The second round of the BMC/Climb Scotland Paraclimbing Series took place at the Castle Climbing Centre in London yesterday with over 50 paraclimbers taking part. BMC volunteer Elizabeth Holley gives us this report on the event.

The BMC continue to showcase that indoor climbing can be an inclusive sport by bringing together climbers from all over the country of different ages, genders and disability to compete in the BMC Para Climbing Series 2017. Now in its fifth year and with four rounds taking place in Edinburgh, London, Manchester and Newcastle the series allows those with visual impartments, deafness, mental health issues, physical disabilities and transgender climbers to compete alongside each other, on the same routes in a relaxed but competitive environment. This unique feature highlights how equality can be achieved within the sporting world.

Tuesday the 17th of October saw the second round of the series take place at the Castle Climbing Centre, London with over fifty para climbers undertaking a similar format of 3 routes and 3 boulders, with route 3 having two different options depending on the climber’s category. The climbs ranged in grade from grade 3 -7A and V1-5.

The boulder problems all set alongside the main slab required a variety of different climbing techniques and styles, challenging new participants and pushing the elite climbers. Problem one was a nice introduction with a straight climb up on a slight slab. The second problem was a right traverse across five volumes requiring precise foot placement, balance and commitment.  The third problem proved the greatest challenge, requiring both technical skill and mental toughness.

The routes again followed a similar pattern allowing those to challenge their weakness and also play to their strengths. With a strong presence from the current GB Para Climbing team and a number of new entrances the series continues to go from strength to strength. Huge thanks go to the Castle Climbing centre for hosting the event once again.

Results from yesterday round and the overall standings in the series so far can be seen here. 

We want to say a big thanks to every BMC member who continues to support us through the Coronavirus crisis.

From weekly Facebook Lives and GB Climbing home training videos, to our access team working to re-open the crags and fight for your mountain access, we couldn’t do it without you.

Did you know that we've launched a U27 membership offer for just £1.50 / month? And with full membership from £2.50 / month, it's never been easier to join and support our work: 

https://www.thebmc.co.uk/join-the-bmc-for-1-month-U27-membership

« Back