Climbers set for a fresh challenge at University of Warwick

Climbers are set to enjoy a brand-new challenge this September, as the Sports and Wellness Hub at the University of Warwick reveals its freshly upgraded climbing wall.

The upgraded Climbing Centre now features at least 20% more routes, including a mix of auto-belay and roped climbs. With a wider variety of wall angles, extra space and even more creative route setting, climbers of all abilities will find more ways to test themselves.

Alan Jephcott, Climbing Centre Manager at University of Warwick, said: “The upgrades to our wall within the Climbing Centre at the Sports and Wellness Hub marks a momentous opportunity for us.

“By offering more variety in routes, with auto-belay and top rope climbing options, we’re prioritising our commitment to ensure that our Centre is accessible for all climbers, regardless of age or ability. By extending the climbing wall footprint, increasing the climbing surface area, and introducing a variety of wall angles, we’re now able to offer more lines and an even better experience for our climbing community whilst responding to the latest climbing industry trends.

“I can’t wait to see our customers enjoy the wall and I’m excited to see our climbing community evolve and diversify as a result of our new and improved product.”

Reflecting the growing popularity of climbing in recent years, the University has partnered with EP Climbing, the UK’s largest climbing wall manufacturer, to replace unused sections of the previous wall with new Mozaik panels. The result is a new wall that incorporates industry trends and is more accessible to the full spectrum of the Centre’s climbing community.

The bigger wall will also allow more participants in Warwick’s popular Bear Cubs programme for young climbers, and enable new initiatives such as climbing Rock Up & Play sessions for University staff and students.

Mark Hyndman, Director of Sport and Active Lifestyle at Warwick, added: “In 2019 the University invested £53 million into its sports facilities. We recognised from that moment that we can’t stand still. Listening to our students and wider customer base has driven our investment choices, and we are always looking for the latest trends to help us serve our community from an active wellness and sport perspective.”

Jack Jago, Climbing Wall Senior Sales Manager at EP Climbing, said: “With the new developments we’ve had a focus on making sure the wall is accessible for not just traditional rope climbing but for auto-belay climbing as well, fitting each line with an auto-belay bracket so that allows for both auto-belay and rope climbing. With the new design we’ve made sure that the angles are accessible and suitable for all ages and abilities.”

Find out more about the University of Warwick’s sporting facilities, including the climbing wall, by visiting the Warwick Sport website.

ENDS