Sport climbing combined Olympics is one of the most exciting events in the world of sports. This special format was first seen in the Tokyo 2020 Olympics and will return again in Paris 2024 with some changes. If you love climbing or just want to understand what it is, this guide is for you.
We’ll break everything down using easy words, so even an 11-year-old can enjoy and understand it. Plus, we’ll answer all your questions before we wrap up!
What is Sport Climbing Combined Olympics?
The sport climbing combined Olympics event is a competition where climbers compete in three different climbing styles. These are:
- Speed Climbing
- Bouldering
- Lead Climbing
In the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, all three styles were combined into one event. Athletes had to be good at all of them. That made it tough but super fun to watch!
In Paris 2024, the format has changed a little. Speed climbing will be a separate medal event, while bouldering and lead climbing will be combined into one event.
Let’s understand each one better.
Speed Climbing in Sport Climbing Combined Olympics
Speed climbing is simple but thrilling. Two climbers race side-by-side on a 15-meter wall, trying to reach the top as fast as possible.
- The wall is always the same around the world.
- It’s like running a sprint on a vertical wall.
- The fastest climber wins!
In the Tokyo 2020 format, athletes had to compete in speed climbing even if it wasn’t their strength. But now, for Paris 2024, speed climbing will be its own event, which makes it fairer.
Did you know? The world record for women is 6.25 seconds and for men it’s 4.90 seconds!
Bouldering in Sport Climbing Combined Olympics
Bouldering is like solving a climbing puzzle. Climbers climb short walls (about 4.5 meters high) without ropes. They try to:
- Reach the top of the wall
- Use as few tries as possible
- Solve tricky climbing problems
They have a time limit to figure it out. Balance, strength, and smarts are all needed here.
In the combined format, bouldering is paired with lead climbing for one score.
Lead Climbing in Sport Climbing Combined Olympics
Lead climbing is all about height. Climbers wear a rope and try to climb as high as they can on a tall wall within a time limit (usually 6 minutes).
- The wall can be over 15 meters high
- The higher you go, the better your score
- It tests stamina and strategy
Together with bouldering, it shows how well-rounded a climber is.
How is Scoring Done in Sport Climbing Combined Olympics?
In Tokyo 2020, the scores from speed, bouldering, and lead were multiplied together to get a final score. The lowest score wins.
Example:
- Speed rank: 2
- Bouldering rank: 3
- Lead rank: 1
- Final score = 2 × 3 × 1 = 6
This made it important to be good in all three events.
For Paris 2024:
- Speed climbing is scored separately.
- Bouldering + Lead is scored together using a point system based on how well you climb.
- That way, climbers don’t need to train for all three if they focus on just one or two.
For more on the new format, check the official Paris 2024 Olympic sport climbing page.
Why Was the Sport Climbing Combined Olympics Format Changed?
The Tokyo format got mixed reviews. While it was fun, many people said it wasn’t fair because:
- Most climbers specialize in just one or two disciplines.
- It was hard to train for all three events equally.
- Speed climbing is very different from bouldering and lead.
So, the International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC) suggested a change. Now, climbers can focus more on their strengths.
Famous Athletes in Sport Climbing Combined Olympics
Some names you might have heard from the Tokyo 2020 Olympics include:
- Janja Garnbret (Slovenia): She won gold and is amazing at bouldering and lead.
- Alberto Ginés López (Spain): He shocked the world by winning the men’s gold.
- Adam Ondra (Czech Republic): A climbing legend, especially in lead climbing.
- Miho Nonaka and Akiyo Noguchi (Japan): Top performers in women’s bouldering.
With Paris 2024 around the corner, we’re excited to see who shines next!
Why is Sport Climbing Combined Olympics So Fun to Watch?
There are many reasons why this event is so exciting:
- It’s fast-paced: Especially in speed climbing, every second counts!
- It’s full of surprises: A small slip can change everything.
- It’s about brain and body: Bouldering needs problem-solving, and lead climbing needs endurance.
- The walls look super cool: Bright colors, tricky holds, and big moves!
Even if you’ve never climbed, you’ll enjoy cheering for your favorite athletes.
How Do Athletes Train for Sport Climbing Combined Olympics?
Training is different for each discipline:
- Speed: Lots of leg power, timing, and repeating the same route.
- Bouldering: Problem-solving, short bursts of strength, and practicing many different wall types.
- Lead: Long climbs, building grip strength, and managing fear of falling.
Some athletes train 6 days a week! They also work with coaches, trainers, and sports psychologists.
What Gear is Used in Sport Climbing Combined Olympics?
You don’t need a lot, but you need the right stuff:
- Climbing shoes: Tight shoes that help grip the wall
- Chalk: Helps keep hands dry
- Harness and rope: For lead climbing only
- Climbing outfit: Stretchy and comfy!
How Can You Try Sport Climbing?
Many cities now have climbing gyms where kids and adults can try climbing. You can start with bouldering since it doesn’t need ropes. It’s fun, safe, and good exercise!
Want to find a gym near you? Visit USA Climbing or IFSC Gym Finder.
FAQs About Sport Climbing Combined Olympics
What does “combined” mean in sport climbing?
It means combining different climbing events—like speed, bouldering, and lead—into one competition.
Is sport climbing in the Olympics now?
Yes! It made its debut in Tokyo 2020 and will return in Paris 2024.
Do athletes have to do all three events?
In Tokyo 2020, yes. But in Paris 2024, speed is separate, and bouldering and lead are combined.
How do they win in the combined event?
They get scores based on performance. In the new system, higher points mean better performance.
Is sport climbing safe?
Yes! With the right gear and supervision, it’s one of the safest sports.
Conclusion
The sport climbing combined Olympics brings something fresh and exciting to the world stage. It challenges athletes in many ways, tests both brain and body, and gives fans non-stop action.
With the new changes for Paris 2024, the event is now fairer and even more thrilling. Whether you’re a new fan or a climbing pro, this is one Olympic event you won’t want to miss.
So, grab some popcorn and cheer for your favorites as they race, climb, and conquer the wall!