Sport Climbing at the 2024 Olympics: The Combined Event and Athletes to Watch

 # Sport Climbing at the 2024 Olympics: The Combined Event and Athletes to Watch

## Introduction

Sport climbing made its Olympic debut at the Tokyo 2020 Games, captivating audiences with its unique blend of strength, technique, and strategy. For the Paris 2024 Olympics, sport climbing will return with an evolved format, including the highly anticipated combined event. This article delves into the details of the sport climbing combined event, highlights key athletes to watch, and explores what makes this competition a standout in the Olympic lineup.

## The Sport Climbing Combined Event

### Format and Scoring

The combined event for sport climbing at the Paris 2024 Olympics will feature a blend of three disciplines: lead climbing, bouldering, and speed climbing. This format was introduced in Tokyo 2020 and will be retained for Paris, offering a comprehensive test of climbers' skills across different climbing styles.

1. **Lead Climbing**: Climbers ascend a roped route on a vertical wall, with points awarded based on how high they climb before falling. The goal is to reach the highest point or to complete the route.

2. **Bouldering**: This discipline involves climbing short, challenging routes without ropes, with climbers trying to complete problems (or routes) in as few attempts as possible. The problems are graded by difficulty, and climbers receive points based on the number of attempts and problems completed.

3. **Speed Climbing**: Climbers race against the clock on a standardized route. The fastest climber wins this discipline.

In the combined event, athletes accumulate scores across these three disciplines. The final standings are determined by the combined scores, which reflect their proficiency in all three areas. This format demands a versatile skill set and strategic approach from the climbers.

### Why the Combined Event Stands Out

The combined event is unique in the Olympics because it tests climbers' abilities across multiple disciplines, rather than specializing in just one. This format highlights the versatility and adaptability of climbers, making it a dynamic and engaging competition. Fans enjoy the variety and intensity of watching athletes switch between different styles and challenges.

## Key Athletes to Watch in Paris 2024

### 1. **Janja Garnbret (Slovenia)**

Janja Garnbret is a name synonymous with sport climbing excellence. The Slovenian climber is known for her impressive performances in both bouldering and lead climbing. Having won multiple World Championship titles and World Cup events, Garnbret is a strong contender for the combined event. Her versatility and technical skills make her a top athlete to watch in Paris.

### 2. **Adam Ondra (Czech Republic)**

Adam Ondra is one of the most renowned climbers in the world, known for his achievements in lead climbing and bouldering. Ondra's remarkable ability to excel in both disciplines, combined with his experience and competitive edge, positions him as a key athlete in the combined event. His previous Olympic performance and extensive climbing resume add to his potential for success in Paris.

### 3. **Miho Nonaka (Japan)**

Miho Nonaka is a prominent figure in the sport climbing scene, with strong performances in bouldering and lead climbing. Her agility, strength, and competition experience make her a formidable competitor. Nonaka's dedication to the sport and her ability to handle high-pressure situations make her a climber to watch at the Paris Games.

### 4. **Tomoa Narasaki (Japan)**

Tomoa Narasaki is a versatile climber with a background in both bouldering and speed climbing. His rapid ascent in the climbing world and his performance in various international competitions have established him as a key athlete. Narasaki's skill set and competitive spirit are likely to make him a strong contender in the combined event.

### 5. **Jesse Grupper (USA)**

Jesse Grupper is an emerging talent in the sport climbing community. Known for his impressive performances in youth and domestic competitions, Grupper's recent successes and rising profile make him a climber to watch. His dedication and potential for growth could see him make a significant impact at the Paris 2024 Games.

## The Impact of Sport Climbing on the Olympics

### Growing Popularity

Sport climbing's inclusion in the Olympics has contributed to the sport's growing popularity and visibility. The combined event format showcases the diversity of climbing skills and brings a fresh perspective to the Olympic Games. The excitement surrounding the climbers and the challenges they face adds a dynamic element to the competition.

### Inspiring Future Generations

The presence of elite climbers at the Olympics serves as an inspiration for young athletes and climbing enthusiasts worldwide. The combination of athleticism, strategy, and mental toughness demonstrated by these climbers encourages the next generation to pursue the sport and aspire to Olympic success.

## Conclusion

The sport climbing combined event at the Paris 2024 Olympics promises to be a thrilling and captivating competition, featuring some of the world's best climbers. With a format that tests a climber's versatility and skill across lead climbing, bouldering, and speed climbing, the combined event is set to be a highlight of the Games. Athletes like Janja Garnbret, Adam Ondra, Miho Nonaka, Tomoa Narasaki, and Jesse Grupper will be among the key competitors, each bringing their unique strengths to the challenge. As sport climbing continues to grow in popularity, the Paris 2024 Olympics will undoubtedly showcase the exciting future of this dynamic and demanding sport.