KATHMANDU, MAY 26
The third edition of the Tenzing Norgay Sherpa Open Lead Climbing Competition is set to take place at Astrek Climbing Wall in Thamel on May 28 and 29, jointly organised by the US Nepal Climbers Association (USNCA) and the Nepal National Mountain Guide Association (NNMGA), with the final round timed to coincide with Everest Day on May 29, the 73rd anniversary of the first ascent of the world's highest peak.
This year's edition marks a significant upgrade from previous editions: while the first two competitions were limited to top-rope climbing, participants will this time compete in lead climbing, a technically more demanding format requiring climbers to clip their rope into anchors as they ascend without a pre-fixed top rope.
The competition will be held in two separate categories, men and women. Cash prizes of Rs 50,000, Rs 30,000, and Rs 20,000 will be awarded to first, second, and third place finishers in each category, along with medals.
As of the latest update, 22 men and 10 women have registered, with organisers expecting around 40 male and 15 female participants by the close of registration.
NNMGA President Tulsi Singh Gurung said the decision to hold the final on May 29 is deliberate, a sporting tribute to the historic day in 1953 when Tenzing Norgay Sherpa and Sir Edmund Hillary became the first climbers to stand atop Mount Everest. "Everest Day has largely been marked by rallies, formal seminars, and certificate distributions. This competition connects that historic legacy to sport and adventure," Gurung said.
