St. Louis residents enjoyed a unique outdoor spectacle Friday as the International Tree Climbing Championship marked its 50th anniversary in a local park. Almost 100 arborists, dressed in helmets and rope harnesses, scaled pine, sweetgum and oak trees, turning the canopy into a lively arena of competition and camaraderie.
International competitors and event lineup
Participants hailed from 22 nations, each demonstrating the precision and agility required of professional arborists. Over three days, climbers tackled four main events: the belayed speed climb, aerial rescue, work climb, and ascent/throwline challenges. Spectators in camping chairs cheered as competitors raced up 80‑ to 100‑foot trunks, swung from branches and located a dummy during the rescue drill.
Highlights from the competition
E.J. Turner, a third‑generation climber and five‑time Midwest chapter champion, described the work climb as the most rewarding. “It’s a lot more climbing involved, and a lot more movement throughout the tree, jumping and swinging,” Turner said. “It’s kind of like being a kid.” The work climb requires athletes to scramble through the canopy, ringing bells at branch ends to simulate cuts an arborist would make on the job. Judges score participants on speed, route planning and poise.
Community spirit and tradition
Caitlyn Pollihan, CEO of the nonprofit International Society of Arboriculture, highlighted the event’s role in educating the public about arborist work. “The championship shows what arborists do in their day‑to‑day jobs,” she said. With 52 men and 39 women competing, many have faced each other in previous contests, fostering a “fascinating camaraderie” that Pollihan says is unexpected in a competition setting.
The championship’s roots run deep in St. Louis. The inaugural International Tree Climbing Championship was hosted in the city in 1976, and organizers chose the same location this year as a tribute to that history. To mark the milestone, speeches and commemorative keepsakes are planned throughout the weekend.
Family‑friendly atmosphere
The event attracted families, school groups and local outdoor enthusiasts. Children watched wide‑eyed as climbers navigated the treetops, while volunteers provided safety briefings and information booths about tree care and conservation. The sunny, blue‑sky backdrop made for a perfect setting, encouraging community members to appreciate both the sport and the importance of healthy urban trees.
Looking ahead
Competitors with the highest combined scores will advance to the Masters’ Challenge, the final round of the championship. Beyond the competition, the International Society of Arboriculture hopes the event will inspire more young people to consider careers in arboriculture and promote safe tree‑working practices nationwide.
For those interested in future events, the Society plans to rotate the championship to different host cities, continuing the tradition of showcasing the skill, dedication and teamwork of arborists around the world.
Original reporting: Alexandria, VA News – WTOP News — read the source article.
