Korca stories

Small Beginnings
We are staunch believers in the positive
impact of sports. We love everything outdoors
and being active, but above all we value the
effect it has on our mental wellbeing. That is
what we had in mind when building the rock
climbing gym.

Climbing is a very versatile sport – not only

does it improve the physique (muscles,
flexibility, cardio), its mental health benefits
are ample (problem solving, concentration,
overcoming boundaries, courage building,
etc.). If that wasn’t plentiful already, add all
the social benefits. Who wouldn’t like to be a
part of a welcoming, laid-back, supportive and
challenging climbers’ community?

Slowly, bit by bit, we are getting a glimpse of

it at our gym. Andre* (not his real name), had
come only a couple of times with his church’s
youth group. A shy teenager of few words from
a large and very poor family, not overly ambitious nor hopeful of a bright future for himself, yet a
talented first-time rock-climber with a lot of potential. Being poor is a major obstacle for Albanian
kids not just to fit in, but also to pursue their dreams. The first Albanian Bouldering Championship
was coming up, and we invited Andre to take part in the qualifiers in Korca. His first place win,
guaranteed him the trip to the national championship in Tirana, the capital city. He was worried he
wouldn’t be able to go because of money. We covered the expenses, and he returned with 3rd place in
his age group, for which he competed with youth from all over the country. Imagine the boost to self-
esteem, the value of supportive climber buddies, and the sheer joy of an adventure he received!

We hope that’s only the beginning of a much bigger story. And we are hopeful for many more similar
beginnings.

P.S. Since the start, we never wanted lack of money to be an obstacle for anybody. Let us know if
you’d like to join us in helping make dreams come true.