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ITCC Press Releases
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
CONTACT Sonia Abney:
(217) 355-9411 Ext 27
2002 International Tree Climbing Championship Results
CHAMPAIGN, IL (August 19, 2002) - Bernd Strasser of Gomadingen, Germany, and Wenda Li, an ISA Certified Arborist from East York, Ontario, Canada, were recently named male and female world champions, respectively, at the 26th International Tree Climbing Championship in Seattle.
Sponsored by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA), the annual event showcased the talents of some of the best climbers in the world as they were tested on their ability to quickly, professionally, and safely maneuver in a tree and perform work-related tree-care tasks.
Strasser was one of four men competing in the final round of climbing July 28; Li was one of two women. Others who finished in the top six overall were:
- Patrick Zurcher of Mattwil, Switzerland
- Jared Abrogena of Antioch, California, an ISA Certified Tree Worker
- Mark Chisholm of Freehold, New Jersey, an ISA Certified Arborist
- Kia Martin of South Yarra, Australia
The most talked about event during the championship was the belayed speed climb, set in a tall Sierra Redwood (Seqouiadendron gigateum). Climbers had to complete a 91-foot vertical race through a maze of gnarled limbs. Germany's Strasser set the pace for the men with a time of 39 seconds. Martin led the women with a time of 39.09.
Competitors from the United States, Canada, Europe, Australia, and New Zealand performed six different climbs over a two-day period last month. The events were meant to simulate working conditions and allow arborists from around the world to learn new techniques and use new equipment.
"This event really brought the best of the best together," said Jim Skiera, associate executive director of the ISA. "It also serves as a reminder that arboriculture is an exciting but sometimes dangerous field. Professional arborists really have to know their stuff, tree climbing being among the tasks they have to master."
Next year's championship is scheduled to take place in Montreal, Quebec, Canada on August 2 and 3, 2003.
The International Society of Arboriculture (ISA) is a nonprofit organization supporting
tree care research around the world. Headquartered in Champaign, Ill., ISA is dedicated to the care and
preservation of shade and ornamental trees. For more information, contact a local ISA Certified Arborist
or visit
www.treesaregood.com.
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