Walking into Project Climbing Chilliwack was almost overwhelming, but somehow in the best way possible. The centre was spacious and light-filled with customers of all ages squeezing in some bouldering time. Scaling the walls were people reaching from one artificial rock to another, and some had others standing on the cushiony mat below shouting up encouragement.
The Cascade got the chance to sit down with Project Climbing Centre owner Brock Tilling to talk about the centre, how business has been, and the fun activities the space has to offer. Before now there has been an Abbotsford location (opened in 2009) and Cloverdale location (opened in 2016). The Chilliwack location opened in the summer of 2022. When asked about what caused the decision to open a third location, Tilling was happy to talk about the demand for it and how the business has been doing so far.
“There is such an amazing climbing community here already and they all climbed in Abbotsford, so yeah it was about time,” said Tilling. “It’s been amazing. Definitely busier than expected. It’s been pretty phenomenal.”
At this point in the interview a customer fell on to the cushiony mat, to which a number of climbers praised how far she made it up before coming down. Even Tilling watched in excitement at how the climber brushed themselves off and started going again. The morale was heartwarming to see, and left us asking about newcomers to the exercise.
“There’s a lot of people who just never even climbed before who are now just trying it out as an alternative. There’s definitely been a bit of an uptick since the new year, but I think just in general it’s kinda snowballing.”
Tilling (and the centre) welcome intermediate climbers and beginners into the centre with courses and lessons on how to better techniques or just get started.
“For climbing, just [try] it,” advised Tilling. “Our staff will always help you out and give pointers, but we do also offer introductory courses on Sunday mornings a couple times a month. So, that’s if you don’t want to be just thrown into the mix and fend for yourself. Give them some pointers so they’re a bit more set up for success. Really anyone can just drop in and just try it, the community is helpful.”
What about the climbers that already know the ropes (or lack of)? Project Climbing Centre is hosting their twelfth annual Boulder Series (part one in Abbotsford was Nov. 5 to Dec. 2) with part two happening right now in Chilliwack until Feb. 3. Then following they will be hosting a wrap up party that will feature awards and draw prizes. There are three categories in the series: beginner, intermediate, and advanced. Something for everyone, and the staff will help you pick which section is right for you when it comes to signing up. The aim of the event was a way to bring the climbing community together.
“It’s kind of a more casual competition. It’s more just a social thing where people can cheer each other on, and challenge each other rather than a totally stressful one day climbing competition. It’s really good for community building, and gives a little extra motivation.”
For more information on the courses, Boulder Series, and the centre in general visit the Project Climbing Centre’s website, and Instagrams (@pcchilliwack, @pccabbotsford, and @pccloverdale).
Eva Davey is a UFV student majoring in English Literature and minoring in Media Communications. She is a fan of poetry, oat milk lattes, and the final girl trope. Currently, her worst enemy is the Good Reads app.
