Popular Ottawa Climbing Gym Vertical Reality Closing
Vertical Reality in Ottawa opened its doors 25 years ago and announced today that they’ll be closing their doors with no plan to reopen.
The gym was established by the legendary Peter Slivka in 1993 and became a go-to for many Ottawa climbers.
The gym went through a facelift in 2011 when Slivka moved back to his home country of Slovakia and Petra, his daughter, became the new owner.
The following was posted on their Facebook page here.
Once again it is clear that NCC only cares about one thing…NCC. They pulled the rug from underneath me and haven’t stopped kicking.
I actually cannot believe that I’m writing this, but Vertical Reality is officially closing its doors at the end of this year and will not be rebuilding.
This has been a home to so many people… it’s not just a gym, it’s a community of like minded, welcoming wonderful individuals. Each and every one of you that has called VR their home, I thank you! I thank you for your support and friendship.
From the day my dad opened VR in 1993, it was a place without judgement, no one cared what grade you climb, you became part of a climbing community that no one else has.
To my dad, I thank you so much for VR it changed my life in so many wonderful ways. I hope I made you proud. To Ken, who I met at VR (of course) your support is untouchable! To each and every one of you that calls VR home, I THANK YOU for your smiles, your positivity and your support. And lastly, to my staff (past and present), you have each taught me so much about myself I can’t thank you enough for that. I’m so proud of you and I’m so sorry it had to end this way.
In true definition of a climbing community, Coyote Rock Gym has offered to honour the remainder of people’s memberships after the closure. If this is not an option for you, a refund will be given (please speak with Jacob or Addison)
I love you all
Go climb a rock!
Petra
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