On Friday 27 May, 80 Year 10 girls from different secondary schools across the Sheffield area were invited to The Climbing Works to trying climbing for the first time.

The project aimed to introduce the girls to climbing, many of whom had never climbed before. The morning included short videos from BMCTV, highlighting different reasons they might like climbing, whether that be physical fitness, social and community or lifestyle and travel opportunities.  The girls were particularly motivated by ‘Mina meets Godzilla’ a short film where Mina shows what it’s like to try hard and give something your all.

WATCH: Mina meets Godzilla on BMC TV

The films were followed by a talk from 18 year old climber Gracie Martin who gave a short presentation on what climbing means to her. At their age Gracie was already travelling to climbing destinations throughout Europe with her friends and meeting other climbers from around the world. She spoke a lot about how welcoming the climbing community is and the many opportunities that she has had because of climbing. ‘Climbing is what I wake up thinking about and go to sleep dreaming about. If I can inspire just one of the girls to take up climbing then that would be amazing. It's so cool to see how the sport is growing and I really hope I can contribute to that’ Gracie Martin.

WATCH: Sheffield Schools Bouldering Comeptition 2016 on BMC TV

Feeling truly inspired and ready to give climbing a go the girls were split into groups and assigned a climbing coach. ‘I was introduced to climbing on the wall at school so had a little idea about what it was about. When I got to the Climbing Works I couldn't believe the size of it, I had no idea Sheffield had such places. I loved every minute of it, the talks we had from climbers really inspired me to go for it. I hope to go back in the summer holidays.’ Rosie, Bradfield School

The day ended with thank yous and giveaways kindly provided by Core Climbing. With the participants now excited by climbing the Climbing Works ensured every participant became a junior member, allowing them to return as independent climbers either by themselves, or with new friends they had made. 'It was amazing and very inspirational, I would love to do it again!' Chantelle, Firth Park Academy.

WATCH: The Benefits of climbing walls at schools on BMC TV

Emma Flaherty from Links School Sport Partnership said 'The girls' climbing day was great fun. It was brilliant to see so many teenage girls get stuck in and loving having a go at something new. We hope that now the girls have their Climbing Works junior membership they will be returning on a regular basis.' 

The partnership working at this event was a key to its success, The girls' climbing day was in association with Links School Sports Partnership, The Climbing Works, BMC and PESOL (PE, swimming and outdoor learning) team. 

If you’re interested in holding a girls' climbing day and want to find out more, get in touch with the BMC who can help you.

James McHaffie, youth & partnerships officer james@thebmc.co.uk

Jo Rowbottom, equity & partnerships officer joanna@thebmc.co.uk

The BMC TV Women in Adventure Film Competition is back and accepting submissions for 2022. So dive in, if you have a story to tell or a cause to share it's time to do so!

We want to see your adventures captured on film and keep the cycle of inspiration rolling as we head into the eighth year of the competition, supported by Montane.

WATCH: All the entries to the Women in Adventure Film Competition 2021 on BMC TV

FIND OUT MORE AND ENTER: Submit an entry

WATCH: Women in Adventure Film Competition 2022 Trailer on BMC TV

Need inspiration?

WATCH: All the 2021 winners and entries

WATCH: All the 2020 winners and entries

WATCH: All the 2019 winners and entries

WATCH: All the 2018 winners and entries

WATCH: All the 2017 winners and entries

WATCH: All the 2016 winners and entries

WATCH: All the 2015 winners and entries

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