ABC Origins: A Youth Comp Built on Fun, Stoke, and Community

The ABC Origins competition at ABC Kids Climbing was everything a youth-focused event should be: inclusive, energetic, and packed with psyched young climbers. Held on April 26, the event welcomed athletes ranging from recreational climbers to highly competitive youth, all sharing the same space, energy, and encouragement.

One of the standout elements of ABC Origins was its intentional focus on fun-first competition. Finals showcased an inspiring mix of young crushers and novice climbers alike, with “bingo-style” challenges woven into the format so everyone had something exciting to engage with. The atmosphere felt more like a party than a pressure cooker—exactly the kind of event many families and athletes are craving as an alternative to the traditional USAC and ASCL pipeline.

From a setting standpoint, the event hit an impressive mark. Setting hard, competition-style boulders for small bodies is no easy task, but the setting team absolutely delivered. The climbs were creative, challenging, and confidence-building, keeping athletes motivated throughout the day. Having access to Kilter holds played a huge role in that success—bringing freshness and excitement even for kids who climb at ABC regularly and know the gym’s holds inside and out.

The response from the community said it all: there’s a huge desire along the Front Range for more youth events like this—comps that prioritize connection, joy, and growth alongside performance. ABC Origins did exactly that, creating a space where kids could push themselves, cheer for one another, and head into the summer season feeling inspired.

Open Finals Results

Boys Open Finals

Aiden Harris – 74.70
Bayes Wilder – 74.70
Beckett Hsin – 74.60
Zach Stine – 43.90
Blake Emerson – 19.80
Nathan Johnson – 9.80

Girls Open Finals

Marlowe LeMaire – 44.5
Rosario Cornell – 44.4
Mackenzie Sargent – 44.2
Kes Pikiewicz – 29.6
Rachel Park – 19.8
Daisy Jacobson – 18.6

We were proud to support ABC Origins by lending holds and helping create a setting environment that felt new, special, and memorable for the athletes. Events like this remind us how impactful thoughtful youth comps can be—and we’re excited to keep supporting gyms and organizers who are building these experiences from the ground up.