Guiyang launches 2026 climbing season with National Youth Open

The 2026 National Youth Climbing Open (Guiyang Station) was held at the Caihu International Climbing Center in Guiyang from May 2 to 4, marking the start of this year's lineup of national and international climbing events in the city. At least five major competitions, including the Climbing World Series and the IFSC Asian Youth Championship Series, were scheduled to take place in Guiyang this year.

The event attracted 817 athletes from 156 teams representing 25 provincial-level regions and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region. Competitions were organized into seven age groups from A8 to U17, and featured speed, lead, and bouldering events.

Climbers are focused during the competition. [Photo/guiyang.gov.cn]

As the host team, Guizhou fielded 68 young climbers. Earlier this year, eight athletes from Guizhou were selected for China's national youth and junior climbing teams, highlighting the province's efforts to promote climbing in schools and strengthen youth talent development.

Located in Guanshanhu Park, the venue blends urban and natural settings. During the competition, athletes and their families also had the opportunity to enjoy Guizhou cuisine and visit attractions such as the Guizhou Provincial Museum and Jiaxiu Tower.

Ahead of the event, China's climbing team delivered an impressive performance at the Sixth Asian Beach Games, winning three gold, one silver, and two bronze medals. Guizhou athlete Long Jianguo and his teammate Zhao Yicheng claimed gold and set a new men's speed relay world record of 9.75 seconds.