Lead climbing: Gold Medals for Switzerland and Slovenia

The Military World Winter Games 2025 kicked off with a spectacular climbing competition on Monday, March 24, as athletes from 15 nations battled for a place in the lead climbing finals. Swiss climber Nino Grünenfelder impressed with a top performance in the qualifiers, while Mia Krampl (SLO) dominated the women’s field.

3/26/2025

On Tuesday morning, the top 24 competitors from the qualifiers faced off in the semi-finals, delivering breathtaking performances and thrilling moments for the cheering crowd. After an intense battle, Jonas Utelli (SUI), Christoph Hanke (GER), Luka Potočar (SLO), Giorgio Tomatis (ITA), Nino Grünenfelder (SUI), Sascha Lehmann (SUI), Marcello Bombardi (ITA), and Domen Škofic (SLO) secured their spots in the men's final. For the women, Sara Čopar (SLO), Jessica Pilz (AUT), Mattea Pötzi (AUT), Mia Krampl (SLO), Julia Chanourdie (FRA), Liv Egli (SUI), Giorgia Tesio (ITA), and Magdalena Kompein (AUT) advanced to the last round.

In the afternoon finals, the competition reached its climax. Under roaring applause, Sascha Lehmann (SUI) delivered a stellar performance, securing the gold medal in the men’s competition. The newly crowned lead climbing champion was thrilled with his victory and is eager to carry this momentum into the bouldering event on Thursday.

For the women, Sara Čopar (SLO) surprised even herself by taking the gold medal with an outstanding score. She carried her confidence from the semi-finals into the final round and climbed flawlessly under immense pressure.

The silver medals went to Jonas Utelli (SUI) and Jessica Pilz (AUT), while Luka Potočar (SLO) and Mattea Pötzi (AUT) claimed bronze.

There is little time to rest, as tomorrow brings the speed climbing competition, promising more fast-paced action and thrilling duels.