Inauguration of 29th IMF West Zone Sport Climbing Championship at Pimple Saudagar’s Yoga Park
Pune, October 4, 2025 — The 29th IMF (Indian Mountaineering Foundation) West Zone Sport Climbing Championship was inaugurated today at the Yoga Park near Vibgyor School, Pimple Saudagar — home to Asia’s largest and most advanced climbing wall.
The grand opening of the national-level championship was carried out by former corporator Vitthal (Nana) Kate and former corporator Nirmala Kute in the presence of several dignitaries including, IMF West Zone Chairperson K. Saraswati, IMF West Zone Secretary Shrikrishna Kaduskar, retired DGP and advocate Narendra Nikam, and retired Army Colonel Devang Naik.
The three-day championship, jointly organized by the IMF West Zone, Pimpri Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), and the Maharashtra Sports Climbing Association (MSCA), will run from October 3 to 5, 2025. A total of 150 top wall climbers from Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Goa, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Chhattisgarh, and the Union Territories of Diu and Daman are participating in this event.
The Yoga Park’s state-of-the-art climbing facility — envisioned under the leadership of Deputy Chief Minister and Guardian Minister Ajit Pawar and inaugurated online by Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis on June 18, 2025 — features a 21-meter Speed Wall, a 21-meter Lead Wall, and an 18-meter Bouldering Wall. The venue also includes separate recreation areas for children and fitness zones for senior citizens.
Speaking at the ceremony, Nirmala Kute expressed pride in the city’s achievement, saying,
“It is a matter of great honor that an international-standard climbing facility has been built in Pimple Saudagar. Hosting such a prestigious championship here is a proud moment for all citizens. I urge residents to attend in large numbers and support the athletes who are bringing glory to our city.”
Vitthal (Nana) Kate also shared his thoughts, stating,
“This world-class climbing wall is not just an infrastructure project — it’s a symbol of the city’s growing commitment to sports. I believe facilities like this will inspire the next generation of athletes to aim higher and make our city and state proud at national and international platforms.”
The Yoga Park’s world-class climbing wall is expected to serve as a major training hub for aspiring athletes aiming to compete at national and international levels, marking a significant milestone for Pune’s growing sports infrastructure.
