Year 12 student, Vinhas (Vin) Sukapanpotharam has not let lockdown affect his dream of competing at the International Federation of Sport Climbing’s marquee event.  Although only 16 years old, Vin flies to Moscow for the event from 16th to 21st September as one of the youngest in the field. 
 
The biannual competition qualifies climbers for the next Olympics and hosts athletes from around the world. The Climbing World Championship poses some logistical and academic hurdles for Vin, but he is determined to get there. After facing uncertainty regarding Thailand’s participation - the door is now open to perform on the world stage.
 
Vin will compete in two of the three disciplines: lead climbing and bouldering. In lead, competitors start at the bottom of a pre-planned route and must climb it within a specific time frame in a single attempt. Bouldering competitions consist of climbing short problems without a rope, emphasising the number of problems completed and the attempts necessary to do so.
 
Director of Sport at Shrewsbury International School Bangkok, Riverside Mr Paul Rotheram says he isn’t surprised at Vin’s achievement as he works hard, sets his goals and meets them.
 
“Vin is a fantastic young man who always takes time to support and help our younger climbers whenever possible. He understands what it takes to help his sport grow, and this shows real commitment,” Mr Rotheram stated.
 
We hope to bring you updates on Vin’s progress in Russia on our social media channels.