Despite the arrival of warm weather, ice climbers are training hard for the upcoming North American Cup Series.
At Louise McKinney Park, an eight-storey climbing wall provides a unique, ice-free training space for these athletes.
“Climbers train all year on wooden structures,” said Adam Luciuk, owner of Climb YEG. “They use ice axes on rock climbing holds and crampons to kick into the plywood. This is the same style used in international ice climbing competitions.”
Luciuk added that climbing on this wall can be more difficult than climbing actual ice. “You can build overhanging features, and the holds are the same for every athlete, making the competition fair.”
According to Luciuk, Edmonton is one of the few places in North America where ice climbers can train at such a high level.
“Countries like South Korea have many training venues and strong international results,” he said. “We want to support the Canadian team as the sport grows and possibly becomes an Olympic event.”
The June competition is part of the continental cup series, just below the world cup level. Luciuk said competitors at this level can climb 15 metres in about five seconds.
The climbing wall will not stay at Louise McKinney Park forever. Luciuk said they plan to move it to a different location in Edmonton after about a year.
Keeping the wall outdoors helps the city host more climbing events. Finding indoor space for an eight-storey wall and thousands of spectators is difficult.
The North American Cup Series, hosted by Climb YEG, will run from June 20 to 22. The event is free for the public.
After the competition, the wall will reopen to climbers of all skill levels. In winter, ice will cover the wall, offering a colder climbing experience.