Prominent Climbers Compete for Control in Para Climbing Qualifications in Laval

Elite Para Climbers Compete in Dramatic World Cup Season Finale

Laval, France – The final IFSC Para Climbing World Cup of the 2025 season commenced today at the Espace Mayenne, with athletes delivering exceptional performances and securing leading positions in their respective divisions. Climbers are now poised to compete in the final rounds, promising a thrilling conclusion to the series.

New Talents and Established Champions Shine in Visually impaired Categories

Competition in the visually impaired categories featured a compelling blend of seasoned veterans and rising stars. Daniel Morante Clemente of Spain displayed a stellar international debut in the men’s Lead B2 event, successfully completing both routes and claiming the top qualifying spot. In the men’s B1 category, Aita Sho, representing Japan, also achieved two successful ascents to lead his division heading into the finals.

Italy’s Nadia Bredice solidified her position as a dominant force in the women’s B1 category, topping both qualification routes. Having remained undefeated throughout the 2025 World Cup season, Bredice aims to cap off an impressive year with a gold medal in laval. Para climbing continues to grow in popularity, with a reported 30% increase in participation globally since the Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games.

French Athletes Excel in Amputee Disciplines

French athletes demonstrated exceptional skill in the AL and AU events. Thierry Delarue and Lucie Jarrige of France once again dominated the AL2 fields, both qualifying for the finals in first place. Angelino Zeller of Austria showcased impressive climbing ability in the AL1 division, securing the top qualifying position.

The absence of Solenne Piret of France in the women’s AU2 category created an opportunity for lucia Capovilla of Italy, a three-time World Cup gold medalist, to lead the qualification round and pursue her fourth victory of the year.

World Champions Maintain Momentum in RP Classes

The RP classes were defined by consistent excellence from top performers. aloïs Pottier of France distinguished himself in the men’s RP1 category, topping both routes to qualify in first place. Takashi Tadano of Japan mirrored this success in men’s RP3, maintaining his strong season form.

In the women’s competitions, Jasmin Plank of Austria overcame a recent finger injury to lead the women’s RP2 standings.World champions Melissa Ruiz of the United States and Marina Dias of Brazil similarly lead the RP1 and RP3 categories, respectively, demonstrating the form that secured their gold medals at the IFSC Para Climbing World Championships Seoul 2025.

Category	Top Qualifier – Men	Top Qualifier – Women
B1	Aita Sho (JPN)	Nadia Bredice (ITA)
B2	Daniel Morante Clemente (ESP)	N/A
AL1	Angelino Zeller (AUT)	N/A
AL2	Thierry Delarue (FRA)	Lucie Jarrige (FRA)
RP1	aloïs Pottier (FRA)	Jasmin Plank (AUT)
RP3	Takashi Tadano (JPN)	Marina Dias (BRA)

Did You Know? Para climbing is gaining recognition for its inclusivity and the incredible athleticism of its participants, and is poised to become a regular event at the Paralympic Games.

Upcoming Finals Schedule

The first set of finals is scheduled to begin tonight at 20:00 (UTC+2:00), featuring seven sport classes: women’s Lead AU2, AU3, RP2, and RP3; and men’s Lead AL2, AU3, and RP3. The events will be live streamed on the IFSC YouTube channel.

Pro Tip: Follow the IFSC website and social media channels for live updates, results, and athlete interviews throughout the finals.

The Growth of Para Climbing

The sport of Para climbing has experienced significant growth in recent years, driven by increased accessibility and awareness. As more countries invest in Para climbing programs, the level of competition continues to rise. The IFSC has introduced new classifications and refined rules to enhance fairness and inclusivity,ensuring that athletes of all abilities have the opportunity to compete at the highest level. The expansion of Para climbing is part of a broader trend towards greater inclusivity in sports globally, mirroring the growing demand for more accessible and representative athletic opportunities.

What did you think of these results? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

What impact do the Laval qualification results have on athletes’ opportunities to compete in the 2026 Para Climbing World Championships adn the 2028 Paralympic Games?

