Midlands Youth Climbing Series gets 2026 season underway in Northampton

​​​​Over 200 competitors took part across the day, with categories ranging from U11 through to U21. The event ran across three start times, allowing each age group to compete in a relaxed but well structured environment.

A team of six route setters prepared the competition blocs in advance, producing a wide range of problems that tested technique, strength and problem solving. Each competitor attempted eight boulders, with up to five attempts per problem.

For this round, the setting team were supported by a loan of modern holds and volumes from Core Climbing, helping to create a varied and contemporary set of competition problems across all categories.

One of the standout moments of the day came in the U15 Female category, where an exceptional 12 climbers topped all of their problems, resulting in a dramatic climb off to decide podium places.

Simon Ager, Managing Director of The Pinnacle Bouldering Centre, said:

“It was amazing to see so many talented young climbers experiencing our facility in Weston Favell Shopping Centre for the first time. The route setters worked their magic and created great climbs that really made the competition a success. The ability and enthusiasm shown by kids of all ages was inspiring, and we cannot wait to introduce even more people to this wonderful sport. Maybe one of them will go on to represent Team GB in a future Olympic Games.”

Penny Jones Mackay, Organiser and Head Judge of the MY Climbing Series, added:

“The first round of MY Climbing Series 2026 at The Pinnacle Bouldering Centre went brilliantly. Over 200 competitors battled it out for podium places. The venue did a superb job of hosting, with excellent route setting and a huge range of quality modern holds and volumes. Everyone left Northampton excited for the next round in two weeks’ time.”

Round 1 marked a strong start to the 2026 MYCS season, continuing the series’ role in supporting youth development and competitive progression within UK climbing. Further rounds will take place at venues across the region over the coming weeks.