Abu Dhabi: Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi recently made history as it hosted the Open Bouldering Championships 2023, the largest climbing competition in the Middle East. Over the course of two exhilarating days, the event brought together 160 climbers from 40 countries, representing a substantial increase in regional participation and showcasing the growing popularity of the sport.
The Championships received sponsorship from esteemed organizations including the Abu Dhabi Sports Council, The North Face, ADISL, Traks Pro, Two Pandas, and Nirvana. Additionally, the event received valuable support from the Saudi Climbing and Hiking Federation, which played a pivotal role in securing the International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC)-certified judges for the championships.
The competition featured eight categories, each with its own set of winners in both the men’s and women’s open categories, Male and Female MENA Nationals, Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi’s students and staff, the Youth category (15-17 years old), and the Kids and Veterans categories. From the qualifiers to the semi-finals and ultimately the finals, every stage of the competition offered a captivating game for participants, athletes, and spectators alike. The diverse range of competitors spanned different levels of expertise and age groups, showcasing the breadth of talent within the climbing community.
As the finals arrived, the pressure mounted, pushing competitors to utilize every ounce of strength, skill, and strategic thinking to secure the best scores. Each climber faced triumphs and challenges along the way, but their unwavering determination and unwavering pride shone through. They pushed themselves to their limits, scaling the walls with tenacity and demonstrating the incredible spirit of the sport.
Mr. Alexandre Blaise, Head of the Sports Department, at Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, stated that, “This event is a testament to our commitment to creating an environment that encourages physical fitness and the spirit of competition. We are dedicated to offering our students the best sports programmes and facilities to ensure they are able to unlock their full potential.”
The success of the Open Bouldering Championships 2023 not only showcased the growing popularity of climbing but also elevated the regional climbing scene. Sorbonne University Abu Dhabi, through its hosting of the event, contributed significantly to the development of the sport and fostered a sense of community among climbers in the Middle East.
The organizers, sponsors, and supporters of the event are lauded for their efforts in making the Open Bouldering Championships 2023 a resounding success. The event not only provided a platform for athletes to compete at the highest level but also served as a catalyst for promoting climbing as an inclusive and exhilarating sport in the region.