SUMMER OF CLIMB BOSTON

On a sunny day at the Boston Bouldering Project, climbers and enthusiasts gathered for the first-ever ARC’TERYX x JACKALOPE Summer of Climb. The event turned the venue into a buzzing hub of activity, featuring a bouldering competition with $10,000 in prizes, a lively vendor village, and a festive atmosphere thanks to DJs and local food stalls.

Three categories were offered: Open, Citizens, and Showcase Round, with highlights like the knockout round and a fun rock-paper-scissors game to determine the finalists. Four climbers also earned Golden Tickets for the Arc’teryx Academy event in Squamish in August 2024.

The podium for the Citizens categories

Advanced: Thomas Ang / Olivia Perez / Mikeal Van Mierlo
Intermediate: Alisa Shirkalina / Daniel Kim / Timmy Tsai
Beginner: Yin Min Goh / Patrick Kitchen / Rory Joyce

In the Open category

Women: Kylie Cullen / Sienna Kopf / Helen Gillett
Men: Ross Fulkerson / Adam Shahar / Charlie Barron

A resounding success for this first edition!

ARC’TERYX ACADEMY SQUAMISH

From August 23 to 25, the four Golden Ticket winners (Marielle Horstmann, Maya Madere, Charlie Barron, and Adam Shahar) joined the Arc’teryx Adademy event in Squamish for an unforgettable experience. Over three days, they met athletes, attended talks and film screenings, and enjoyed the festive evening parties.

They tackled bouldering sessions while participating in various activities: food trucks, concerts, Arc’teryx innovations, and the ReBIRD™ program. On August 24, they took part in the DYNO competition, attracting a crowd under the sunny skies.

The event concluded with the awarding of three Golden Tickets for JACKALOPE Montréal, happening from September 13 to 15.

Check out our exclusive interviews with the three winners!

Sofie KING

At 17 years old, Sofie from North Vancouver has been passionate about climbing since she was 11. For Sofie, climbing is much more than just a sport—”it’s a true way of life” She attributes her most beautiful experiences and friendships to this sport, including the unforgettable moments she shared with friends last summer in Squamish.

Sofie particularly admires Janja Garnbret, the double Olympic gold medalist, whom she considers her role model: “When I competed in the Youth World Championships, I made it my mission to get a Slovenian jersey, and I did!” She has ambitious goals, such as returning to the Youth European Championship in 2025 and eventually joining the national team.

Throughout her career, she has overcome significant challenges, such as developing her physical strength and power on the wall. She will be participating in JACKALOPE Montréal, where she will undoubtedly follow her rituals: “I always wear a lucky top and shorts to most competitions. I also have many positive superstitious rituals, like getting a good night’s sleep throughout the week before major competitions!”

“When I got the Golden Ticket in Squamish after the DYNO competition, I was so shocked and excited—it’s a rare opportunity to be invited with all expenses paid. What made it even more thrilling was that one of my best friends, Caiya, also received a ticket, and we’ll be going to JACKALOPE Montréal together”

Marielle HORSTMANN

Marielle’s story is that of a young woman whose passion for climbing drives her life, allowing her to balance personal ambition with academic challenges. A dedicated and passionate climber, Marielle has been immersed in climbing since childhood, offering her both physical challenges and deep personal satisfaction.

Marielle particularly enjoys the adrenaline of competitions and the uncertainty of the routes, which stimulate her mind and strengthen her determination: “My favorite climbing style is outdoor sport climbing; I love the feeling of fatigue and not always knowing what to expect on the route… I believe that climbing has profoundly impacted my personality, making me braver and more determined to pursue my goals. I also think that training for competitions has made me more disciplined and motivated. The climbing community has also made me more sociable and open; I feel so lucky to have grown up in a community of people who share my passion”

Her greatest role model remains her sister Bimini, who introduced her to the sport and has shaped her journey.

Marielle aspires to keep climbing as an integral part of her life, even as she is still figuring out her exact role. She dreams of climbing in Céüse, France, a goal that motivates her greatly. However, balancing her passion with full-time studies has made training and competition preparation challenging.

Despite these hurdles, Marielle continues to progress by being kind to herself and accepting that not always being at her best is part of the process. “I have many small rituals before competitions, but the one that helps me the most is visualizing a time when I felt confident and happy with my climbing and trying to channel that version of myself during the competition”

“I felt so lucky to receive a golden ticket for JACKALOPE Montréal; I’m really excited for this event!”

Caiya TAINSLIE

For Caiya, climbing has had a profound impact on her life. It has become a means of expression through movement and a space of comfort and confidence.

Caiya is a climber whose passion and dedication to climbing continue to guide her in her adventures and future goals: “The climbing gym has always been a place where I felt extremely comfortable and confident. The community I’ve had the chance to grow up with at Gneiss has truly witnessed every step of my life so far, and I’m so grateful to the gym and the team for the support they’ve given me!”

To achieve her ambitious goals, such as climbing V12 and reaching a final in a North American Cup, Caiya draws inspiration from her mentors and particularly admires Stasa Gejo: “She expresses herself extremely well. It’s super interesting to hear her experiences and opinions about the World Cup circuit”

Caiya has overcome a significant fear of lead climbing. Initially terrified, she gained confidence through practice, demonstrating her determination and ability to face her fears.

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A heartfelt thank you goes out toall the partners, media teams, and vendors who made these events possible. Special thanks Arc’teryx, and Arc’teryx Boston, Arc’teryx Academy, Arc’teryx BC, to the Boston Bouldering Project for their incredible support. Our media partners, including Betabreakerz for the live streaming, Tribu Experientiel for the video highlights, as well as MC Pete Woods for keeping the energy high, all played a crucial role in these successes.

As we look back on these unforgettable two weekends, we’re already excited for what’s next. Stay tuned for more climbing adventures and community celebrations. Until then, keep climbing high and living the adventure!

Get ready for JACKALOPE Montréal from September 13 to 15! Don’t miss out—these three remarkable athletes are sure to make a splash at this must-attend event