Helping Ukrainian climbing gym in Kharkov

Hello,

This fundraiser is managed by Margarita and Ksenia Zakharova, two of Olek’s daughters, both of whom have climbed for the Ukrainian National Team. You can learn more about Margarita, Ksenia, and Oleks’ stories in the recent Reel Rock film, Climbing Never Die.

We have a climbing center "Vertical" - a 15 m high climbing wall (open wall) and a bouldering gym.

Vertical is a climbing gym located in the city of Kharkiv, in Eastern Ukraine, founded by Oleksandr Zakolodny, the climbing legend turned Ukrainian soldier featured in the REEL ROCK film Climbing Never Die. The gym, also featured in the film, hosts many Ukrainian children for training and competitions, and coordinates trips for children and adults to climb outside as well. Oleks was killed in combat in 2023, but his memory and spirit live on through the gym’s impact on the Ukrainian climbing community.

Since Oleks’ death, Vertical continues to be a refuge for climbers, but as Russia continues its relentless attacks on the Kharkiv region, access to safe climbing and adequate resources is under constant threat. Vertical needs the help of the broader climbing community now more than ever. 

In order for the climbing wall to continue operating, Vertical needs funds to carry out day-to-day management and maintenance of the gym, such as purchasing new equipment, hosting competitions and climbing events, and renovations and repairs.

It is vitally important that climbing continues to exist in Ukraine, that children continue to climb, stay healthy, and continue thriving as  athletes during these difficult times. Any funds you are willing to donate would be greatly appreciated, and will be put directly towards efforts of keeping Vertical open and available to any Ukrainian who wishes to climb.

In order for the climbing wall to continue operating, we have to carry out technical work every year (strengthening the structure, painting, repairing the roof, mats, purchasing new equipment and much more). If you have the opportunity to support sports in our region, we will be very grateful. We could give more people the opportunity to exercise and help them recover physically and mentally.

Since now we have no opportunity to receive funding from the country, we ask for your help, this is very important for us, this is a big deal in our lives, and we will continue to do this no matter what.

Please write me with any questions. Thank you for everything.