Sports
Oval hosting climbing competition
Published 12:02 PST, Fri January 20, 2023
Last Updated: 4:41 PST, Wed February 22, 2023
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Climbing Escalade Canada is hosting the Boulder High Performance (HP) Climbing Competition at the Richmond Olympic Oval on Jan. 28 and 29.
Competitors are from B.C., Alberta, Ontario, and Quebec. Climbing begins on Jan. 28 at 8:30 a.m. following the International Federation of Sport Climbing isolation qualifying format. Spectators can watch the competition for free, but there is limited seating.
High performance competitions are regarded by Climbing Escalade Canada as a key component of its program. The main goal of the program is to improve the results of Canadian athletes competing at the World Cup, World Championships, and Olympic Games.
For athletes aspiring to reach the Olympics, other competitions provide an opportunity to work on technique, strength, and skills. Coaches and officials can also support competitors in their journey to reach the Olympics, building long-lasting connections.
“It is very rewarding. Supporting athletes through the ups and downs of their Olympic journey builds special connections that last long after their journey is over,” says Andrew Wilson, high performance director and national coach at Climbing Escalade Canada.
The competitions have three primary objectives: to present a competition environment that represents the level of international competitions; to provide a domestic opportunity to earn continuous national ranking points; and to provide an opportunity for athlete and staff development.
Athletes attending the Boulder HP Climbing Competition must pay a fee of $150 and can register online at member.climbingcanada.ca. Over the two days, all athletes will compete in nine different bouldering courses. Their cumulative scores will be added up throughout the event.
“The winner will have the best scores across all nine boulders over the two days. (The) best score is awarded to the athlete who gets to the top of the most boulders in the fewest attempts,” says Wilson.
To be eligible for the event, athletes must be eligible to participate in the senior category, hold a valid Climbing Escalade Canada competition license, participate in fitness assessments, and follow plans outlined by the High Performance Program coaching team.
For more information, visit climbingcanada.ca.