My First Paraclimbing World Cup – Innsbruck 2025
Last week, I had the incredible opportunity to represent GB at the Paraclimbing World Cup in Innsbruck, Austria. It was my very first international competition – a whirlwind of emotions, steep learning curves, and some unforgettable moments.
From Birmingham to the Mountains
My journey began early Friday morning, flying from Birmingham to Munich, followed by a scenic two-and-a-half-hour coach ride to Innsbruck. As we wound through the Austrian countryside, the views were nothing short of breathtaking – towering mountains surrounding lush green valleys. I couldn’t help but feel a growing sense of excitement and anticipation.
After checking into my Airbnb and grabbing a bite to eat, I took a short walk down to KI, the climbing centre where the competition would take place. Seeing the iconic outdoor wall – completely bare without any holds – was surreal. I’d only ever seen it in photos or on competition livestreams, fully set and buzzing with action. In that quiet moment, reality hit: I was really here, about to compete on one of the biggest stages in paraclimbing.
Settling In and Team Vibes
On Saturday, I met up with the rest of the GB team at KI. We had a light training session indoors alongside teams from around the world. The atmosphere was electric – friendly, supportive, and filled with shared excitement for the days ahead.
Classification Challenges
Sunday brought a tough moment: classification. I had previously competed in the RP1 category at the Dutch Open earlier this year and had hoped to remain there. Unfortunately, due to changes in how a couple of shoulder movements were assessed, I missed out on RP1 by just four points. It was a bitter pill to swallow.
There was talk of appealing, but after some reflection, I decided to accept the outcome and focus on climbing. I was placed in RP2 – a category with significantly stronger athletes – which I knew would make qualification incredibly challenging.
A Silver Lining – And a Shoutout!
My day turned around thanks to a moment I’ll never forget: I got to hand over a sample of my ClimbCare Hand Balm to Matt Groom. I’d reached out to him before the comp and said I’d bring one along. Not only did he try it, but he also gave me a shoutout and did a quick promo video on Instagram. I was hugely grateful – it was a great boost during a difficult day. Check out the Video on his Vlog -
Qualification Day – A Test of Limits
Monday was game day. I was second up on the first qualification route – a steep, overhanging line on the main wall. I struggled. My left arm, weakened by FSHD and missing its tricep, just couldn’t generate the movement I needed. I reached hold 13+, while the top climbers in my group were hitting 21+. It was a tough gap to process.
After an agonising six-hour wait – extended further by a rain delay – I was back out for my second route. This one was less steep and I climbed slightly better, reaching 15+. I made a poor decision near the top which cost me, but at least I didn’t come last on that one.
Still, I finished last overall and didn’t make finals. Realistically, I knew that competing in RP2 would be a serious stretch, but it was still hard to accept. That said, it was a learning experience I’ll carry with me into every future comp.
Breathing Room at the Top of Innsbruck
Tuesday morning, before finals, I gave myself a much-needed break. I took the cable car up to the top of Innsbruck, and honestly, it was just what I needed. After the stress of competition, it felt like a reset. The view from the top was absolutely stunning – the city spread out below, framed tall mountain peaks in every direction. It reminded me why I love this sport and the places it takes me.
Inspired and Fired Up
That afternoon, I joined the rest of the team and the crowds to watch the finals – and what a show it was. Watching the world’s best paraclimbers give everything on the wall was inspiring and humbling. Four of our GB teammates made it to the finals:
Luke Smith (Male RP3)
Lucy Keyworth (Female RP1)
Charly Andrew (Female RP3) – a great friend and owner of Frome Boulder Rooms
Luke Jamieson (Male RP1)
Seeing them all climb at such a high level only fuelled my determination. I want to be out there too – not just climbing, but competing for medals.
Eyes on the Future
Next year I’ll go through the reclassification process again, and I’ll be hoping to return to the RP1 category. But no matter what happens, I’ll be pushing myself hard. If I remain RP2, I’ll rise to the challenge and try and find the strength to be competitive.
I flew home Wednesday, tired but full of motivation. It was great to be back with my wife and kids, and now the hard work begins – getting stronger, climbing smarter, and preparing for the next big one: the World Cup in Laval in October.
Thanks for following my journey. If you’re into climbing or just love a good underdog story, stick around – I’m only just getting started.
And if you haven’t already, check out our ClimbCare Hand Balm – Real Ingredients - Real Results.
See you on the wall,
Steve