A seven metre climbing wall will float on Exeter Quay for the unique contest, staged by The Quay Climbing Centre
This August Exeter will host the UK’s first ever inland deep water solo climbing competition.
The event, which takes place on Saturday 30 and Sunday 31 August, will take place on Exeter Quay and is hosted by The Quay Climbing Centre.
A seven metre high structure will be built on a canal barge and floated into the Quay, making it the country’s first artificial climbing wall on water.
The event has attracted over 40 of the UK and Europe’s top climbers together with over 160 amateurs from across the country to compete in the two day event. The Quay Climbing Centre is entering its own team of local up and coming climbers from the region, including junior GB team member, Alex Waterhouse.
Deep water soloing is one of the fastest growing areas of climbing where climbers attempt to ascend routes on sea cliffs without the use of ropes, using the sea below as their drop-off point when they can no longer climb. It is one of the most visually exciting and challenging areas of the sport and the South West boasts some of the best deep water solo spots in the UK.
Spectators can enjoy the event from the Piazza Terracina, which provides the perfect viewing platform.
On Friday 29 August visitors can also enjoy an evening talk from UK deep water solo legend, Neil Gresham and US climbing star Sierra Blair Coyle.
Neil, who will be competing for Team La Sportiva, said: “This event is one of the most exciting things to happen on the UK climbing scene in years.
“Deep Water Solo Climbing is one of the most visual and free forms of climbing you can experience. This will not only be fantastic for the sport of climbing in general but will do wonders to promote it locally in a region that has a lot to offer those looking for a Deep Water Solo adventure.
“I can’t wait for my chance to go head to head with Britain’s best climbers!”
Hundreds of spectators are expected to attend the event which kicks off at 9.30am both days and is expected to run into the evening.
“Come along and see what all the fuss is about – it costs nothing to come along and watch and the local businesses around the Piazza will be joining in the event offering a host of menus for supporters and visitors throughout the day and evening,” says Paul Russell, Event Director and Quay Climbing Centre Manager.
The event is being sponsored by Entre-Prises UK, DMM International, La Sportiva, Julbo, Tenaya and Snap, with supporting sponsorship from 5.10, A Mind for Adventure, Alpkit, Dewerstone, Haven Banks Outdoor Education Centre, RAB and Taunton Leisure.
