10.08.2023
Thrilling Competition Sets the Stage for Climbing World Championships Finals.
As day turned to night in Bern, anticipation reached a fever pitch at the IFSC Climbing World Championships. The Boulder & Lead Semi-Finals concluded with captivating performances, setting the stage for the finals with Olympic aspirations hanging in the balance.
The morning’s Boulder category commanded attention, but it was the evening’s Lead competition that truly captured the spotlight. With three Olympic Games spots per category available for Paris 2024, the stakes have never been higher.
Men’s Competition: Japan and France Take the Lead
In the men’s Boulder & Lead: Boulder semi-finals, Anraku Sorato of Japan emerged at the top with three tops and 84.9 points. Teammate Narasaki Tomoa followed closely, while France’s Paul Jenft impressed with 84.3 points, stating, “The hardest part is done as the boulder is more powerful, and I think if I climb well and make good decisions, I can really go high in the Lead route.” The Lead round solidified the standings, with Sorato maintaining dominance and securing first place with 184.9 points. Toby Roberts of Great Britain clinched second place with 164.7 points after a riveting top that brought the house down, followed by Colin Duffy of the USA and Tomoa of Japan.
Women’s Competition: Garnbret Shines
Slovenia’s Janja Garnbret stood out, claiming her spot in the top eight with a total score of 175. Japan’s Mori Ai and France’s Oriane Bertone also advanced to the finals, while Anastasia Sanders of the USA and South Korea’s Kim Jain added intrigue with unexpected performances.
Anticipating the Finals
With Olympic dreams at stake, the finals promise intense competition. Adam Ondra of the Czech Republic, South Korea’s Lee Dohyun, and France’s Paul Jenft complete the list of finalists, all preparing for a fierce battle.
Roberts, reflecting on the semi-finals, enthused, “The crowd was just electric. I was properly in the moment and I’m really happy.” Fans worldwide will watch with bated breath as the competitors strive for Olympic glory.
Final Schedules:
Women’s Boulder & Lead Final: 11 August at 19:00.
Men’s Boulder & Lead Final: 12 August at 16:00.
Full women’s results can be found here, and full men’s results here.
The IFSC Climbing World Championships in Bern has evolved into an awe-inspiring event. With the stakes so high, the finals promise a spectacle that no climbing enthusiast will want to miss. The road to Paris 2024 is now clear, and the athletes are one step closer to realizing their Olympic dreams.
Photos: David Schweizer