12 Nov. 2016- Lebanon’s climbers have collaborated with a piece of Beirut’s history, by conquering the wall of a striking structure in the city: Al Kamal Building
“Climbing this façade was a mental exercise rather than a physical exercise. You had to push yourself to keep going, regardless of how drained your body was feeling. It was the only way, to keep climbing”. Georges Emil’s mindset has led him to victory.
Red Bull Civil Wall – Photo by: Akl Yazbeck
Red Bull Civil Wall is a first-of-its-kind urban climbing competition, in Lebanon and abroad. Climbing a 35 meters riddled building with a required of 90 moves was the challenge. Technical director, Read Macadam, designed a safe route for the contestants, after testing the wall and its individual holes and windows.
Fifty-two participants – men and women, old and young, first-time and professional climbers- came together. They had one common goal, to climb that wall and experience a new dimension to the sport. Three rounds took place, with 15 participants advancing to the second round and only 5 participants proceeding to the final and toughest round.
During the first two rounds, climbers had to reach a set point on the building over a set time: 1.5 minute for the first round and 2 minutes for the second round. Throughout the final round however, contestants needed to make it to the top for the fastest time possible.
Red Bull Civil Wall – Photo by: Akl Yazbeck
[Red Bull F1 Racing Car met the beauty of Lebanon]
Strength, stamina, and above all a positive frame of mind were necessary for the climb. Every crossed obstacle was a positive achievement, a personal experience felt by the climbers. Scars of the past were the holds and footsteps towards the way to the top, towards the moment of relief and accomplishment.
After 4 hours of determination and dedication, the 3 fastest climbers to make it to the top were announced.
Nicolas Saadeh came in third with a time of 3 minutes 8 seconds while Edgar Azzi came in second, with a time of 2 minutes and 58 seconds. Georges Emil was the fastest, climbing 35 meters over a time of 2 minutes and 41 seconds.
Red Bull Civil Wall – Photo by: Akl Yazbeck
Lebanon’s climbers gathered during this event to do what they love most, to follow their passion, to get out of their comfort zone and leave with a fresh outlook and a feeling of empowerment. It wasn’t just about winning; it was about the appreciation for the sport.
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