Climbing · Worth knowing

Petra Pokorná Formanová and Martin Pokorný are accomplished route setters who bring distinct philosophies to climbing craft. Petra, who began route setting in an old gym and now works with diverse rock types including sandstone, limestone, and granite, designs technical and playful routes that prioritize technique and problem-solving over raw power. Martin, a climber for over 20 years who turned professional in 2015, blends technical precision with creative experimentation, often designing routes that make climbing inclusive by favoring cleverness over reach. Both draw inspiration from natural rock formations—particularly Czech sandstone and granite—and integrate those lessons into their gym setting work, creating diverse boulder problems and routes that engage climbers mentally and physically while accommodating all ability levels.

The Brno 2027 World Climbing Championships have unveiled their official branding and emblems ahead of the August 2027 event. The design, created by the London-based creative agency Matta, draws inspiration from Brno's cultural heritage, particularly the city's legendary Brno Dragon—actually a preserved Nile crocodile displayed in the Old Town Hall. The branding features distinct emblems for both the World Climbing Championship and World Climbing Para Championship, connected by a unified visual identity that incorporates Eastern European folk alphabet influences and a colour palette inspired by Brno's traditional symbols and the Czech flag. The event will serve as a qualification opportunity for the LA28 Olympic and Paralympic Games, bringing together the 20th World Climbing Championship and 10th World Climbing Para Championship in a nine-day competition.