Salt Lake City, Utah – March 26, 2026 – Salt Lake City will host the World Climbing Para Series (formerly the IFSC Para Climbing World Cup) from May 15–16. The event will welcome the world’s top Para Climbers, including World Champions and Paralympic hopefuls.
The competition, hosted by USA Climbing, returns to Momentum Indoor Climbing Fort Union and will serve as the opening event of the 2026 World Climbing Para Series. The series has seen rapid growth following the International Paralympic Committee’s announcement of Para Climbing’s inclusion in the Paralympic Games Los Angeles 2028.
Last year, 171 athletes representing 24 countries competed in Salt Lake City, with the United States earning the overall combined team ranking and finishing with 14 medals.
“There’s definitely something special about competing in front of a home crowd. The cheers are always a little louder in Salt Lake City,” said Emily Seelenfreund, who won gold at the Para Climbing World Championships in Seoul this past fall. “I trust myself and my climbing so much more now. I know what I can do, so now it’s really about trying as hard as I can on the wall, having fun, and savoring the experience.”
Seelenfreund competes in the RP2 sport class, one of 20 classifications that group athletes based on their disability or its impact. Athletes across the B (visually impaired), AL/AU (limb deficiency), and RP (limited power or mobility) sport classes will all represent their respective federations at the event this May.
“We’re proud to welcome the world’s top Para Climbers back to Salt Lake City for the World Climbing Para Series,” said Marc Norman, President & CEO of USA Climbing. “This event highlights both the strength of Para Climbing in the United States and the global momentum behind the sport as we approach LA28!”
Spectator tickets are now on sale. Media interested in covering the event are encouraged to email patrick@usaclimbing.org to confirm attendance.
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About USA Climbing
USA Climbing is the national governing body for competitive climbing in the United States, supporting athletes, coaches, and events across the country. As a nonprofit organization, USA Climbing’s mission is to promote the growth and development of climbing while advocating for the sport’s values of inclusivity, sportsmanship, and environmental responsibility.
For media questions, please contact:
Patrick Bodnar | Marketing & Communications Director | patrick@usaclimbing.org
To learn more about USA Climbing, visit usaclimbing.org.
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