Climbers aim to be top of the world at Ratho arena

Organised by the Edinburgh International Climbing Arena, Ratho, in conjunction with the British Mountaineering Council, this weekend’s event marks the first time the International Federation of Sport Climbing World Cup has been held near the Capital since 2003 and the first time a Paraclimbing Cup has been held in Scotland.

More than 1,200 spectators are expected to attend the arena over the two days to watch up to 200 of the world’s top climbers compete in two disciplines; Lead and Speed climbing in the World Cup, while in the Paraclimbing Cup, up to 50 climbers will take part in one of 10 climbing categories.

Junior and adult tickets and weekend and day passes are now available, priced £6.50 to £15 from www.eica-ratho.co.uk/climbing-world-cup

If driving, please note that parking at Ratho will be limited to 300 cars per day and there will be a £10 charge for parking on-site.

Free parking will be available off-site with a shuttle bus transfer.

The Climbing World Cup comes to Ratho at a time when sport climbing is enjoying a renewed popularity.

In 2020 it will make its debut at the Tokyo Olympic Games after being approved by the International Olympic Committee as part of a package of five sports, all selected for their key focus on youth, which is at the heart of the Games’ vision for Tokyo 2020.

The events at Ratho are being funded by Edinburgh Leisure, City of Edinburgh Council and is being supported by EventScotland.

Climbing World Cup, Edinburgh International Climbing Arena: Ratho, Sat 23 & Sun 24 Sep, £6.50 to £15 from www.eica-ratho.co.uk/