GRUPPER, SEO PLACE ATOP THE LEAD QUALIFICATION RANKINGS IN BRIANÇON

The ninth stage of the International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC) World Cup Series 2022 opened this morning at the Parc Des Sports in Briançon, France, where 165 climbers – 92 men and 73 women – gathered to compete in their fourth Lead event of the season.

Despite falling short of the top in both routes, two-time World Cup medallist Jesse Grupper of the USA finished in first place in the men’s qualification round, followed by Japan’s Yoshida Satone and Germany’s Alexander Megos.

The winner of last year’s Lead World Cup trophy – Stefano Ghisolfi of Italy – placed 10^th and advanced to the semi-final round.

For the men’s Lead qualification full results click here.

The women’s qualification routes also proved to be extremely challenging, with only two climbers – Seo Chaehyun of South Korea and Janja Garnbret of Slovenia – being able to secure one top. Eventually, the Korean 18-year-old placed ahead of Garnbret thanks to a better score on route number 1.

Another strong Lead specialist followed in third place: Laura Rogora of Italy; while US duo Brooke Raboutou and Natalia Grossman respectively placed fourth and fifth.

For the women’s Lead qualification full results click here.

The men’s and women’s Lead semi-final will take place tonight, beginning at 8:00 PM (UTC+2:00). Finals are scheduled for tomorrow: the men’s one will commence at 8:00 PM, followed by the women’s one.

News and updates about the events will be available on the IFSC website, and on the Federation’s social media channels: Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter.