"I can't climb very seriously now but I was a bit of a freak"

This quote by Robin Day is a reflection on his past climbing up abilities. He is stating that although he is not able to climb up as seriously as he utilized to, he was when a very experienced climber. This could suggest that he had the ability to climb up hard paths or that he was able to climb for long periods of time without burning out. It could also indicate that he had the ability to climb up with a good deal of speed and dexterity. The expression "a little a freak" could be analyzed as a compliment to his previous climbing up capabilities, as it implies that he had the ability to do something that was extraordinary or out of the ordinary. It could likewise be analyzed as a joke, as it suggests that he was a bit of an oddball or an outlier. Regardless of the analysis, it is clear that Robin Day was when a very competent climber.