ABOUT US
Welcome to Onyx Climbing - Where Climbing Becomes a Lifestyle!
"Hiya, we're Gill and Ian, a climbing couple from Lancashire and the brains behind Onyx Climbing—where Climbing Becomes a Lifestyle!
As lifelong climbers, we’ve had a passion to create something special, a place dedicated to bouldering where the climbing is designed to make you stronger and a community that turns you into a life-long climber.
With years of climbing under our belts, both on the rock and the competition scene, we’re here to share our passion and expertise in our specialised areas of route setting and coaching, and our collective experience in owning and managing climbing walls.
Our journey in coaching and route-setting, moulded by years of graft, has brought us here. We had this vision, to do something unique, more niche that set us apart from other centres and not just follow the crowd. Our routes are like no other; they capture that outdoor climbing vibe you can't resist and a style you want to train on. And our space, well, it's cozy and inviting, just like a proper cuppa!
Our mission is simple: offer a climbing wall where the climbs and the feeling of achievement are top-notch. We just want folk to swing by, take on a challenge, and leave with a grin, whether they've conquered a climb they never thought they could or had a breather from life's hustle and bustle.
Now, you might wonder about the name Onyx. Gill's got a thing for crystals, and as we dug into the meaning of Onyx, it clicked. It sums up our climbing community to a tee. A black gemstone symbolizing strength, grit, and resilience—qualities that drive the climbing world and our mission for you to ‘Feel Good Climbing!"
CLIMBERS BEHIND IT ALL
Manager & Head Coach
Gill Peet
Gill brings over 30 years of climbing experience to Onyx Climbing. She proudly represented the GB climbing team from 2009 to 2013, achieving her best World Cup result of 17th. Gill's climbing journey led her to focus on outdoor climbing, with one her most accomplished ascents was the awe-inspiring Traverse of the Gods 8b+ at Longridge.
Gill's dedication to climbing extended to her academic pursuits, as she studied sports coaching at university. Her commitment to coaching young climbers led her to successfully set up two junior climbing academies, supporting nine young talents to reach GB level.
Before co-owning Onyx Climbing, Gill dedicated most of her professional life to working in other climbing centres within Lancashire where she has become a familiar face on the climbing scene. As well as this, Gill worked for Preston City Sport’s Development Team which instilled core values for the progression of the sport and her passion for creating pathways and opportunities for all which she continues to drive at Onyx Climbing.
Gill's primary mission at Onyx is to deliver an exceptional climbing experience and create a centre of excellence for junior climbing development. She also takes responsibility for making the place look as inviting as it feels. If you ever find something not to your liking, don't hesitate to let her know – she's dedicated to making Onyx your second home!
Climbing Legend & Head Setter
Ian Vickers
Ian is a true legend in the UK climbing scene with an extensive list of personal climbing achievements. Although modest by nature, Ian's accomplishments are nothing short of extraordinary. He's most renowned for his outdoor climbing abilities, particularly his onsighting prowess. Ian has onsighted numerous 8a+ routes and E7's on trad climbs. One of his most remarkable feats was redpointing True North 8c at Kilnsey in less than an hour, a testament to his unparalleled skill and determination.
As well as this, Ian is one of the most accomplished UK competition climbers and holds the distinction of being the first athlete to become European Champion in 1998 as well as claiming the British Champion title on multiple years and winner of the X-Games.
Beyond his personal climbing prowess, Ian is renowned as one of the country's foremost route setters, with a reputation that sets him apart from the crowd. He has even served as a former international route setter. At Onyx, Ian takes the helm for route setting, applying his deep understanding of what makes for quality climbing. You'll often find him hanging out at Onyx, helping climbers with their routes and showing that age is no match for his climbing prowess. At Onyx Climbing, you'll not only experience climbing excellence but also have the chance to climb with one of the true legends of the sport.
ADDRESS
Unit 11-12 Harwood Street
Blackburn
Lancashire
BB1 3BD
PHONE
01254 916777
