Climbing Jungle reaches new heights with national focus

A NEW Australian youth climbing team has been selected following a major indoor event hosted at Ballina’s Climbing Jungle — with some athletes now in contention for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles.

The National Youth Championships attracted around 390 competitors from across Australia and New Zealand, with events in both boulder and lead disciplines. Held over three days, it was the first national tournament staged at the West Ballina facility.

Sport Climbing Australia oversaw the event, which drew coaches, volunteers and state representatives from across the country.

“It’s the pinnacle event for junior climbing and they train all year for it,” Climbing Jungle coach Joel Richardson said.

“It was a great display of talent, and there was even a competitor here from New Zealand. Some of the competitors go on to national selection, which is huge for them.

“The sport is becoming more mainstream, and we believe we’ve got a solid foundation to build off.”

The sport is part of the Olympic program, and several participants are now eyeing spots in the 2028 and 2032 Games.

Climbing Jungle hosted the event with help from local and visiting volunteers. Gym manager Sally Gidney said it was inspiring for local athletes.

“We’re still relatively new, and a lot of our youth squad have been inspired just by watching this year,” she said.

“I think we’re one of only four gyms in Australia that has the height to host this level of event.

“We’re lucky with our set-up — we’re also one of the only facilities that can run both boulder and lead competitions in the same gym.”