On Friday evening the first UIAA ice climbing World Cup event was officially opened on South Tyrolean soil. Athletes, attendants, officials, honorary guests and spectators gathered at the Terme square to participate in the opening ceremony – despite the strong wind. The event began with a live gig by Doggy Dorfmann.

Following the official part and the welcoming address by the OC-Chairman Reinhard Graf a speed show contest powered by Kältetechnik Zorzi Meran provided the spectators with amazing entertainment. The first competition was won by the Russian Pavel Batushev. This Saturday sees the first competitions of the World Cup. Further to the qualifications in the lead competition (difficulty climbing) the speed climbing finals will take place from 7:20 pm. By tonight, the names of first World Cup Champions will be known. On Sunday the difficulty climbing final begins at 1 pm. Over 100 athletes from 17 nations participate in the ice climbing World Cup in Corvara.