Elevation Place will host its first-ever climbing competition on Saturday (Jan. 11), attracting many of the top local and regional wall crawlers.
Members of the Canmore Indoor Climbing Society will highlight the competition in the morning, while recreational climbers will get their first shot to compete on the wall.
“It’s a great chance to see all the local climbers and regional climbers coming together to catch up,” said Elevation Place Climbing Gym supervisor Scott McKay. “It’s also a chance to christen Elevation Place with the first competition here and celebrate what we’ve accomplished.”
The meet will begin at 9:30 a.m. with the competitive category, where athletes will square off on 45 different bouldering routes – with one rated the easiest and 45 the hardest. The top eight male and female climbers will advance to the finals, which will take place at 7 p.m.
“In the finals, that’s where these athletes will be climbing their hardest. There will be a DJ to keep the energy high,” McKay said.
In the final rounds, climbers will have a time limit to finish their route. Based on the number of attempts, they’ll be given a score and attempt to advance to the final. The competition will wrap up around 10 p.m.
Climbers of all abilities will get their first shot at the wall at noon in the recreational category. McKay said it’s a chance for everyone to see what competition is all about and get to know the sport a little better.
Although there were concerns when it was first opened, McKay said Elevation Place is well suited for bouldering competitions.
“First off, there is lots of climbing terrain. We have great route setters and the openness and visibility should make it great for spectators,” McKay said.
Spectators can watch the finals and McKay encourages the public to check it out. There are a limited number of spaces left, so those competing should contact Elevation Place.
