Australia's Oceana Mackenzie plots her route in the bouldering competition, a sport climbing sub-discipline.
Bouldering demands both gymnastic strength and mental acuity. Climbers face ever-changing "problems" (courses) designed by "route setters."
Climbers are isolated before each heat, unable to see others attempt the problems. They rely on experience to strategize.
Mackenzie analyzes the wall, a daunting 4.5 meters studded with holds. Her goal: "flashing" it (completing it on the first try).
Bouldering walls have five segments, each worth five points. Reaching the top grants 25 points, with deductions for failed attempts. Four problems per heat make a total score of 100.
In just 30 seconds, Mackenzie flawlessly navigates the first wall, earning a perfect 25 points and the first perfect score of the day.
The venue DJ plays an Australian remix during Mackenzie's climb, adding to the electrifying atmosphere.
Introduced in Tokyo 2020, sport climbing faced teething problems. Initially, it combined three disciplines with vastly different skills.
Following feedback, speed climbing became its own Olympic event in Paris 2024. Bouldering and lead climbing remain combined.
