Climbing Rocks will take place this Saturday
Young climbers have the chance to show their mettle at Britain’s first climbing festival aimed at youngsters.
Climbing Rocks will take place this Saturday at the Edinburgh Indoor Climbing Arena at Ratho. In addition to skills workshops and family activities, there will be ‘try climbing’ sessions.
Among the star attractions will be world junior number three Natalie Berry who will run a coaching class for girls who have just started climbing. Also at the event will be British team members Jaime Davidson, Ross Kirkland and Jonathan Field to offer coaching advice for beginners.
Competitions for more accomplished climbers will also be held, along with advice for more advanced climbers from Suzan Dudink, Andy Earl and Neil McGeachy.
Climbing Rocks is a joint venture between the Mountaineering Council of Scotland and the Quickdraw Climbing Club.
Kevin Howett, MCofS mountaineering development officer, who will be presenting a lecture on climbing outdoors said: “The Climbing Rocks festival is the first of its kind in the UK – a festival to celebrate climbing aimed at kids.
“As a result it not only has some of the best adult climbers offering lecturing and coaching sessions, but some of Scotland’s best young climbers themselves helping to coach and inspire other children to get involved.
Mr Howett urged parents to bring along children who may be interested. He said many activities on the day are free.
Mark Tennant from the Quickdraw Club said: “The Quickdraw Climbing Club was founded on a premise of the advancement of Scottish Youth Climbing and what better way to go about it than being involved in an event like this. It’s the perfect vehicle to showcase the sport we love so much. Please come along and support the event, try some climbing and let us show you why Climbing Rocks!”
Pre-booking for the event is advised, with many of the activities offered on a first-come basis. Details of the 10 October festival are on the MCofS website or can be had by ringing the council’s office on 01738 493942.
