T-1 World Youth Championship

                           
                                 2013 USA YOUTH CLIMBING TEAM, VICTORIA, B.C.

It is almost here, tomorrow morning the World Youth Championship Competition starts with qualifier route 1 for lead climbers. The team's day began with a light workout at The University of Victoria's recreation center followed by lunch at the dinning hall. Zoe Steinberg arrived today, WELCOME Zoe, we are so glad you are here! A formal team picture was taken by Bruce Mitchell later in the afternoon during a break in the rain showers. Coach Megan and team girls once again decorated the van with USA pride only to have it washed off by the rain again. But rest assured, a little rain did not stop them. On their way to opening ceremonies they stopped to buy more window crayons and once again decorated the vans! Way to go Meghan and team.

The opening ceremonies were held at The Boulders Climbing Gym. The rain stopped and the weather was perfect for the evening event. All the teams from around the world were present along with parents, family and friends.  Strong USA pride and representation by both our team and spectators was present. Athletes got to meet other climbers from around the world, many reuniting with friends from past competitions.  There were several local dignitaries and IFSC officials who formally welcomed the competitors. Josh Levin represented the USA Team during the introductions of all teams participating, way to go Josh you made us all proud! Representatives from a local native American tribe performed a song with drums while their youth performed a traditional tribal dance. A unique performance of rope dancing was performed on the wall. Overall a big thumbs up to Kimanda and staff for putting together such  great opening ceremonies.

Climbing starts at 9:30 a.m. Pacific time. Running orders can be found at                           http://www.ifsc-climbing.org/index.php/world-competition

Following is a quick summary of the running orders for Team USA climbers;

FYB                                                                      MYB
Claire Buhrfeind (8)                                              Ben Hanna (7)
Margo Hayes (21)                                                 Sam Enright (10)
Melina Costanza (35)                                            Drew Ruana (18)
Rita Marsanova (39)                                             Kai Lightner (25)

FYA                                                                     MYA
Connor Everton (13)                                            Samantha Scharenberg (9)
Brendan Mitchell (17)                                          Chloe LaBerge (12)
Nicholas Bradley (24)                                          Zoe Steinberg (22)
Brian Huang (34)                                                 Kyra Condie (24)
Sean Bailey (44)

FJR                                                                      MJR
Shannon Russell (13)                                          Dominic LaBarge (2)
Delaney Miller (16)                                             Josh Levin (4)
Nicole Hansen (24)                                             Joe Gifford (20)
Michaela Kiersch (27)                                         Dylan Barks (25)
Alexa Nazarian (28)                                            Noah Ridge (28)

Good Luck to all USA Team Members tomorrow!