Rock climbing is an artform, a moving meditation and a dance on the rock. For Paul Thomson, it is also humbling every time he tackles a climb. “Frothy” – as he is affectionately known in climbing circles – is a well renowned rock climber and new route setter in the Blue Mountains. Immersing himself into the sport, rock climbing has also been an escape for Paul. It has provided solace during times of adversity in his life. A longstanding neurological eye condition – which deteriorated last year - reduced Paul’s eyesight and his ability to focus.
“My eyes don’t focus properly anymore…over the years it has got worse. It’s only now it’s got so much worse that it impairs aspects of my day-to-day life”, Paul said.
“Despite knowing this is permanent – it’s amazing how much I forget about it. That it’s not this dark cloud hanging over my head…because I’m out there climbing with my mates in these amazing locations.”
The commitment to the sport runs deep for Paul and his connections are far and wide. Having given so much time and passion to the local rock-climbing community, it was no surprise that in a time of need Paul was met with an outpouring of support. He credits his shift in perspective and resilience to those within the climbing fraternity.
“Before I developed my current eye condition, I would have said that I could not live without climbing”, Paul said.
“But now I realise that it wasn’t the climbing itself that was integral to my life, but the climbing community. With the right prompting from all the people around me I was able to get climbing again.”
Responsible for developing new routes around the Blue Mountains, Paul has a reputation for the iconic and infamous climbs. The rock face is a blank canvas for Paul, which he describes as “art meets engineering”. The routes are unique to Paul and a reflection of his personality. He wants to challenge climbers and to elicit strong emotions from those who choose to tackle his work.
“My philosophy is, when I finish with a route – equipping it, climbing it, tidying up the climbing area – it should be the best that I can possibly make it. I want to walk away knowing that the art is properly complete”, Paul said.
“It is a stunning feeling to have people repeat your climbs, especially the harder ones or the less visited ones. Maybe they’ve had a great experience, maybe they don’t. Either way they have had an experience.”
Instagram: @passionperspectivepodcast
Music: “Friendship” by Annie Burbank
