This year the GB National Development Squad selection policy was amended due to the coronavirus pandemic on the national competition season. This coupled with the cancellation of the YCS Grand final meant that the entry point for Youth D&C in 2021 wasn’t possible.

DOWNLOAD: GB National Development Squad selection policy

To ensure that this important stage of the athlete pathway is not affected by the pandemic, a pilot Regional Development Squad system will be delivered for eligible Youth D and Youth C athletes in England and Wales. The overall top 4 athletes in Youth C and Youth D, in both the male and female categories from each region who took place in the regional 2020 YCS rounds, will be invited to engage with the regional squad program in 2021.

There will be 16 athletes in total invited from each region.

• Top 4 Male Youth D YCS Regional overall result 2020
• Top 4 Female Youth D YCS Regional overall result 2020
• Top 4 Male Youth C YCS Regional overall result 2020
• Top 4 Female Youth C YCS Regional overall result 2020

Due to the uncertainly of COVID restrictions in 2021 the support will likely begin online whilst the pandemic restrictions are in place and if COVID restrictions allow, 1:1/small group coaching regionally led by the GB Climbing National Development Squad coaching team.

The program will take place between April and July of next year and one of the key objectives will be to help to prepare athletes for the rescheduled YCS series in 2021 and beyond.

Mountaineering Scotland and Mountaineering Ireland will continue to operate their talent development pathways in line with COVID-19 related restrictions and guidance. GB Climbing will provide support to relevant athletes.

More details of how to register for the regional squad system will be available early 2021.

For any queries please contact Lucinda@thebmc.co.uk

« Back