The popular climbing spot of Wye Creek will be a buzz of activity this weekend as Queenstown Climbing Club members come together for a climbing marathon event.
Competing in teams of two or three, or individually, climbers will have six hours to complete as many climbs up routes of their own choosing - earning points based on difficulty and the distance traversed on the ground between climbs.
Club secretary Estelle Poiron said prospective entrants had to have a "certain level of climbing skill", including experience in belaying, top roping and/or leading.
Participants will meet at the Wye Creek car park from 10am, depart for "yet-to-be-selected routes" across the two main climbing areas and return to the car park by 5pm for prizegiving.
Despite the challenge aspect, Ms Poiron said it was "a social gathering" for the climbers, including a barbecue ($10 for those wishing to partake) back down in the car park.
She also hoped the marathon would raise awareness of the climbing opportunities available in the "beautiful Wye Creek" area, especially with international visitors.
The top prize is a three-month unlimited climbing pass from Lakes Leisure and further prizes have been provided by Small Planet, Tin Goose and Queenstown Osteopathy.
Climbers will have to bring all their own gear, including ropes, draws, climbing shoes and harnesses.
If weather conditions make climbing impossible on Saturday, Sunday has been named as an alternative date.
