Local climbing prodigies Lucy Sinclair (pictured) and Azaria Briscoe have had their world champ debuts in Dallas, Texas.
The 16-year-olds represented New Zealand at the two-week IFSC Climbing Youth World Championships, competing in bouldering
and lead climbing disciplines.
Out of 56 competitors in the Female Youth A division, Lucy placed 36th in lead and 38th in bouldering, and Azaria placed 46th and 43rd,
respectively.
It was the first time they’d competed at the world champs, and just the second time they’ve competed internationally after attending the
Australian national champs in June.
‘‘As a world cup event it’s the pinnacle of climbing competitions in the world, [and] the standard of climbing was so high compared to New Zealand level,’’ Lucy says.
The girls agree it was exciting to meet and compete against other ‘‘super-cool’’ athletes as well as use purpose-built climbing gyms with ‘‘big holds’’ and challenging route settings.
Azaria says it was amazing to see the level at which others climbed, and how important technique and strength is.
They’ll next compete at December’s NZ Bouldering Nationals, being held in Christchurch.
