not)?

Notebook and pen.

Water.

Portable charger.


What's your favorite spot to unwind from a day of climbing / work?

I never need to unwind from climbing! when it comes to unwinding for work, I’ll go for a walk/jog somewhere in nature, then get a nice dinner back in my neighbourhood.


Any tips for new climbers ease into their climbs better?

Moisturise your hands at least twice a day, focus on footwork, and never tell yourself you can’t do something!

 

 

Oceana Hangs with the Daybreaker.

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