MaxiFamily Boulder Weekend 2024 (EN)

Mohammad Ali Hikmati (Bern) and Olha Pohoida (Zurich) share their personal experiences from this year’s Boulder Weekend organized by ClimbAID Switzerland in Chironico.

On the weekend of September 14-15, ClimbAID’s annual Boulder Weekend took place in Ticino, providing many participants with an enriching and formative experience. People from various regions of Switzerland, including both experienced climbing enthusiasts and newcomers, gathered to enjoy the beauty of Chironico and test their climbing skills on the rugged granite.

Mohammad Ali Hikmati, who traveled with the MaxiFamily from Bern and climbed outdoors for the first time, reported on his excitement and the first climbing day at the Chironico boulders:

“The weekend of September 14-15 was marked in red on my calendar for this adventure. It was my first experience with outdoor climbing, and I was very excited. The organization provided all the equipment; all we had to bring were our personal items. On Saturday morning, September 14, our group of eight set off early from Bern towards Ticino. After about four hours of driving, we finally reached our destination and joined other groups that had traveled from various cantons. After a short walk, we arrived at the boulders, our climbing goal. Before we started climbing, the trainers explained some important rules and safety aspects to keep in mind while climbing. The first day was characterized by relatively cold and windy weather, but the warm and friendly atmosphere made it enjoyable. We spent the day climbing and facing the challenges of the rocks until the evening.”

Ali also reflected on the shared evening in a lodge in Catto and the second day:

“One of the strengths and beauties of this event was the group work. Each group had specific tasks, which were completed efficiently, whether it was cooking, cleaning, or other duties. In the evening, when we gathered for dinner, we got to know each other better, and the atmosphere became more intimate. Despite the fatigue, we stayed up late, talking, laughing, playing group games, and dancing, creating unforgettable memories of the night.

On the second day, we were greeted by warm weather and climbed again in the same area, but on different boulders. We stayed there until the afternoon, enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Around three in the afternoon, we said goodbye to our new friends and set off on the journey back, carrying the beauty of Ticino in our hearts. This event was one of the most informative and unforgettable trips I’ve had in Switzerland. It not only improved my climbing skills but also enhanced my language abilities.”

Olha Pohoida, who came with the group from Zurich, wrote about her personal experiences:

“For me, this climbing weekend was my first experience with outdoor climbing. It was a unique, incomparable, and unforgettable experience! Now I can’t wait to go climbing outdoors again. The feeling of rough stone under my fingers, the absolute focus on my sensations, control over my body, every movement. And also the support of the community, the sense of belonging, the friendly, cheerful, and relaxed atmosphere. Meeting like-minded people, people who, regardless of age, background, education, or financial status, share a passion for climbing and a view on active weekend fun. We were united by a love for climbing in the mountains.

As someone with a forced migration background, it was not easy for me to adjust to long-term life in another country. However, thanks to bouldering and this community, I was gradually able to restore my mental well-being and integrate into the society I now live in. Sport is one of the best antidepressants, a way to get out of a melancholic state. But this community, this bouldering party, is another important element that drew me to this sport. It doesn’t matter if you’re big or small, strong or weak, flexible or more static – everyone can find their own way to overcome the rock, solve their own project.”

The weekend in Ticino was a moving and enriching experience for both participants, Ali and Olha. While it was a sporting challenge for some, it was an opportunity for all to rediscover themselves and grow into a community that supports and inspires them.