Vandenhoven's Joy Fuels Success at IFSC Para Climbing World Cup 2025

Innsbruck, Austria - The 2025 International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC) Para Climbing World Cup commenced on June 23, 2025, with a remarkable turnout of 236 athletes competing across 20 different sport classes. This event marks a significant milestone in the evolution of para climbing, showcasing increased participation from countries worldwide, including the debut of El Salvador and Iceland in the competition.

Belgian athlete Pavitra Vandenhoven emerged as a standout competitor during the opening event in Salt Lake City, where she made history by securing a bronze medal in the mixed category. Competing alongside established climbers such as Austria's Angelino Zeller and Markus Pösendorfer, Vandenhoven described the experience as exhilarating, stating, "It was such an exciting experience! At first, I didn’t really know what to expect. The men are incredibly strong – many of them are my climbing idols... to compete as one category group for the first time was just amazing" (Vandenhoven, 2025).

The surge in participation in para climbing can be attributed to various factors, including increased visibility and support from organizations such as the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) and the IFSC. According to a report by the IPC, the number of participating nations in para sports has doubled in the past decade, reflecting a broader commitment to inclusivity in athletics (IPC, 2023).

Vandenhoven shared her personal journey in the sport, highlighting the importance of mental resilience alongside physical training. "In the past, I used to focus more on my physical training and less on the mental aspect. But lately, that’s shifted. Because of some personal struggles, the more insecure version of myself has started to show up again. But I’m working on that," she explained, emphasizing her current approach to balance both physical and mental preparation (Vandenhoven, 2025).

As the competition in Innsbruck heats up, with 148 male and 87 female athletes registered, the stakes are high. The event will feature qualifications on June 23 at 09:00 (UTC+2:00) and finals scheduled for June 24 at 16:30 local time. Vandenhoven expressed her excitement for the upcoming challenges, stating, "My biggest goal for Innsbruck is simply to enjoy the competition and give it my all. Of course, making the podium would be amazing, but after everything, my main focus is to climb in a way that feels truly connected – to be one with the wall again" (Vandenhoven, 2025).

The world of para climbing not only celebrates athletic prowess but also fosters a sense of community among climbers from diverse backgrounds. The inclusion of new nations and the ongoing support from governing bodies signal a promising future for the sport. With Seoul set to host the IFSC Climbing and Para Climbing World Championships in September 2025, climbers like Vandenhoven are gearing up for an exciting season filled with opportunities for excellence and personal growth.

As the IFSC Para Climbing World Cup continues, it serves not only as a platform for athletic competition but also as a celebration of resilience, determination, and the joy of climbing. The global community watches closely as athletes strive for success, with the potential for groundbreaking achievements on the horizon.