Picky Centre named one of eight Scottish venues for national climbing competition

The Pickaquoy Centre has been selected as one of the eight venues across Scotland to host the Scottish Schools Climbing Competition qualifying rounds.

There are four age categories — P5-7, S1-2, S3-4, S5-6 — and competitors can participate at any time between November 5 and December 24, when the leisure centre’s climbing wall is available for public or climbing club sessions. New routes will be specifically set up for the competition.

Entry to compete is free, although normal wall charges apply, and anyone in the age categories can compete, whether they are a beginner or experienced. Equipment will also be provided. Competitors can just turn up at the climbing sessions, and the climbing supervisors will explain the rules.

Ian Rendall, the centre’s senior climbing instructor, and Ella Spence have been working with the Mountaineering Council of Scotland to secure the Pickaquoy Centre as one of the locations and recognises this competition as a significant development for youth climbing in Orkney.

He said: “Junior climbing is very popular at the centre and over the last year we’ve registered over 70 young people for the National Indoor Climbing Award Scheme (NICAS), which is great for a small island.

“This scheme gives them a chance to work towards developing their technique, and now this is a great opportunity to give them a taste of competition. I’d encourage as many young people as possible to have a go, and just enjoy the opportunity and the experience.”