Organizer: Jim Waugh

Sport Climbing evolved from a long history of rock climbing. As early as the 18th century, men were scaling sheer rock faces in attempts to summit mountains. By the early 1900's ropes, carabineers, and other climbing tools were incorporated along with the descending technique of "rappelling". In the past decade, rock climbing has surged in popularity due to the creation of urban climbing gyms. Indoor climbing facilities, with planned routes set for the beginner to expert climber with safety ropes pre installed have aided the sports participation.

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Speed Climbing
This year, 16 of the top male and female climbers from around the world will compete in a one on one competition. Eight climbers are seeded according to how long it took each one to climb to the top of the wall. From there they will face each other in a head to head speed competition. The climber who slaps the buzzer at the top of the wall first, will continue to the next round. Look for the return of agile veteran Euros and young American power.

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