The only way is up for Zhao

"I had good grades," he admitted. "But, sunlight on the wall felt brighter than any classroom."

With support from his parents, in September 2023, Zhao relocated to Shanghai to undertake a semiprofessional regimen: mornings studying mathematics and afternoons defying physics.

The 2023-24 winter camp saw his times plummet from 5.4s to 4.99s, breaking speed climbing's hallowed "sub-five" barrier — a feat likened to the 10-second milestone in the 100 m sprint.

"I'm someone who loves climbing with strong competitors. I thrive on competition," Zhao said of his racing ethos.