A significant upgrade to the UK’s sole international-standard speed climbing wall at the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena (EICA: Ratho) is set to enhance the experience for athletes and climbers alike. Mountaineering Scotland, through its ClimbScotland initiative, has facilitated this enhancement with an investment in new official holds certified by the International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC).
This major investment was made possible by reallocating funds from sportscotland and indicates a commitment to maintaining high training standards for climbers at EICA. The upgrade comes after extensive collaboration with the speed climbing community that utilizes the venue for regular training and competition preparation.
“The new speed climbing holds are a game changer for the sport in Scotland,” said Andrew Goodall, a GB Climbing speed climber. “Access to international-standard holds means we can now train on a wall that mirrors those used in top competition. It’s a big step forward, not just for me but for the next generation coming through as well.”
EICA stands out as the only facility in the UK featuring IFSC-standard walls across all three Olympic disciplines: lead, boulder, and speed. Jamie Smith, Development Manager at ClimbScotland, expressed enthusiasm about the new additions, stating, “We’re thrilled to see the new speed holds installed and ready for action. This upgrade is part of a wider strategy to grow participation and performance in speed climbing as a standalone Olympic medal discipline.” He also emphasized the effort to collaborate with sportscotland Institute of Sport and Edinburgh Leisure to nurture Scotland's climbing talent.
The timing of this investment is critical as it sets the stage for upcoming national competitions. Round 3 of the British Speed Series will be hosted at EICA, with dates to be announced soon. This should provide further opportunities for athletes to showcase their skills on the enhanced wall.
Victoria Harper, Manager of EICA: Ratho, expressed gratitude for the support received: “Edinburgh Leisure would like to express a huge thank you to Mountaineering Scotland and in turn, sportscotland, for their generous investment in the new speed holds at EICA.” She added that the upgrade ensures the venue’s speed wall continues to meet the highest standards following previous upgrades made before the 2022 World Cup supported by multiple local and national organizations.
The enhancement not only focuses on speed climbing but also integrates the new bouldering facilities, reinforcing EICA’s status as a premier venue for both training and international competition. “We’re especially excited about the opportunities this creates for our young speed athletes to train on world-class equipment,” Harper noted.
Since its inception ten years ago, ClimbScotland has been dedicated to supporting young climbers, from grassroots participation to elite competition. “Over the past decade, the initiative – funded by sportscotland – has helped grow the sport across Scotland by providing coaching, talent development, and access to climbing opportunities for all,” said a spokesperson for ClimbScotland.
The continuous improvements and commitments to facilities demonstrate a positive trajectory for climbing in Scotland, making it an exciting time for both aspiring athletes and seasoned climbers alike. The new equipment and strategic initiatives promise to inspire the next generation of speed climbers to reach their full potential.
For those interested in getting involved in speed climbing, further information can be obtained by contacting ClimbScotland directly.