The climbing competition was divided into Men's Beginner, Women's Beginner, and Men's Pro categories. Each category employed an open format and lead climbing style, with each participant having just one chance to climb each route.
On the day of the event, light rain fell in Beijing as autumn had already set in, but competitors still arrived early at the venue and began their warm-up exercises, preparing thoroughly for the upcoming competition.
The North Face? Rock ClimbingCompetition――Women’s Category
The Women’s category competition started first. The routes in the women’s category appeared more winding. The hold placements were specially designed to take into account balance, the unique flexibility and coordination of female athletes, thereby enhancing the visual appeal of the event. All the women’s competitors completed their climbs, showcasing their unique wall moves and interpretations of the routes, delivering a series of captivating “rock wall ballets.”
Agile figures of the Women’s category competitors
Women’s category competitors demonstrate flexibility
The North Face? Rock Climbing Competition – Men’s Category
The Men’s Pro category routes were set on the most challenging overhanging wall at the Aolei Climbing Gym, graded at 5.12A. During the competition, the calmness with which the athletes tackled difficult sections and their understanding of the routes truly earned the admiration of the spectators below, drawing continuous cheers and applause.
The Beginner category had the largest number of participants among all groups, making the competition relatively intense. As many as six beginners completed the climb, with the newbies’ champion finishing in just 52 seconds.
Men’s Beginner category in action
Women’s category winners