thats so true, i started climbing when i was 5, now i'm 17, my dad taught me very well from the beggining taking it very slowly. i started just placing gear at the bottom of the cliff and he'd check it, and only led anything i was comfortable on with him next to me at first, and on climbs he knew could be protected easily, its a very slow process building up confidence, but it all makes it worthwhile. you have to take it easy and consolidate leading say grade 16, before moving onto grade 17/18's |