Romanian Paraclimbing Team Shines in Salt Lake City

The Romanian National Paraclimbing Team won one gold and two silver medals at the World Cup stage held in Salt Lake City (USA) on May 20–21, 2025. This international competition once again confirmed Romania’s place among the global elite in paraclimbing.

The Romanian athletes who competed in this stage showcased determination, professionalism, and team spirit. Although the podium was fiercely contested, the team’s performances were praised by both the organizers and fellow competitors, highlighting the team’s continued progress.

Romania was represented by:

• Cosmin Candoi – B3 category – Gold medal

• Răzvan Nedu – B2 category – Silver medal

• Daniel Andrei – B3 category – Silver medal

• Ionela Drăgan – B3 category – 5th place

• Liviu Matei – AU3 category – 7th place

• Ștefan Dogaru – RP3 category – 11th place

• Andrei Petraru – RP1 category – 12th place

The technical team supporting the athletes included:

• Claudiu Miu – Head Coach

• Antoaneta Barbu – Team Manager

• Radu Ionescu – Coach

• Andrei Băț – Guide/Instructor

• Constantin Voicescu – Physiotherapist/Guide

Participation in this competition marked a significant step in the preparation for upcoming World Cup stages, the Paraclimbing World Championships, and especially the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles. The experience gained at such a high-level event is essential for the continued development of the national team.

Cosmin Candoi, B3 category athlete:
“This was the first competition of the season, and we’re glad that this year there will be an overall World Cup ranking. More and more athletes are competing, the level of competition has increased, and athletes are more motivated than ever. We’re happy to have had so many team members in the finals. The routes were very well set, we really enjoyed them, and it was an intense competition for the B3 category—I was nervous with every move on the wall. Our goal for this season is to win 11 medals, with the main target being the World Championships in South Korea in September. And now, the first three medals are already ours!”

Claudiu Miu, Head Coach:
“The results in the U.S. reflect not only the athletes’ level but also the continuous work behind every training session. This is a team that inspires, and Salt Lake City was another important step on the road to the 2028 Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.”

Antoaneta Barbu, Team Manager:
“Participation in this stage was more than just a competition—it was a test of sporting maturity and unity. I want to thank everyone for their dedication and determination.”

The Romanian National Paraclimbing Team is coordinated by Climb Again Association, which founded the first climbing therapy center in Europe, located in Bucharest. Since 2014, it has been offering free therapeutic climbing sessions and psycho-emotional support for children and young people with disabilities.