Disabled rock climbers are enthusiastically welcoming the debut of para-climbing in the Paralympics, starting at the 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics.
For the first time, para climbing is included in the Paralympic program and eight events are competed in at the Long Beach Climbing Theater.
As many as 80 athletes from various countries are expected to take part in the Paralympic debut of sport climbing.
"Hopefully it will be an incredible competition," said four-time world champion Solenne Piret of France on paralympic.org on Tuesday.
For American athlete Brian Zarzuela, performing in front of his own crowd is a rare opportunity.
"When the announcement came, a new spirit immediately emerged. It felt like a big goal was ahead," said Zarzuela, who has competed in three world championships.