The Laval Qualification Event: A Hub for Para Climbing Excellence

The city of Laval,Quebec,is currently hosting a crucial stage in the para climbing world: the qualification rounds for major international competitions. This event, running through October 25th, 2025, showcases some of the moast talented adaptive climbers globally, all vying for a coveted spot on their respective national teams. The competition focuses on the three para climbing disciplines: lead, speed, and boulder. This year’s Laval qualifiers are especially significant as they directly impact participation in the upcoming 2026 Para Climbing World Championships and, ultimately, the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.

Disciplines in Focus: lead, Speed, and Boulder

Each discipline demands a unique skillset and presents distinct challenges for para athletes. Understanding these differences is key to appreciating the complexity of para climbing competitions.

* Lead Climbing: Athletes attempt to ascend a tall wall with a series of pre-placed holds. The goal is to climb as high as possible within a time limit, relying on strength, technique, and route-reading abilities. This discipline frequently enough tests endurance and mental fortitude.

* Speed Climbing: A head-to-head race against the clock, speed climbing requires explosive power and precise movements. Climbers race up a standardized 15-meter wall, aiming for the fastest time.

* Boulder Climbing: Athletes tackle short, challenging “problems” (routes) on low walls without ropes, relying on powerful dynamic movements and precise footwork. Para bouldering often emphasizes creative problem-solving and body positioning.

Key Athletes to Watch in Laval

Several climbers have already emerged as frontrunners during the Laval qualifications. These athletes represent a diverse range of classifications and climbing styles.

* Ivan Rybkin (Russia – RP2): A consistent performer in lead climbing, Rybkin is known for his powerful and efficient technique. He’s a strong contender for a top spot.

* Hayley Barton (USA – AU2): Barton is a force in both boulder and lead, demonstrating unbelievable adaptability and strength.Her performance in Laval is crucial for securing her place on the US Paralympic team.

* Solenne Piret (Belgium – RW1): Piret excels in speed climbing,consistently breaking personal bests and challenging the existing world records.

* Leo-Pol Joannes (France – AU2): A rising star in the para climbing scene, Joannes is demonstrating notable skill in all three disciplines.

Para Climbing Classifications: ensuring Fair Competition

Para climbing classifications are essential for ensuring fair competition. Athletes are grouped based on their functional ability, allowing them to compete against others with similar impairments. The classifications used in para climbing align with those used in other Paralympic sports.

* RP (Reduced Power): For athletes with limb difference, short stature, or muscle weakness.

* RW (Reduced range of Motion): For athletes with impairments affecting joint range of motion.

* AU (Adaptive Upper Limb): For athletes with impairments affecting one or both arms.

* B1-B3 (Visual Impairment): Athletes with varying degrees of visual impairment compete with a guide.

understanding these classifications is vital for appreciating the unique challenges faced by each athlete and the incredible skill required to excel in para sport climbing.

The Impact of Laval on the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics

The Laval qualifications are a pivotal step towards the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics, where para climbing will make its debut. The performance of athletes in Laval will considerably influence team selections and individual qualification pathways. National federations are closely monitoring the results to identify potential medal contenders.The increased visibility of adaptive climbing through Paralympic inclusion is expected to further boost the sport’s popularity and accessibility.

Benefits of Para climbing: Beyond Athletic Achievement

Para climbing offers a multitude of benefits for participants, extending far beyond athletic achievement.

* Physical Rehabilitation: Climbing can aid in physical rehabilitation and improve strength, versatility, and coordination.

* Mental Resilience: The challenges inherent in climbing foster mental resilience, problem-solving skills, and self-confidence.

* Community & inclusion: Para climbing provides a supportive and inclusive community for athletes of all abilities.

* Breaking Barriers: The sport challenges perceptions of disability and demonstrates the incredible potential of adaptive athletes.

Practical Tips for Aspiring Para Climbers

For individuals interested in getting involved in para climbing, here are a few practical tips:

1. Find a Qualified Instructor: Seek out a climbing gym or association with experience in adaptive climbing instruction.
2. Start Slowly: Begin with introductory classes and gradually progress to more challenging routes.
3. Focus on Technique: proper technique is crucial for safety and efficiency.
4. Listen to Your Body: Pay attention to your physical limitations and avoid pushing yourself beyond your capabilities.
5. Connect with the Community: Join a para climbing club or online forum to connect with other climbers and share experiences.