New climbing wall challenges climbers

Athletes interested in climbing soon will have a new venue in Prescott where they can hone their skills.
Called Gripstone Climbing, the gym will feature rope-climbing, lead-climbing and bouldering. Beyond that, climbers can participate in climbing classes, work with climbing teams and engage in competitions, said Cody Anne, company spokeswoman.
Anne anticipated the facility will open in late June or early July. 
Located at 319 N. Lee Boulevard, at the east edge of Prescott on SR 89, the gym is in what formerly was a Goodwill Store. The 11,000-square-foot building has 30-foot ceilings, so construction personnel have been installing steel beams and other structures to create and accommodate challenging climbing experiences.
The estimated cost for purchase and renovation of the building into a championship climbing facility is more than $2 million, Anne said.
Anne explained that a key partner is Tony Yaniro, a world-renowned athlete who often is called the “Father of Modern Sport Climbing.” Yaniro, who now lives in Prescott, for more than 40 years developed innovative climbing techniques that his followers have adopted. 
Anne said plans are that the gym will be open seven days a week. Professionally trained staff will provide instruction for members. In adding to providing climbing experiences, the gym will have a weight and fitness center, a yoga studio, a public café and locker rooms and showers. Rental equipment also will be available, she said.