Adventure seekers with a head for heights will be able to brush shoulders with world champions and record breakers once again at this year’s Cliffhanger festival.
Sports enthusiasts who like to climb high, run fast and swim deep will be able to take part in a host of daredevil activities at the eighth Cliffhanger festival, which is returning to Millhouses Park between 21 and 22 June 2014.
And for the first time, climbers will be able to take part in the Senior British Bouldering Championships at the Climbing Works, which is based 10 minutes away at Woodseats Road and boasts the world’s biggest indoor bouldering wall, while spectators can watch the competition on a big screen in the park.
Councillor Isobel Bowler, Cabinet Member for Culture, Sport and Leisure at Sheffield City Council, said: “Cliffhanger is an action-packed weekend which showcases Sheffield’s distinctive offer as a city ideally located for adventurous sports. People come from across the UK to take part in the competitions and enjoy the events and activities on offer.
“It’s about inspiring people to test their limits, to try new activities and enjoy the great outdoors in Sheffield and the surrounding area. With the return to Millhouses Park, I’d particularly encourage people who haven’t been before to come and experience Cliffhanger this year.”
Cliffhanger is organised by Sheffield City Council in conjunction with Heason Events who expect more than 12,000 people to attend. As well as have-a-go activities the festival will be packed with demonstrations – everything from climbing to caving and biking to fell-running, orienteering, free running and scuba diving. There will be an orienteering course, trail races and demonstrations.
There will be more cycling attractions at this year’s event to celebrate the Tour de France coming to Sheffield.
Entertainment will also include a beer and wine tent and family-friendly fairground rides.
Event co-organiser Matt Heason said: “With a third of Sheffield’s boundary within the Peak District, the city has always been popular with climbers, mountain bikers, runners and cavers. Cliffhanger is the ideal place for people to come and try these activities out for themselves as well as see sportsmen and women compete at the highest level on our big screens.
“The event offers great value for money with 90 per cent of outdoor activities free of charge once you have paid your entry fee. We want to ensure the event is as affordable and accessible to all that’s why we have reduced the entry fee. People can make a whole weekend of it if they wish, with activities stretching across two days.
“We are delighted to be working with the Climbing Works this year and I’m sure everyone taking part in the competition will love the top-class facilities there.”
Tickets for this year’s event will cost £6 for adults and accompanied children aged under 16 can enter for free.
For more information about Cliffhanger 2014 visit www.cliff-hanger.co.uk.