Given the dynamic nature of the coronavirus pandemic, Climbing Escalade Canada (CEC) has been continually reviewing the feasibility of a 2020-2021 National Competition Season. At their meeting on January 13, 2021, the Board of Directors made the decision to cancel the remainder of the 2020-2021 National Season, which had Regional and National events tentatively scheduled for May 2021.
In October 2020, the CEC cancelled the first portion of the 2020-2021 season, and remained hopeful that the second portion, including events in May of 2021, could take place safely. With the growing numbers of new infections across the country and many provinces declaring States of Emergency, it is apparent that it would not be safe for our athletes, coaches, officials, and other participants to travel and compete on the National stage.
CEC will strike a Competition Task Force to determine alternative and innovative options that allow athletes to return to competition sooner rather than later. A new Competition Calendar and Format for the 2021-2022 Competition Season will be presented to the community in the upcoming months, which may include events in the fall of 2021, should it safe to stage events.
The CEC confirms that the 2021 High Performance Program is not affected by the decision to cancel the 2020-2021 National Season, and the 2021 High Performance Program will be implemented with appropriate measures in place based on the current environment. As the IFSC confirms feasibility of hosting 2021 World Cups and World Championships, CEC will determine Canada’s participation in these events, with our priority remaining the safety of Canadian athletes and their community.
CEC asks the Canadian climbing community to consider supporting our continued efforts to conduct the affairs of the CEC and launch important initiatives and programs in 2021 by purchasing a 2020-2021 Supporter License.
