World Climbing Series Chongqing
One week after Guiyang, the second leg of back-to-back Chinese stops, and largely the same storyline: the Americans and the Chinese clashing on three fronts in relay, mixed relay and individual.
Chongqing is a genuine hub of Chinese speed climbing and has hosted world-level events since 2012. With two rounds left, the men's series title is still live, and if either of the two leaders falters there is a field behind them ready to take the number one spot.
For the Americans it is the last chance to win on Chinese soil this season, and for Watson specifically the last chance this year to end a nine-event drought in the country.
Zhao Yicheng
4.54
At 16-17 he already owns the world record and is the clear favorite every time he steps to the wall. The first sub-4.5s run may well be his.
Veddriq Leonardo
4.75
The reigning Olympic champion and Indonesia's leader; on any given day he can beat Zhao and Watson.
Kiromal Katibin
4.75
A veteran record-hunter still capable of a sub-4.9 on demand; part of Indonesia's deep speed roster.
Preview: results will be added once the event is complete and verified. Official event info →
Photo of Chongqing: Jonipoon · CC BY 3.0