On February 26th, Margo Hayes successfully reappointed the route La Rambla in Siurana, Spain.  This ascent was historic in that it marked the first ascent by a woman of a confirmed 5.15a/9a+ route.  While TrainingBeta is not usually a climbing news website, it wasn’t that long ago that 5.15a was as hard as sport climbing got so we felt this Rock and Ice interview with Margo on her groundbreaking ascent was worth reposting.

“I knew that I was capable of climbing the route, but I was also aware that it wasn’t going to be easy. Although it is natural to experience some doubts, I tried my best to remain confident in my ability. Being positive increases the likelihood of success!” – Margo Hayes

In reading the interview, you will immediately be struck by Margo’s confidence, humility, and overall positive approach.  In the sport climbing game, where it is all to easy to fall into negative mental states when projecting, Margo’s emphasis on positivity is an important lesson we can all learn from.

Margo Hayes La Rambla Video:

The full interview is definitely worth a read and you can find it by clicking through below.  While we all won’t be flying to Spain to climb La Rambla ourselves, we can always learn from the outlook, process, and approach of climbers who are truly at the top of the game.

However, to give you an idea of the route and what went into Margo’s redpoint, here’s a short video from that highlights her ascent: