FROM STAFF REPORTS

NORTH SHELBY – High Point Climbing and Fitness Birmingham will host an Adaptive Climbing Clinic with Catalyst Sports to launch their Birmingham Chapter from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday, Nov. 11.

The free event is designed to help people living with amputations, cerebral palsy, spinal injuries, visual impairment or any other physical disabilities.

The new Birmingham Chapter will be Catalyst Sports’ first chapter in Alabama.

“We couldn’t be more stoked to have the privilege to help start and host the first Catalyst climbing chapter in Alabama,” said Tony Levy, High Point Birmingham general manager. “It means so much for us to have the opportunity to share this sport with the community, and this program is only going to help open the door for more people to get involved in the world of climbing—people who, otherwise, might not get the chance.”

Catalyst Sports is an adaptive sports organization that originated in Atlanta, Georgia. They assist people of all ages with varying disabilities in exploring a variety of sports.

Catalyst clinics focus on climbing but have expanded to kayaking and cycling in some chapters as well.

“We are delighted to bring adaptive climbing to Birmingham. Together with High Point our goal is to make climbing accessible to everyone and to break down the barriers that might be stopping someone with a physical disability from experiencing rock climbing,” said Gillian Sharp, Catalyst Sports program director. “The clinic is a great opportunity to come out and try for free along with an incredible community of volunteers and climbers.”

Climbers can sign up to participate online at teamcatalyst.org. All ages are welcome.

Anyone wishing to volunteer must register online with both High Point Birmingham and Catalyst Sports.

A volunteer training clinic will be provided by Catalyst team members from 6-8 p.m. on Friday, Nov. 10.

The event is expected to draw between 50 and 60 adaptive climbers to the facility on Saturday.