Climbing’s Olympic Debut Continues in Paris
Imagine clinging to a wall with nothing but your fingertips, strategizing your next move while the world watches. That’s the reality for USA climbing athletes at the 2024 Paris Olympics, where sport climbing returns for its second Games appearance. Whether you’re new to climbing or just curious about this thrilling sport, this guide will introduce you to Team USA’s brightest stars, explain the Olympic format, and maybe even inspire you to try a climb yourself!
A Quick History of Sport Climbing in the Olympics
Climbing made its Olympic debut at the 2020 Tokyo Games (held in 2021), blending three disciplines: Speed, Bouldering, and Lead. The combined format tested athletes’ versatility, but Paris 2024 introduces a twist: Speed will now be a standalone event, while Boulder and Lead remain combined. This change rewards specialists while keeping the competition unpredictable.
For Team USA, Tokyo was a breakout moment. Kyra Condie and Nathaniel Coleman put American climbing on the map, with Coleman snagging silver. Now, a new generation aims for gold in Paris.
Team USA’s Top Athletes to Watch in 2024
3.1. Natalia Grossman: The Boulder Queen
- Age: 23 | Hometown: Santa Cruz, CA
- Key Achievements: 2x Boulder World Champion (2021, 2022), 2023 Pan American Games Gold Medalist
- Why Watch Her: Natalia’s precision on boulders (short, technical routes) is unmatched. Her calm demeanor under pressure makes her a fan favorite.
- Fun Fact: She started climbing at 5 years old after her dad built a home wall!
3.2. Colin Duffy: The Teen Prodigy
- Age: 19 | Hometown: Broomfield, CO
- Key Achievements: Youngest American Olympic climber (Tokyo 2020), 2023 World Cup Lead Silver Medalist
- Why Watch Him: Colin’s fluidity on lead routes (tall, endurance-based climbs) is mesmerizing. At 19, he’s already a veteran.
- Fun Fact: He balances climbing with studying aerospace engineering!
3.3. Brooke Raboutou: Consistency Personified
- Age: 22 | Hometown: Boulder, CO
- Key Achievements: 5x Youth World Champion, Tokyo 2020 Finalist
- Why Watch Her: Brooke thrives in combined formats. Her ability to adapt between Speed, Boulder, and Lead makes her a medal contender.
- Fun Fact: Her parents are legendary climbers Didier Raboutou and Robyn Erbesfield.
How Olympic Climbing Works: Speed, Boulder, and Lead
Paris 2024 splits climbing into two medal events:
- Speed Climbing: A head-to-head race up a 15m wall. The fastest time wins (under 6 seconds for elites!).
- Boulder & Lead Combined: Athletes tackle bouldering (4-5 short puzzles) and lead (one long route). Points are combined for rankings.
Beginner Tip: Think of Speed as a sprint, Boulder as chess with your body, and Lead as a marathon.
How to Follow the 2024 Climbing Events
- When: August 5–10, 2024
- Where: Le Bourget Climbing Venue, Paris
- Watch Live: NBC (USA broadcast) or Peacock for streaming. Follow USA Climbing’s social media for updates!
- Key Dates: Qualifiers (August 5–7), Finals (August 8–10).
FAQs About Climbing and the Olympics
Q: How do athletes qualify for the Olympics?
A: Through the IFSC World Championships, continental qualifiers, and a last-chance Olympic Qualifier Series. Only 40 climbers (20 per gender) make the cut.
Q: Can I try climbing as a beginner?
A: Absolutely! Start at a local gym with a beginner class. Climbing is scalable—kids and adults alike can enjoy it.
Q: Why is Speed Climbing controversial?
A: Some argue it’s too different from Boulder/Lead. Paris 2024’s split format addresses this by letting Speed specialists shine.
Q: What gear do climbers use?
A: Shoes, chalk, and a harness (for Lead/Speed). No ropes in Boulder—thick crash pads cushion falls.
Conclusion: Get Inspired and Start Climbing!
The 2024 Paris Olympics will showcase the grit, creativity, and raw strength of USA climbing athletes like Natalia, Colin, and Brooke. Whether you’re cheering from home or hitting the gym afterward, remember: every pro climber started as a beginner. Ready to try? Find a local climbing gym, rent some shoes, and embrace the challenge. Who knows—you might be the next Olympian in 2028!
