Today the Children’s rock festival, timed to coincide with the International Children’s Day and the 50th anniversary of the development of mountaineering in Turkmenistan was held in Ashgabat. The event, organized at the artificial climbing wall by the “Agama” Mountaineering Club with the support of the Magtymguly Children’s Fund of the Youth Union of Turkmenistan, gathered over 135 participants.

The artificial climbing wall – a wall with special holds – is adapted for climbing by children of different ages, heights and physical abilities, who are united by the desire to try themselves on artificial rocks, improve their physical fitness and skill level. The question was not that someone must win. Children under the age of 14 tried their hand at rock climbing. In an effort to get to the finish line of each track, they stubbornly clung to suitable holds on the sheer walls. The task was complicated by the inclination of artificial rocks and the degree of complexity of the routes.

Attentive judges and experienced climbers skilfully insured younger comrades. Some participants tried their hand at this sport for the first time, but this did not prevent them from achieving good results in their attempts to conquer.

“Rock climbing is in the top 20 most popular sports. Moreover, it is an Olympic sport. Our children have all the physical and volitional qualities necessary for mountaineering. Confirmation of this is our today’s festival. Despite the difficulties, even the smallest participants tried again and achieved what they wanted. Therefore, with the proper development of this sport, we have every chance to bring up worthy athletes”, said Valery Kotvin, Chairman of the Board of the “Agama” Alpine Club.