Throughout the weeklong youth event that welcomed climbers from across the globe, World Climbing provided educational sessions focused on topics that young climbers may encounter in their sporting life.

The sessions on integrity, health and nutrition, safeguarding and clean sport were given by World Climbing delegates and external companies with extensive knowledge of each topic.

Integrity workshop for athletes 

Led by Andrew Whittingham, Head of Education at Sportradar Integrity Services, the session covered topics such as competition manipulation, responsible use of social media, respect for the rules of conduct, and how to recognise and respond to situations that may threaten the integrity of sport.

Through practical examples and discussions, athletes gained the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions and contribute to a fair, safe, and values-driven sporting environment.

Clean Sport education 

In collaboration with the International Testing Agency (ITA), a dedicated anti-doping session was delivered, and an information booth was set up to allow athletes to ask any questions in a more relaxed setting. The activities provided practical guidance on athletes’ rights and responsibilities, testing procedures, and key anti-doping rules, while promoting values-based education on fair play and integrity. Everything was tailored to youth athletes, coaches, and parents to ensure clear understanding and responsible behaviours from an early stage. 

Armando Urban, ITA Education Officer said: “Every athlete deserves to compete on a level playing field, and that starts with understanding that every decision matters.

“Knowing your rights and responsibilities and taking the time to check every medication and supplement before using it is essential to making informed decisions and avoiding unintentional anti-doping rule violations. Education gives athletes the confidence to protect their health, safeguard their careers, and compete with integrity.

“It was inspiring to see such an engaged group of climbers who were eager to learn, ask questions, and strengthen their commitment to clean sport.”

Growing Athlete Workshop: Injuries, RED-S, & Nutrition

World Climbing Youth Championship Medical Delegate, Dr Krystle R. Tuano hosted an interactive workshop on paediatric injuries, fractures, and Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport (REDs) to help athletes, coaches, medical support staff, and parents better understand how to support healthy growth in young climbers.

The session provided practical information on recognising injuries and fractures specific to the growing athlete, understanding the warning signs of REDs, the role of nutrition in supporting bone health and development, and the principles of healthy competition.

Through practical examples and discussion, participants could gain the knowledge needed to protect young climbers today while laying a strong foundation for long-term health, performance, and longevity in the sport.

Safeguarding in sport: creating safe environments for young athletes

In a session led by Andrea Vaccaro, who is a safeguarding officer across multiple sports and organisations, the focus was on raising awareness of safe sport principles, recognising and preventing harmful behaviours, and promoting a culture of respect and protection within climbing. 

World Climbing will continue to hold education and information sessions and programmes throughout their youth events and thanks everyone who contributed to their success and all attendees who participated.