Urban Friction, originally established as an outdoor climbing facilitator, has evolved into a pivotal force in Namibia’s climbing scene under the new leadership of David Bishop.
Since taking over in March, he has infused fresh energy into the company, focusing on expanding both Urban Friction and the popularity of sport climbing across the country.
After years working in the radio industry as a presenter, marketer and events and sponsorship coordinator, Bishop decided it was time for a dynamic change, and he became the owner of Urban Friction.
It has transitioned to include a state-of-the-art climbing gym, catering to enthusiasts who prefer the convenience and accessibility of indoor climbing.
Currently, the facility stands virtually unchallenged in Namibia’s climbing industry, with only a couple of coastal climbing walls operating under different models.
What distinguishes Urban Friction from other climbing entities in the country is its commitment to providing modern indoor climbing facilities, amid a landscape largely devoid of such amenities.
“We aim to bridge the gap between outdoor enthusiasts and those who seek the convenience of indoor facilities,” he said.
The facility not only serves as a hub for climbing enthusiasts, but also actively contributes to community initiatives. Recognising the need to expand climbing awareness in Namibia, Bishop and his team are involved in promoting the sport.
“We’re not just about climbing; we’re about community, Urban Friction has initiated partnerships with local youth empowerment organisations and community upliftment projects, aiming to introduce climbing as a recreational and potentially competitive sport for young Namibians,” he said.
Moreover, the facility is broadening its appeal by exploring collaborations with a yoga company to offer classes at its premises.
This initiative aims to create a holistic wellness environment, complementing the physical challenges of climbing with mental and spiritual well-being practices.
“We hosted a super-successful event on International Women’s Day, where female climbers were allowed to climb for free – and more than 100 ladies attended the event. The vast majority of them had never climbed before, and they all had a great time. We also offer climbing classes for children in the afternoons and these are growing in popularity and have just offered an over-subscribed holiday camp where children come and spend the afternoon, with us, play games, learn about the proper tying of knots and belaying techniques, and do a lot of climbing,” he said.
“With few regular and active climbers in the country, it is hard to save enough money to expand the way we would like to. Buying climbing gear for the gym and maintaining the gear, ropes and physical wall climbing infrastructure is costly. We are looking at an exciting ‘who can climb the most’ event in August and a competition in September, both of which will be open to everyone. We also want to expand our bouldering offer and build some new walls on our premises,” he added.
The climbing can be for both fun and fitness, as they welcome any climbing activity, whether it is a children’s birthday party, doing something differently in Windhoek, or someone who wants to take it seriously as a sport or hobby.
Climbing offers a full-body workout, and requires focus and concentration, so it is ideal for both young and old. It can be tough at first, but you build up strength and fitness quickly.
“As I said earlier, it is also an Olympic sport, and with the Namibia Sport Climbing Federation in the process of being registered with the Sports Commission, there are boundless opportunities for climbers to get to the point where they can represent Namibia at international competitions,” said Bishop.
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