By: Women’s Fitness Asia
Breaking Barriers, Building a Community
Allez, Ale! is a dynamic, non-profit community built exclusively for female climbers. Founded by experienced climbers Ja Dueñas and Thea Sace, the initiative fosters an inclusive and empowering environment where women can push their limits, develop their skills, and cultivate a strong sense of camaraderie. With a combined climbing experience spanning over twenty years, the founders aim to create a space where mentorship, growth, and support thrive.
The name Allez, Ale! is a fusion of two languages: Allez is a French climbing term for encouragement, and Ale is a Filipino term for addressing women. Together, they embody the spirit of women uplifting each other in the climbing community.
Climbing Towards Greater Heights
Allez, Ale! offers a variety of programs that encourage skill-building, competition, outdoor adventures, and meaningful discussions within the climbing community:
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Ale! Nights: A weekly series designed to introduce and refine climbing techniques for beginners and intermediate climbers.
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Competitions: An all-female climbing competition, the first of its kind in the Philippines, now in its sixth edition since launching in June 2019.
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Outdoor Climbing Events: A biennial weekend adventure filled with outdoor climbing and bonding activities.
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Community Events: Regular gatherings, including panel discussions, social events, and climbing challenges.
A Month of Climbing, Connection, and Celebration
February and March will be a powerhouse of activities, uniting female climbers across different skill levels through engaging events:
Ale! Nights: Skill-Building Sessions
These four-week climbing sessions will focus on essential techniques, mental strategies, and route reading, led by experienced female climbers:
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Feb 13: Training for Competitions and Drills by Ja Dueñas Arreza
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Feb 20: Dynamic Movement by Yca Dizon
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Feb 27: Technical Movement by Thea Sace
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March 6: Mock Competition at The Bouldering Hive
Alescend Challenge: Climb Higher, Reach Further
A month-long challenge (March 1-31) where participants can climb at multiple gyms, track their progress, and win prizes.
Mixer: Connect and Inspire
A social event on March 1 at St. Patrick’s Pub (Kapitolyo, Pasig), offering a space for female climbers to meet, share experiences, and celebrate their passion for climbing.
Panel Discussion & International Women’s Day Celebration
An evening of insightful conversations on March 8 at Climb Central Manila, featuring talks on creating safe spaces, warm-up techniques, and inspiring stories from:
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Aly (LGBTQ+ representation in climbing)
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Jem (National Team and outdoor climbing)
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Nala (The social media climbing boom)
Route Setting Clinic: Shaping the Future of Climbing
A hands-on workshop on March 15 at Boulder World (MOA, Pasay), led by top route setters John Veloria, Mat Tabios, and Franz Lim, equips female climbers with the knowledge to design challenging and engaging routes.
Boulder Kweens: All-Female Bouldering Competition
A thrilling competition on March 22 at Boulder World (MOA, Pasay), featuring climbers of all skill levels, prizes, and a festive atmosphere with music, food, and drinks.
All-Female Kilter Board Session: Conquer the Wall
A session on March 29 at Power Up Alabang, led by Marga Luna, is designed to enhance technique, problem-solving, and mental resilience in a supportive environment.
Join the Movement
Allez, Ale! represents more than just a climbing community; it is a movement dedicated to empowering women in the sport. Through mentorship, support, and shared experiences, this initiative is breaking down barriers and inspiring the next generation of female climbers.
Join us in celebrating strength, skill, and sisterhood. Whether you’re a novice or an experienced climber, Allez, Ale! welcomes you to reach new heights and elevate the climbing community together. Embrace the journey, conquer the walls, and let your spirit soar!
