(Photo courtesy of EP Climbing)
EP Climbing, a pioneering force in the climbing industry, is proud to announce its partnership with Bend Endurance Academy (BEA) in the development of their groundbreaking youth training facility in Bend. This partnership positions EP Climbing as one of only two selected manufacturers entrusted with constructing a youth-specific climbing training facility, underscoring its commitment to revolutionizing the climbing landscape.
Bend and Central Oregon have always been at the forefront of the climbing world, and this facility allows EP and BEA to continue that legacy by creating a space that will not only benefit the region’s athletes but also contribute to the growth and development of climbing in Central Oregon. The partnership with BEA is a testament to our commitment to pushing the boundaries of climbing wall design.
Bend Endurance Academy’s new climbing training facility will serve as the epicenter for all BEA climbing programs, providing a dedicated space for training sessions, competitions, clinics, and training camps for competitive climbers throughout the West Coast. The facility will also house BEA’s operational offices, consolidating their operations under one roof.
“We are thrilled to partner with Bend Endurance Academy in the creation of their visionary climbing training facility,” said Bryce Benge, CEO of EP Climbing USA. “Our mission has always been to make climbing accessible to all, and this collaboration with BEA allows us to be a part of empowering the next generation of climbers through state-of-the-art infrastructure and cutting-edge design.”
Since its founding in 2009, BEA has played a crucial role in promoting healthy living and outdoor experiences for youth through programs in Nordic skiing, mountain biking, and climbing. Recognizing the growing popularity of climbing, BEA identified the need for a specialized training facility to support their climbing programs. The new location in Bend will be the first of its kind in the Pacific Northwest, adding another milestone to the region’s storied climbing legacy.
Mike Rougeux, executive director and longtime Bend climbing coach, expressed his excitement about the partnership, saying, “EP has long played a role in the climbing gym and climbing competition scene here in the U.S. and their commitment to creating a quality product and to furthering the arena of competition climbing helped make me confident that our project was in the best hands.”
Cate Beebe, BEA’s climbing director, emphasized the importance of a dedicated training space for the youth climbers. “I hope that by having a permanent location, the team members get to feel a sense of ownership over the space, the team, and their training.”
Leveraging EP Climbing’s expertise in designing and constructing state-of-the-art climbing walls, BEA’s youth climbers can expect an elevated training experience. With our experience in providing competition climbing walls for esteemed organizations like USA Climbing and the International Federation of Sport Climbing, we are well-equipped to create an extraordinary climbing environment for BEA.
To support the development of the new youth training facility, Bend Endurance Academy will be launching a fundraising campaign, seeking donations, sponsorships and hosting a forthcoming fundraising event. To learn more about how to get involved or to contribute to this exciting project, please visit bendenduranceacademy.org/club/facilities-campaign.
About Bend Endurance Academy:
The Bend Endurance Academy is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization based in Central Oregon with a mission to promote healthy living through active, outdoor experiences. We emphasize teamwork, inclusion, personal growth, and community responsibility.
Founded in 2009, the Bend Endurance Academy currently features development programs for youth and juniors in Rock Climbing, Cycling, and Nordic Skiing. In 2022, more than 1000 people participated in our programs and participants ranged in age from 3 – 74 years of age.
About EP Climbing USA:
EP Climbing USA is a leading supplier of state-of-the-art climbing walls, specializing in the design, construction, and installation of climbing facilities worldwide. With a focus on creating innovative and engaging climbing environments, EP Climbing has established itself as a trusted partner for various organizations, from local gyms to international competitions.
