“The Only Difference Is I Am Missing a Limb”: A Birth Defect Didn’t Stop Rock Climbing Sensation Create History in 2016

Published 01/17/2023, 7:30 PM EST

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Climbing up huge rocks while clinging to a comparatively thin and dangly instrument would undoubtedly pose as a nightmare to many. However, there are several pioneers of the sport who might make us feel otherwise. 

One similar pioneer, Sianagh Gallagher is a specially abled British rock climber who has been taking over the world with her inspirational adventure of getting introduced to the extreme sport, per New York Post. Let’s discover more about the young athlete. 

Sianagh Gallagher starts from the rock bottom

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According to a 2016 article by The New York Post, the then 19-year-old climber opened up about her exceptional feat to practice rock climbing. She revealed, “I’ve come to realize that I’m the same as everyone else — the only difference is I am missing a limb.”  Initially, she was the only climber in the entire continent. Ironically, she struggled with her shoelaces and at times, while peeling eggs but effortlessly clinched onto a rock wall.

Reportedly, the athlete was born with a congenital anomaly around her upper body. However, it never functioned as a reason for not getting involved in the world of sports. “Growing up with my disability never really held me back from doing anything. If anything, I was more determined to get things done and prove myself to people.”, Gallagher confessed.

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The British climber tagged along with the British squad at just 16 years old and went on to be the captain of her nation’s pro team. Her physical limitations involved the absence of an arm and a collarbone. Despite that, she had her eyes set on something greater.

“But I Wouldn’t Be Able to Remain Sane”: Rock Climbing Sensation Detailed His Long Term Plan to Alex Honnold in 2020

Gallagher aimed for the 2020 Tokyo Paralympics.

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Setting about on her journey of climbing, Gallagher never looked back after that. She had already traveled through a major part of the world with her team. Highlighting her love for the sport , she said “It was the first time I’d been really good at a sport… with climbing, I just kind of decided to go for it.” As per reports, her training routine involved five days a week with her goals set for the 2020 Paralympics in Tokyo.It’s hard to think about it because I just get so excited at the possibility even,” she disclosed.

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Sianagh Gallagher, now 25 is still on her journey to the top of a rock. The sheer dedication and passion that requires to pull off such an achievement, is simply extraordinary. Moreover, her progress is a source of inspiration for many. Let us know what you thought in the comments. 

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Written by:

Tiyasa Biswas

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Edited by:

Anupama Ghosh