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The 2017 Arc’teryx Climbing Academy in Squamish

The 2017 Arc’teryx Climbing Academy will be held in Squamish from July 20 to 23. Like years past, the popular climbing event expects to draw hundreds of climbing enthusiasts, mountain guides and professional athletes from around the world.

There will be educational clinics, seminars, evening events, keynote speakers such as Hazel Findlay, Rob Pizem, Hayden Kennedy and Katie Bono, a photography contest, a climbing trade fair and live music by the Hairfarmers, Boom Booms and Five Alarm Funk.

While clinics and seminars are by registration, all are welcome for live music, movie premiers, climbing trade fair, keynote speakers and the photography contest, all hosted in downtown Squamish and free of charge.

“I am honoured and looking forward to being a part of this year’s Climbing Academy,” said Hazel Findlay. “It has an authentic reputation, rooted in a friendly community of local climbers.

“It will be a great opportunity to connect deeper with this community and Squamish is one of my all-time favorite places to climb. It is a little Yosemite. The granite is so good and it’s really a case of ‘pick your own adventure’ with everything from bouldering to big days out.”

New to this year’s event, the Squamish Exposed photography contest will position six professional photographers coupled with six professional climbers head to head for $1,500 in cash prices.

Gripped editor Brandon Pullan will be part of the judging panel for the competition.

General public will have the opportunity to enter for a chance to join the teams for a day of climbing and shooting on the distinguished Squamish rock.

Each photographer will compile slideshows that will be presented Saturday evening. The photographers include Gripped contributors John Price, Tim Banfield, Jimmy Martinello, Bradford McArthur, Rich Wheater and Kieren Brown and athletes include Marc-Andre, Brette Harrington, Will Gadd, Vikki Weldon, Hazel Findlay and Will Stanhope.

“We are really looking forward to introducing the photo contest to this year’s Academy,” said Justin Sweeny, Arc’teryx Marketing Manager. “The competition will provide an even more dynamic event experience and showcase the amazing and diverse climbing that Squamish provides.”

For more information on ARC’TERYX Climbing Academy clinics, schedules and the entire event please visit here.

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