Bend climbers qualify for bouldering nationals

Published 8:04 am Friday, February 16, 2024

Climbers from the Bend Endurance Academy had outstanding performances this past weekend at the Boulder Divisional Championships at Portland Rock Gym, according to a news release. Four climbers from Bend finished in the top six to qualify for the USA Climbing Bouldering National Championships this July, including Will Hunzicker, Drew Childers, Vance Stanfield, and Soren Hasselblad.

The climbers showcased their skill on four boulders in the qualifying rounds. The championship event featured a new competition format, challenging climbers in its complexity and novelty. Ten athletes from Bend Endurance Academy progressed from the qualification rounds to the finals.

“We are so excited for all our climbers who competed in this year’s divisionals,” said Cate Beebe, climbing director and coach at Bend Endurance Academy. “Their success is a testament to the supportive community and specific training environment here at BEA. We congratulate all our athletes on their performances at divisionals and we’ll continue our boulder-specific training with our qualified climbers as they prepare for nationals.”

The USA Climbing Youth National Championships are set for Salt Lake City, July 9-16.

The Bend Endurance Academy is a nonprofit based in Central Oregon that offers development programs for youth and juniors in rock climbing, cycling, and Nordic skiing.

For more information, visit www.bendenduranceacademy.org.

— Bulletin staff report

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