Climbing Escalade Canada (CEC) is proud to announce the athletes who will represent Canada at the 2026 World Climbing Youth Championships in Arco, Italy, from July 18–25, 2026.
These talented young climbers earned their place on Team Canada through outstanding performances at the 2026 Youth National Championships in the Boulder, Lead, and Speed disciplines. They will join the world’s best youth athletes in one of the sport’s most iconic venues, competing against the next generation of international climbing stars.
Representing Canada in Arco are:
- Anabelle Gonthier, QC (Boulder, Lead, Speed)
- Antoine Caron, QC (Boulder)
- Ashley Kam (Wai Ching), BC (Lead, Speed)
- Avery Macdonald, BC (Boulder, Lead, Speed)
- Bruce Kong, BC (Speed)
- Dayvi Strell, BC (Speed)
- Emile Aubin, QC (Boulder, Lead)
- Emily Shi, Canada (Lead)
- Grayson Kenny, ON (Boulder)
- Iyla Behrns, AB (Speed)
- Jack Vanderheide, BC (Boulder, Lead)
- Jasper Selda, BC (Boulder, Lead)
- Julia Kovats, BC (Speed)
- Mia Thompson, ON (Boulder, Lead)
- Nicolas Arteau, QC (Boulder, Lead)
- Noah Schwartz, BC (Lead)
- Norah Kelly Bou, QC (Boulder)
- Olivier Turgeon, QC (Lead)
- Peter Stokoe, ON (Speed)
- Ryan Nolen Bou, QC (Speed)
- Sam Corsi, BC (Speed)
- Sienna Chow, BC (Boulder, Lead)
- Sofia Smale, QC (Boulder)
- Victor Sitar, BC (Speed)
These athletes represent the future of climbing in Canada. Through their dedication, perseverance, and passion for the sport, they have earned the opportunity to compete on the world stage and showcase Canadian excellence in Boulder, Lead, and Speed climbing.
The World Climbing Youth Championships are a key milestone in the athlete development pathway, bringing together the most promising young climbers from around the globe. Many of today’s elite international athletes began their journeys at this event, making it an exciting opportunity for Canada’s rising stars to gain valuable experience and test themselves against the world’s best.
Climbing Escalade Canada extends its congratulations to all selected athletes, as well as to the coaches, families, clubs, and provincial organizations who have supported them along the way.
We look forward to following Team Canada’s journey in Arco and cheering them on as they represent our country with pride. Their performances this summer are only the beginning, and we are excited to watch them continue to shape the future of Canadian climbing for years to come.
Good luck, Team Canada!

