Talented young climber, Eleanor Judge, from our National Indoor Climbing Award Scheme (NICAS) and Development Squad has been selected to appear on Sky’s FYI news show for kids after submitting impressive footage of her climbing.
Eleanor began climbing at our YMCA Newark and Sherwood Community and Activity Village just a year and a half ago with no previous climbing experience and has already made remarkable progress.
When asked about what inspired her to start this new challenge, Eleanor stated,
“When the YMCA was being built, it was very exciting to people in Newark. So, me and my family went on a tour. When we went into the Clip ‘n Climb room overlooking the climbing centre, I was amazed. I had always wanted to climb, so the YMCA opened a huge opportunity for me to try it out. And as soon as I hopped on the wall, I knew that this climbing centre was going to be my second home.”
Built in 2022, the our climbing centre in Newark is a modern, purpose-built facility offering diverse features and programmes for all ages and abilities. It includes bouldering areas, a 15m main wall, and an IFSC Olympic-standard speed wall, all built to the highest European standards. Our centre also features Clip ‘n Climb, offering 15 exciting challenges designed for all ages and skill levels—making it the perfect place to begin your own climbing journey!
For the past year, Eleanor has been taking part in our NICAS sessions, a nationally recognised climbing programme for ages 8-18. Led by experienced YMCA coaches, these structured two-hour sessions guide young climbers through levels up to Level 5, helping them develop skills, confidence, and a passion for the sport.
As Eleanor’s confidence and skill set grew, she seized the opportunity to enter an exciting Sky competition, securing the chance to showcase her talent on their FYI News Show. Her submission, which featured an impressive video highlighting her climbing skills, caught the attention of the producers – leading to her victory and Sky’s visit to the Village to record her scenes.
When asked about what inspired Eleanor to sign herself up for the competition, she explained, “I have always wanted to be a news presenter / reporter, so my Grandad encouraged me to enter me into the competition. It also gave me a chance to talk about my passion for climbing, which is an activity I’d like to share with the world.”
Eleanor’s family are also regular visitors of our YMCA Newark community, making the Village a place where they can all come together. While Eleanor hones her climbing skills, her brothers engage in our Camp Williams school holiday day camps and youth football sessions, whilst her mum enjoys the welcoming atmosphere of our café, where she can relax and watch the action unfold.
Eleanor’s training routine starts with a warm-up to prevent muscle strain before tackling 30-45 minutes of bouldering. She then takes on the big walls for top rope and lead climbing, with short breaks between attempts, before wrapping up her session with more bouldering to refine her technique.
Eleanor’s coaches, Diana and Dan, are full of praise for her progress:
“It’s been incredible to see how much she’s achieved in such a short time. She’s a fast learner, and we’re so impressed by everything she’s accomplishing.”
Our YMCA team have played a key role in boosting Eleanor’s confidence. She shares,
“The YMCA community is so welcoming to beginners and incredibly supportive of those looking to join different classes. The staff are a big part of why I feel motivated to climb five hours a week.”
It’s incredible to see Eleanor accomplish so much at such a young age. What’s next for her—could we be seeing her at the 2028 LA Olympics?
We welcome climbers of all abilities, creating a supportive environment where everyone is encouraged to step out of their comfort zone and take on new challenges. Whether you’re a complete beginner or looking to refine your skills, the our community is here to help you grow, build confidence, and discover a passion for climbing, other sport or creative activity.
Our work is rooted in building developmental assets – the positive experiences and relationships all young people need to thrive – helping them feel connected, supported and part of something bigger You can learn more about YMCA’s developmental assets here: YMCA Developmental Assets Programme | YMCA Newark & Sherwood).
Has this inspired you to give climbing a try as your next hobby or sport?
Our NICAS taster sessions are held every school holiday, offering you—or someone you know—the chance to try something new and reach exciting milestones, just like Eleanor. Could you be next to climb to new heights?
Find out more today: https://ymcanewarksherwood.org/climbing