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YOUNG AND COMPETITIVE sport climbers have discovered new training facilities courtesy of outdoor learning and adventure charity Outfit Moray.

With the sport soon to be featured in the Olympic Games there has never been a better time for young people to become involved.

Now the charity is helping them by sourcing a suitable training facility that allows them to take part in the Youth Climbing Series (YCS) – with volunteer coaches available to assist in training sessions.

The Lossiemouth-based charity have revealed that Moray entrants in the YCS this year are Natalie Taylor, Carrie Brown, Rachel Wood, Emma Phillip, Will Bain, Duncan Brown, Rhys Taylor and Lorna Brown whose ages range from eight to 17.

They are all veterans of the Youth Climbing Series organised by Climb Scotland – apart from Rachel, who is enjoying her first competition season.

Outfit Moray’s CEO, Tony Brown, and his children are all members of the group, so it was an easy decision for him to volunteer his time to get behind the team and help them with their training.

Tony said: “Climbing has been a family activity for some time and even our youngest, Lorna, has been taking part in the Youth Climbing Series since she was seven.

“It’s been great watching the group grow and see the young climbers gain in confidence and skill – and being able to use Outfit Moray’s experience and connections means they are better able to focus on their training and improve their results.

“Indoor sport climbing is something we regularly run as part of our Ignite programme here at Outfit Moray, as it teaches young people a great deal about positive risk taking and planning as well as improving their communication and teamwork skills.

Young Sport Climber, Will Bain added: “I love climbing on a Monday night with Outfit Moray at the climbing wall because it means I get to climb with a group of committed young sport climbers. We are all pushing and encouraging each other to improve.”