It is all systems go for Western Cape Climbing as they prepare to host the African Championships from 17 to 20 December at City Rock in Paardeneiland.

The best of Africa will be competing for the continent’s two places – one for a male and one for a female climber – at next year’s Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan. But they would be required to produce their best performances without the support of their family and friends, as no spectators will be allowed.

Chris Naude, president of Western Cape Climbing, said the fact that there will be no spectators is a game changer. We wanted to use this tournament as a showpiece for climbing in South Africa but without spectators that is difficult.

We will, however, make sure that we do not disappoint our loyal supporters and we will make sure that we put plans in place for a proper live streaming experience. We will get it properly filmed and live streamed so that people can follow the action from the comfort of their homes.

Chris again thanked the Western Cape Provincial Sport Confederation (WCPSC) for their support and assistance, particularly with dealing with the challenges brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic.

I want to thank JP Naude (WCPSC president) and his team. We have been meeting once a month about how to make sure we are ready to handle the Covid-19 requirements and adhere to all the regulations.

It is not a particularly difficult thing though, as we have only 20 males and 8 female participants, so it is not a complicated Covid-19 ready plan because of the lower number of competitors. It is not as difficult as, for instance, a rugby tournament.

We have a small number of people participating one at a time. Only one climber goes up at a time, so the nature of our competition lends itself to easy Covid-19 compliance.

The Western Cape will have four males and four female climbers in the South African team.

The Competition is organised by Western Cape Climbing, a registered NPO/PBO with the support of the City of Cape Town. Any queries can be directed directly to chairman@climbafrica2020.co.za

For more information about climbing in the Western Cape, visit www.westerncapeclimbing.co.za