This year it was the first time in the climbing history that a European Youth Chamionship was held. It took place in Gémozac (France) and our cheerful Belgian team was present with not less than 17 climbers.

On Saturday the qualifications of the A and Junior categories started early in the morning. My first route was  technical with very small holds. I found it difficult and tricky and I was very happy that I managed to top the route. To my surprise the other one was built on the speed wall which made it very technical as well. Together with twelve other girls I could top the route.

Photo: Thibaud Caulier

Five Belgian climbers  made it to the finals: Chloé Caulier (female youth A), Émilie Guérit (female Juniors), Loïc Timmermans (male youth A), Sébastien Berthe (male Juniors) and me! That was already a great achievement! Unfortunately our youth B climbers were not able to reach the finals. My friend Celine Cuypers (female youth B) had to climb the same qualification routes as me. They were both very technical on vertical walls which was not nice for a competition. She was nervous because of the routes and it is a pitty that she ended up 19th although she is an incredibly strong climber.

The finals were on the same day in the evening. When waiting in the call zone we could hear the cheers of the public for Ana Tiripa (GER) which meant she climbed super well and topped the final route. Just before me Jessica Pilz (AUT) topped too and then it was my turn to climb. Although I did not find a rest in the middle of the route, I managed to top out! I ended up 3rd because of the new time-rule for European youth competitions, but I was still very happy and thankful with my place. Ana was 2nd and Jessica was 1st! Congratulations!

Photo: Thibaud Caulier

Loïc Timmermans climbed a fantastic final and became European Champion! Émilie and Sébastien both ended up 10th and Chloé 9th. The Belgian team had a 5th place in the teamranking!