Two Slovenian climbers reach the final, as Garnbret tops the semifinals again

Janja Garnbret opened her bid for a sixth home World Cup victory by topping the semifinals in Koper. She was the only competitor to complete both qualification routes and later took the semifinal lead with a height of 45+.

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I’m satisfied with my climbing. During the performance I really enjoyed it, even where it was difficult, and I managed to calm myself and gather enough strength to continue. This was exactly what I wanted to show today.

South Korea’s Chaehyun Seo also reached 45+, but Garnbret’s stronger qualifying result left Seo in second place. Rosa Rekar secured the third starting position for Saturday’s final after reaching 44+.

Rekar said she was satisfied with her climbing after feeling that nerves had limited her during the morning qualifications. She said she enjoyed the semifinal, stayed calm through difficult sections and drew additional energy from the Bonifika crowd. Despite qualifying third, she believed she could still improve before the final.

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Already in the semifinal the energy was incredible. The audience gives me additional energy and motivation, so I can’t wait to see what it will be like tomorrow in the final.

Four of Slovenia’s six semifinalists did not advance. Mia Krampl finished 20th at 34+ after losing composure when her foot slipped. Lučka Rakovec, a bronze medalist at the recent European Championships in Laval, fell at 34 and placed 21st.

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I was satisfied, but I feel I could have added the finishing touch. I hope I can do that tomorrow.