Rock climbers are enthusiastic about their sport, and it gives them different options as to how they want to enjoy it. Some just enjoy it as a hobby and look forward to spending time with other climbers. Then, there is another group who want to be competitive in this sport. There are undoubtedly plenty of opportunities for them to be able to do this.
What are Climbing Competitions?
These types of competitions are the ones which are enjoyed by those who enjoy indoor rock climbing. As indoor climbing grew in popularity, it soon created an excellent atmosphere for competition among the climbers.
Types of Competitons
Many of the rock climbing clubs and gyms will run competitions, but there are three types which are the most common:
- Lead Climbing
Lead climbing is the technique which is used to climb the path the climber is attempting. There are a series of manoeuvres and skills that are needed to accomplish this. This is where the competitive part of lead climbing comes in. The climbers will have a set time in which they must do their climb. At the same time, they have to be sure that the placement of quickdraws is done.
- Speed Climbing
Here, as the name implies, style is not the priority, but speed is. Some of the competitions are done with single athletes competing against each other, and there are team events as well.
- Bouldering
There is more of a tactical component to bouldering competitions. Competitors have to problem solve during their short climbs, and there is no rope to rely on.
The Competitions
These rock climbing competitions are serious, in that they are well organised and have become known worldwide. Some of the common ones which draw a lot of attention are:
- Melloblocco
- Sport Climbing World Games
- The European Championships
- Climbing World Cup
- The Climbing World Championship
The Olympics
When a sport qualifies for the Olympics, it means it has reached its ultimate status in the competitive world. As of 2016, climbing did just that. The three main competitions were the mandate for the Olympics.
Importance to the Sport
Competitions are not just important to the participants. These are public events which have begun to draw attention to the sport. When fans become involved, then businesses do as well. This now starts to boost the economy. It is also a way for finances to be incorporated into sports. Competitions can be expensive, and athletes need financial backing, which often comes by using a sponsor. The better an athlete does at rock climbing event, the more sponsorship attention will be generated.
They also work as an incentive for young and upcoming athletes, which is needed to keep the sport alive.
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