Athletes Celebrate Discipline Separation in Paris Sport Climbing Competition

The Paris sport climbing competition concludes with athletes celebrating the separation of the speed discipline from boulder and lead. The move, following its debut at the Tokyo Olympics, allowed climbers to focus on their strengths, break world records, and improve overall performance. Possible further changes for LA 2028 are discussed.

The Paris sport climbing competition concludes with athletes celebrating the decision to separate the speed discipline from boulder and lead. The sport, having made its Olympic debut in Tokyo, unified the three disciplines into one medal, sparking criticism.

"It's like a sprinter in a decathlon," Austrian climber Jakob Schubert noted about the previous format, emphasizing the differences between the disciplines. Speed focuses on power, while lead and boulder emphasize technique and problem-solving.

The separation improved athlete performance, with numerous world records broken in Paris. The move has prompted discussions about further splitting boulder and lead for LA 2028, enhancing specialization and competition.

(With inputs from agencies.)