Sheffield climbing enthusiasts will be able to compete alongside their climbing heroes next week, as The Rab Climbing Works International Festival (CWIF) returns next weekend from March 18–19.
The internationally renowned competition, based in Sheffield, is one of the only competitions in sport which allows members of the public to compete against professionals.
Managing Director, Sam Whittaker, who helped create the festival said: “When we opened the Climbing Works back in 2006, we wanted to give back something to the community here in Sheffield.
“So, we used the contacts we’d made from over 30 years of climbing experience, to invite international athletes from all over the world.
“Since then, athletes have travelled from everywhere – Australia, Korea, Ukraine, Russia, Israel, Canada and Korea just to name a few.”
The CWIF has previously seen several Olympians compete, including team GB climber Shauna Coxsey who won the women’s competition five years in a row.
The German Olympic powerhouse, Alex Megos, has also competed several times, coming fourth last year.
Sam added: “Professional climbers from around the world love the vibe of Sheffield and all the good things it has going for it.
“The athletes look forward to coming to Sheffield, going out to the peak district, and just being consumed in the whole Sheffield scene.”
The Saturday qualification rounds allows the public to compete against the elite, with the aim of qualifying for the finals on Sunday where the male and female winner take home £2000.
The evening climbing session on Saturday is less serious, with climbers dressing up in fancy dress for a party atmosphere.
“The competition is not just about the big names, it’s about the regular customers getting in fancy dress and having a good time.
“It’s unique in the sense it caters for whatever vibe people are looking for.
“People love it because it’s a chance for local customers to climb amongst some of the best climbers in the world on the same wall– and get inspired by them.
“We run the festival to give back to our community because it turns this climbing wall they use every week, into a special historical place.”
Entry to the competition is just £15, and the 150 spectator tickets for the Sunday evening final sold out within an hour of being released.
Climbing works’ Centre Manager, Sarah Moran, said: “All our sponsors have their own stalls, where you can get lots of discounted gear, to help you save some money.
“It’s a really great atmosphere, everyone’s in a happy mood and there’s lots of amazing food available from local venders.”