Gauteng climber set to represent SA in Europe
Luke Westman, a Fourways climber, has once again made Gauteng proud by qualifying to take part in two major International Federation of Sport Climbing (IFSC) competitions this June in Europe.
Westman was part of the Youth World Championship Team, who travelled to China in August 2024, where he obtained his Protea Youth Climbing Colours.
'After getting to compete at the Youth World Championships last year, I'm both nervous and excited to be able to compete in the Open IFSC World Cups. While there's some pressure, I feel incredibly privileged to represent my country on the world stage.
'Competing in Bern, Switzerland, from June 13 to 15, and Innsbruck, Austria, from June 25 to 29, is a dream come true. I'm ready to embrace the challenge, push my limits, and grow as an athlete among the best in the world.'
The IFSC Innsbruck World Cup is arguably the most prestigious and favourite event for athletes to take part in. Westman, who also coaches younger climbers for local club, INSIDEedge Climbing, trains 5–6 days a week at CityROCK in Randburg, under the watchful guidance of head coach Devin Sender.
'I am very proud of Luke, who started his journey with me at the young age of 9, at Crawford Lonehill. His talent and hard work have paid off, making him one of the top climbers in our country. I am privileged to be his coach,' said Sender.
These competitions do not come cheap, and athletes have the responsibility of funding their trips 100%, with the help of sponsors. Gauteng Climbing secretary Bridgette Erdey said: 'Luke is one of many Gauteng Climbing athletes who will be travelling overseas, representing the South African Climbing Federation and IFSC Africa this year.
'Families who fund these trips make huge sacrifices to make the dreams of these athletes come true, if it is even at all possible. As a province, we want to stand behind Luke and the rest of our athletes, and call on public and private entities to assist with funds to keep South Africa and Gauteng on the world stage. You can do so by contacting Carmen Bouwer on president@gauteng-climbing.co.za.'
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