Friday 16th October 2026 saw an incredible display of climbing talent, determination and sportsmanship at the Northern Ireland Schools Bouldering Competition, with over 100 young climbers representing 24 different schools taking part in an exciting day of competition.
The event brought together pupils of varying abilities and experience levels, all eager to challenge themselves, represent their schools and enjoy the thrill of competitive bouldering.
To ensure a fair and enjoyable competition, participants were divided into two categories:
- Novice: Climbers with less than one year’s climbing experience.
- Experienced: Climbers with more than one year’s climbing experience.
This format provided an excellent opportunity for newcomers to experience competitive climbing while allowing more established climbers to showcase their skills on challenging problems.
Each climber had the opportunity to attempt 80 boulders of increasing difficulty, with their top 10 successful climbs counting towards their final result. This format encouraged competitors to push themselves, try increasingly difficult problems and develop their own strategies to achieve the best possible score.
From technical slabs requiring careful footwork and balance to powerful overhanging problems demanding strength and determination, there was something to challenge every level of climber.
For those competing in the Novice category, the event offered an exciting introduction to competitive climbing, while the Experienced climbers had the chance to demonstrate the skills and techniques developed through regular training.
Bouldering is about much more than reaching the top of a wall. It encourages young people to develop confidence, resilience, independence and problem-solving skills.
Congratulations to all the pupils who participated in the Northern Ireland Schools Bouldering Competition 2026. Their enthusiasm, determination and willingness to challenge themselves made the event a fantastic celebration of youth climbing.
A huge thank you also goes to the organisers, route setters, volunteers, teachers and supporters who helped make the competition possible.
