Nearly 100 arborists, clad in helmets and rope harnesses, competed in the International Tree Climbing Championship held in a St. Louis park. This year marks the event's 50th anniversary, with contestants hailing from 22 countries.
The competition features several disciplines designed to showcase arborists' skills. In the belayed speed climb, competitors race to the treetop, while the aerial rescue event requires them to navigate branches to retrieve a dummy. E.J. Turner, a third-generation climber and five-time Midwest chapter winner, highlighted the work climb as his favorite. This event simulates job tasks by having competitors move through 80- to 100-foot trees, ringing bells at designated points to signify simulated cuts.
Competitors are judged on speed, route planning, and poise during the work climb. Other events in the initial round include ascent and throwline challenges. Those with the highest scores will advance to the Masters' Challenge.
Caitlyn Pollihan, CEO of the nonprofit International Society of Arboriculture, which organizes the event, noted that the championship reflects the daily work of arborists. The contest includes 52 men and 39 women, many of whom have prior competitive experience against one another.
"There’s this just fascinating camaraderie that you wouldn’t necessarily expect at a competition," Pollihan stated.
The first International Tree Climbing Championship was also hosted in St. Louis in 1976. Organizers chose to return the event to the city as a tribute to its origins. Special speeches and keepsakes are planned to commemorate the 50th anniversary milestone.