KATHMANDU, NOVEMBER 24

Ranak Upreti and Rachel Davidson emerged as champions in the 'Musa Masala Open Lead Climbing Competition – 2024,' held at the Kathmandu Sports Climbing Center (KSCC) on Saturday.

The event, organized by Wongchhu Peak Promotion, featured a total of 32 participants from both domestic and international backgrounds.

In the men's category, Ranak Upreti won the title, while Vincent Sablich took the runner-up spot. Pemba Tsewang Sherpa secured third place.

In the women's category, Rachel Davidson claimed the top position, followed by Swastika Chaudhary in second place, and Anne Mai Baan in third.

The event was officially recognized by the Nepal Mountaineering Sports Association (NMSA) and adhered to the rules and standards set by the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA).

Technical support for the event was provided by the Nepal National Mountain Guides Association (NNMGA).

Winners, runners-up, and third-place finishers received cash prizes of Rs 35,000, Rs 25,000, and Rs 15,000, respectively, along with various other gifts. The completion was judged by IFMGA guides and climbers including Pasang Kidar Sherpa, Naren Shahi Thakuri, Tshering Pandey Bhote and Pancha Maya Tamang.

The title sponsor of the event was Musa Masala, with several other sponsors supporting the competition, according to Lakpa Sherpa, Managing Director at Wongchu Peak Promotion.

Mike Ji, founder of Musa Masala, said that Musa Masala always focused on supporting Nepali communities in need. 'We have been supporting Wongchu Sherpa Memorial Hospital, health practitioners as well as adventure enthusiasts in Nepal,' he said.

According to him, the non-profit organisation is creating an adventurous outdoor community focused on safe, healthy and culturally aware wilderness activities while prioritizing projects for healthcare and education in Nepal.