An exciting, new Olympic discipline has gained a foothold on the Sunshine Coast.
Sport climbing, which will make its debut at the Tokyo Games this year, has garnered extra attention in the region.
A specialised gym, Flow Bouldering, opened at Forest Glen in February and it hosted many of Australia’s best climbers, at the recent Queensland Boulder Titles.
National representative and Tokyo-bound Tim O’Halloran, from the Blue Mountains, edged Queensland champion Sam Bowman to win the open A males division. Sarah Reynolds won the open A female section.
Business co-founder and general manager James Hembury expected the sport to keep growing.
“My wife Angel and I have always loved climbing,” he said.
“It’s the only thing that really pushes you to the limit, not just as a sport but also in terms of travel, adventure, and mindset.
“We were so excited when we opened Flow because it meant we could bring that lifestyle and community to the Sunshine Coast.
“With the Olympics coming up we can’t wait to see more people involved in the sport.”
Sport climbing has three disciplines, Lead, Speed and Boulder, and it involves athletes climbing a variety of difficult routes, pushing themselves mentally and physically to overcome problems in a limited amount of time.”
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Federal Member for Fairfax Ted O’Brien, who is the Prime Minister’s representative on the 2032 Olympic bid committee, welcomed the sport to the region.
“These are the kinds of sports the Olympic Games can elevate to the next level,” he said,
“I’m amazed by how strong and fast these athletes have to be.”
He toured Flow Bouldering with Mr Hembury.
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“I’m incredibly impressed.”
“But, I think I’ll keep my feet firmly planted on the floor and watch from here.
“I can’t wait to see how Olympic audiences react to this sport.”
