Oaklands climbing centre will be hosting a major competition for seven-15 year olds on Saturday 10 March.  The British Mountaineering Council's Youth Climbing Series (BRYCS), which is now in its ninth year, has chosen Oaklands as one of its regional hosts for the event. 

The fun competition will be split into three age categories with separate groups for boys and girls so that everyone has the chance to climb with people of the same age and experience. The action starts at 10.00am with registration half an hour before, and climbers will have the chance to attempt boulder problems as well as climbing routes. 

Competitors have to enter at least two of the regional rounds (the other competitions being held in Leeds and Huddersfield) to be able to qualify for the National Final in Edinburgh in June.

Already over 25 young people have entered with competitors coming from as far as Whitby, Halifax and Huddersfield.  Although the deadline for entries has formally passed, interested applicants can still complete application forms from the British Mountaineering Council's website and pay an entrance fee from £3 on the day.  All entrants must have some climbing experience, and spectators are welcome.

Jonathan Richardson, Oaklands' community climbing instructor, said: "It's great that this event is coming to York's new climbing centre.  We have lots of children's climbing courses, birthday parties and regular clubs for young people, so its fantastic to have an opportunity where young people can show off their skills in a fun and competitive environment."  

Anyone who is interested in entering should visit www.thebmc.co.uk or telephone 0870 010 4878 for further information.  Entrants are responsible for providing personal climbing equipment but some is available to hire from Oaklands (call 01904 552424 to check).