Last Saturday, December 14, the Open Bloc held its fourth edition at the iconic Bloc District Marina climbing gym in Barcelona, once again becoming a key event for climbers looking to prepare for the international IFSC circuit. With 400 participants in total, the day brought together prominent competitors from the amateur and professional categories, who tested their technique, strength, and strategy on the 40 amateur category boulders and 10 pro category boulders.
The competition showcased an exceptional level of talent in both men and women. Antoine Girard (France) and Fanni Gibert (France) were crowned the day’s grand champions. Girard, with a solid and high-level performance, took first place in the men’s category, followed by Leo Avezou and Guillermo Peinado, who secured second and third place, respectively. Meanwhile, Fanni Gibert led the women’s category, demonstrating her absolute dominance on the boulders, with Lily Abriat in second place and Julia Benach in third.
The event, which served as a meeting point for the best climbers from the national and international scene, also featured the presence of commentators Patxi Usobiaga and Albert Ginés, who, with their extensive experience and knowledge of bouldering, provided top-tier live coverage. They both conveyed the excitement of each move and route analysis, offering attendees a deeper insight into what was happening at the climbing gym.
Bloc District Marina, as always, proved to be the perfect venue to host an event of this magnitude. The 40 boulders for amateurs and 10 for professionals were designed with great detail, maintaining the necessary challenge for each competitor to demonstrate their highest level. The day was marked by excitement, camaraderie among participants, and a vibrant atmosphere that made each boulder feel like a true challenge.
The final results were as follows:
Men’s Category:
1. Antoine Girard (France)
2. Leo Avezou (France)
3. Guillermo Peinado (Spain)
4. Alistair Duval (United Kingdom)
5. Marcus Nimrod (Israel)
6. Raúl Escribano (Spain)
Women’s Category:
1. Fanni Gibert (France)
2. Lily Abriat (France)
3. Julia Benach (Spain)
4. Lucile Saurel (France)
5. Emily Pescetto (Spain)
6. Laia Taulats (Spain)
The Barcelona Open Bloc continues to be an excellent platform for climbers aspiring to compete in the IFSC circuit and a key event in the calendar of competitions leading up to international tournaments.
With its focus on excellence and spirit of camaraderie, this fourth edition of the Open Bloc has been another resounding success that has left its mark on the bouldering community. The organizers are already planning the next edition, with new surprises and challenges to further consolidate this event as one of the most anticipated in the competitive landscape.
