The third edition of the Tenzing Norgay Sherpa Open Lead Climbing Competition concluded in Kathmandu on Friday, bringing together top climbing athletes from Nepal and abroad in a celebration of adventure sports and mountaineering culture.
Organized jointly by the Nepal National Mountain Guide Association (NNMGA) and the US Nepal Climbers Association Inc., the event featured competitive lead climbing contests in both men’s and women’s categories.
Nepali and International Climbers Shine
In the men’s division, Nepal’s Ronak Upreti emerged as champion after delivering a strong performance in the final round. International climber Mirko Leros secured second place, while Tenzing Bertin Rai finished third.
Similarly, Swastika Chaudhari claimed the top spot in the women’s category. Yanckeela Sherpa finished as runner-up, and Panchamaya Tamang secured third position.
Cash Prizes Awarded to Winners
The organizers awarded cash prizes to the top three winners in both categories, with first-place winners receiving Rs 50,000, second-place finishers Rs 30,000, and third-place athletes Rs 20,000.
The closing ceremony was attended by several prominent figures from Nepal’s tourism and mountaineering sectors. Member of the House of Representatives Mingma Gyabu Sherpa attended the event as chief guest, while Jamling Tenzing Norgay, son of legendary mountaineer Tenzing Norgay Sherpa, joined as special guest.
Prominent Figures Attend Closing Ceremony
Among other attendees were Director General of the Department of Tourism Ram Krishna Lamichhane, Nepal Mountaineering Association President Phur Gelje Sherpa, US Nepal Climbers Association Inc. chapter coordinator Lachhuman Tamang, and Nepal Climbing Sports Association General Secretary Santosh Maden.
Organizers said the competition aims to promote climbing sports in Nepal and encourage young athletes to pursue professional climbing and mountaineering.
