Scaling Greater Heights

Introduction

The National Primary Schools Sport Climbing Championships (NPSSCC), organized by Hougang Primary School concluded at the end of Semester 1 with resounding success. The event was supported by the Singapore Sport Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (SSCMF), the National Sports Association for Sport Climbing and Xinmin Secondary School. The competition brought together 68 schools and 438 young competitors, showcasing their impressive climbing skills while highlighting their exceptional character, resilience, and sportsmanship. The event not only emphasized physical abilities but also served as a platform for character education and personal growth among the participants.

The Journey of the NPSSCC

The NPSSCC, initiated in 2012 with eight schools and 116 competitors, has grown over the years to encompass 68 schools and 438 competitors across all divisions. The championships have witnessed past competitors achieving success and representing the nation in international competitions, demonstrating the long-term impact and growth of sport climbing in Singapore.

Secretary General of SSCMF, Mr. Rasip Isnin, expressed delight in being part of the NPSSCC. “It is our pleasure to be part of the NPSSCC and we will continue to work with Hougang Primary School to make the event a major climbing event within the primary school scene. Hopefully the NPSSCC will be a catalyst towards the inclusion of Sport Climbing into the National School Games.”

The Impact of Climbing on Character Development

NPSSCC showcased the remarkable climbing abilities of the young competitors. It also highlighted their resilience, sportsmanship, and character development. The climbers exhibited a high level of determination and perseverance, overcoming challenging routes and obstacles with grit and tenacity. More importantly, they supported and encouraged one another, fostering a spirit of camaraderie and friendship despite being from different schools.

Mr Keat Chow, one of the many supportive parents of the climbers, highlighted the positive impact of climbing on her children. “We can see how climbing has given our kids confidence in their physical and mental ability to solve problems, as well as the resilience to try again after literally falling (off the wall) multiple times. Climbing also has a social and communal dimension to it that may not be obvious to the casual observer. Mutual encouragement between climbing partners and competitors is something special about sport climbing culture that epitomises sportsmanship and teaches our children that the success of others does not determine our own success or failure.” She also commended the inclusive nature of climbing, as both boys and girls can participate and compete together, and the reasonable accessibility of climbing facilities, making it a sport within reach for many Singaporean families.

Impressive Youth Development

Climbing Coach Winson Teo highlighted the fantastic experience the youth gained by participating in a national-level competition. “To have such an experience at a young age was immensely precious. These young athletes were able to build confidence, exercise sportsmanship, and learn from their success or failures.”

Acknowledging the Support System

The success of the competition would not have been possible without the unwavering support of teachers, parents, and coaches. Their dedication to the development and growth of the young climbers was evident throughout the event, providing guidance, encouragement, and support. The teachers and coaches played a crucial role in guiding the climbers to rise to the challenge, building resilience, and striving for improvement.

Inspiration and Future Prospects

The NPSSCC served as an inspiration to all who witnessed the exceptional performances of the young climbers. Their high standards of skill and proficiency demonstrated the countless hours of practice and training they had invested. The event not only celebrated their achievements but also provided a glimpse into their potential for future success.

Conclusion

Finally, it is worth noting the high standards that the young climbers set for themselves. The level of skill and proficiency on display was truly impressive, and it was evident that the competitors had put in countless hours of practice and training to reach this level. They were truly an inspiration to all of us who had the privilege of witnessing their performances.

Overall, the Sport Climbing competition was an incredible event that showcased the best of the young climbers. They demonstrated remarkable character, resilience, and sportsmanship, and they should be proud of their achievements. We look forward to seeing these young athletes continue to push themselves to scale greater heights in the future.

Catch all the action here! https://tinyurl.com/npsscc2023videos

Videos credit: @climbingfamiliescollective

Photos credit: Kai Reuber

Contributed by:

Kassidy is the Head of Department of Physical and Outdoor Education and CCA of Hougang Primary School. He is passionate about the outdoors and believes that every child should be given the opportunity to experience the joy of learning.