The world of speed climbing is experiencing a surge in popularity, and at the forefront of this growth in Spain is 18-year-traditional Alberto García Rodríguez de Sepúlveda. Currently ranked number one nationally, García is poised to be a key competitor at the Copa de España de Escalada de Velocidad y Bloc Cáceres 2026, scheduled for March 28th and 29th at the high-performance ‘Alberto Ginés’ climbing gym.
García’s ascent in the sport is a testament to his dedication, competitive spirit, and unique approach to climbing. His story is inspiring a modern generation of climbers and captivating audiences with the sheer intensity of the discipline. The competition in Cáceres represents a crucial step in his burgeoning career.
Born in Ávila and raised in Madrid, where he continues to reside, Alberto grew up with climbing readily accessible. “I live near a street climbing wall, so climbing has always been present in my life,” he recalls. Though, his formal introduction to the sport came around the age of six. “I really started climbing when I signed up for classes with some friends from school at Boulder King, one of the first climbing gyms in Spain.”
From those early competitions in Madrid to his entry into the Federación Madrileña de Montañismo’s development team, his progress has been consistent. “I joined the development team and improved my level significantly. That’s where I discovered speed climbing with Erik Noya, our speed coach, who taught us a great deal.” Competition quickly became the central focus of his athletic life.
National Ranking Leader
Much has changed since those first attempts on the wall to now being the top-ranked climber in the nation. Alberto views that journey with perspective. “Being number one doesn’t mean much; the crucial thing is that I know I have a high level and still have a lot to improve.”
Behind this ranking is a dedication that often goes unseen by the public. “There are many years of constant work and demanding training. It’s not always simple, but all that effort is what allows me to pursue my goals and continue to grow as an athlete.”
Speed climbing combines power, precision, and a rare mental fortitude. A race is decided in just five seconds, and even a minor error can be costly. “When I’m climbing, I try not to think too much and just focus on continuing to climb. Staying calm and focused before and after the ‘pegue’ (the dynamic start) is key… Speed climbing requires a high degree of mental coolness to avoid ‘overthinking’ in crucial moments.”
The Adrenaline of Five Seconds
What prompted Alberto to focus on speed climbing, and what led him to choose this discipline over others within the sport? He explains that the decision wasn’t accidental. “It was a bit of a turning point due to the fact that I also had potential in other disciplines, but I was so passionate about speed that the decision was natural. I knew I wanted to focus on this modality and dedicate all my effort to it.”
This talent and mindset have also led him to compete internationally, participating in events on the World Climbing circuit – the new name for the IFSC – expanding his experience on the world stage. Last year, he finished twelfth at the IFSC-Europe Climbing European Cup Speed 2025 in the absolute category. At 18, he was also eligible to compete in the youth category, where he finished fifth.
How does Alberto prepare for each competition? “In the qualifying rounds, I focus only on my own run. In the finals, where it depends on the opponent, I try to stay focused on my own climb, although it’s sometimes inevitable to pay attention to what the other person is doing.”
This tension is part of the appeal of a discipline that, as he himself explains, has a magnetic power for spectators. “In speed climbing, you never know what will happen. The adrenaline you feel in those five seconds of climbing is incredible, and because it’s such a quick sport, it’s always exciting to watch.”
Now of legal age, outside of climbing, Alberto’s life also revolves around sport. He studies Physical Activity and Sport Sciences at the UPM (Universidad Politécnica de Madrid), which allows him to deepen his understanding of performance and physical preparation. “My day revolves around training, and when I’m not training, I dedicate myself to resting as much as possible to be able to perform at 100% in every session.” He also makes time to disconnect: “I usually relax by watching anime or doing things that aren’t too tiring.” He emphasizes the importance of his support system: “My environment is key to my growth as an athlete; they support and motivate me constantly.”
Cáceres 2026, a Key Date
Regarding the Copa de España de Escalada de Velocidad y Bloc Cáceres 2026, Alberto has this national event firmly in his sights, taking place on March 28th and 29th at the ‘Alberto Ginés’ high-performance facility. For him, the event holds special significance. “The Copa de España is incredibly important to me, not only for the competition itself, but also because it serves as a qualifier for international competitions this year.” His goal is clear: “To arrive in the best possible physical condition and give it my all in every run.”
In Extremadura, a region actively committed to sport and climbing in particular, the presence of role models like Alberto García Rodríguez de Sepúlveda helps to highlight a modality that is growing at the same rate as the young climber ascends a wall.
The Copa de España de Escalada de Velocidad y Bloc Cáceres 2026 promises to be a thrilling event, showcasing the incredible athleticism and dedication of Spain’s top speed climbers. Alberto García, with his unwavering focus and passion, is undoubtedly one to watch.
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