The USA Climbing Leadership Awards celebrate those who exemplify excellence, leadership, and lasting impact within the climbing community. These honorees are advancing the sport through achievement, advocacy, service, and a commitment to helping climbing grow and thrive.
July 1-31: Nomination period August 14 – September 1: Voting period September 10: Recipients announced and notified October 16-18: Awards Celebration at Boulder World Climbing Series
Leadership Awards follow a separate nomination and selection process. Eligible nominators and voters will receive direct communication regarding timelines, criteria, and voting procedures.
These awards recognize extraordinary contributions to the sport, the organization, and the climbing community and are selected by designated stakeholder groups and organizational leadership.
Summit Medal The highest honor presented annually by USA Climbing, recognizing an individual who has made an extraordinary and lasting impact on the sport and climbing community. This award celebrates leadership, vision, service, and a proven commitment to advancing USA Climbing and the future of competition climbing.
100 Women for Climbing Impact Award Honors a woman who is creating meaningful impact within the climbing community through leadership, mentorship, advocacy, or service. This award celebrates individuals who are helping shape a more inclusive, supportive, and inspiring future for climbing.
Female Athlete of the Year Awarded to a female athlete who has demonstrated exceptional performance and sportsmanship in national and/or international competition. Consideration includes competition results, consistency, leadership, and overall contribution to the sport.
Male Athlete of the Year Awarded to a male athlete who has demonstrated exceptional performance and sportsmanship in national and/or international competition. Consideration includes competition results, consistency, leadership, and overall contribution to the sport.
Para Female Athlete of the Year Recognizes an adaptive female athlete whose achievements, perseverance, and impact have elevated para climbing within the USA Climbing community. Performance, progress, and advocacy are all considered.
Para Male Athlete of the Year Recognizes an adaptive male athlete whose achievements, perseverance, and impact have elevated para climbing within the USA Climbing community. Performance, progress, and advocacy are all considered.
Female Youth Athlete of the Year Awarded to a female youth athlete who has demonstrated outstanding performance, dedication, and sportsmanship throughout the season. Consideration includes competition results, growth, leadership, and positive impact within the climbing community.
Male Youth Athlete of the Year Awarded to a male youth athlete who has demonstrated outstanding performance, dedication, and sportsmanship throughout the season. Consideration includes competition results, growth, leadership, and positive impact within the climbing community.
Partner Gym of the Year Celebrates a USA Climbing partner facility that has gone above and beyond in supporting competitions, athlete development, and the climbing community. Consideration includes event hosting, community outreach, inclusivity, and overall excellence in partnership.
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