Congratulations to British Team member Mark Croxall, who got off to a flying start in this year's UIAA-ICC Bouldering World Cup by winning the first round, held at the weekend at the Ordnance Survey Outdoors Show at Birmingham's NEC.

Mark powered his way to victory in front of a packed audience by completing all six problems in the Final in fewer attempts than France's Remi Samyn, who was the only other climber to top out six times. Jerome Mayer (France) was 3rd, and reigning World Cup Champion Daniel Dulac (France) was 10th. Gareth Parry topped the Qualification round, but couldn't quite repeat his performance in the 12-man Final, where he took 6th place. Stewart Watson just missed out on a Final appearance, finishing in 13th.

Reigning British Bouldering Champion Andy Earl was unable to find the form which helped him lift the national title last month, and finished in 23rd place. In the Women's event, reigning World Cup Champion Sandrine Levet (France) showed her determination to retain the title, holding off the challenge of Russia's Olga Bibik and Yulia Abramchuk. Britain's Katherine Schirrmacher almost made it into the 12-woman Final, finishing in 14th place. Full results and photos here The next round in the World Cup series takes place in Moscow (8-10 April). For more information on international climbing competitions visit www.uiaaclimbing.com

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