A nine-year-old has scaled more than 700 mountains including 10 of Europe’s highest peaks.
Frankie McMillan took up climbing at just three years old.
The schoolboy conquered three European giants this summer.
READ MORE: James Bond fans can snap up 007-style mini helicopter but there is a bit of a catch
- Advertisement -
They are Gerlach in Slovakia (2,655m), Rysy in Poland (2,499m) and Sněžka in the Czech Republic (1,603m).
Frankie tackled 15 summits – 11 of them over 2,000 metres – over three weeks along with his mum Basia.
For Basia, who grew up in Poland, the trip was extra special as it fulfilled her dream of climbing in the Tatra Mountains.
“When we were sitting at the top I said to Frankie, ‘I can’t believe I’m here – and with you, and you’re only nine’,”” Basia told What’s the Jam.
“It was always something I thought only experienced climbers could do, but here we are,
- Advertisement -
“If anything, he’s more confident than me now.
“He started climbing at three and has spent most of his life on mountains.”
The pair faced some of their most technical challenges to date, including Mnich, a 2,068m peak only accessible by scaling a vertical rock tower with ropes and helmets.
- Advertisement -
It took them 12 hours to climb and descend Rysy.
Their highest ascent, Gerlach, is so forbidding that Slovakian guards patrol the trailhead to ensure only climbers with permits and guides attempt it.
Basia – who lives with her son in Gosforth, Cumbria, said: “It was the most technical we’ve ever done – but Frankie loved it.”
Despite long days, early starts and even the risk of bears, the duo are already planning next summer’s adventures.
Frankie, who has recently achieved Level 3 in the National Indoor Climbing Award Scheme, has also signed with Athlete Media Group.
He is the only child on their roster and has been chosen to represent the UN’s good health and wellbeing goal, encouraging others to embrace the outdoors and stay active.
Basia said: “This will open so many opportunities for him – and it will also promote Cumbria on the national stage.”
Earlier this year, Frankie made headlines after becoming the youngest climber ever to complete all 214 Wainwrights twice – a gruelling challenge that many adults spend their lifetime attempting.
He is already embarking on a third round, with an ambitious goal of reaching them all 100 times.
The pair are also preparing a huge charity climb for next summer and are looking for a sponsor to help them make it happen. Anyone interested can get in touch directly via @FrankieMovesTheMountains.
READ MORE: TV presenter shocked as COWS trespass into garden – and she has to firmly ‘tell them off’
