Muscat: The cliffs of Barr Al Jissah came alive on October 25 as Oman hosted the second edition of the Deep Water Solo Friendly Open, drawing climbers from across the Gulf, Europe, and beyond for a day of competition, courage and community.
Against the dramatic backdrop of Muscat’s coastline, athletes arrived at Bandar Al Rowdha Marina before setting off aboard traditional dhows to the competition site. By mid-morning, the turquoise waters below the cliffs were alive with shouts, splashes, and cheers as climbers tested their strength and nerve on the sheer limestone walls rising straight out of the sea.
Deep Water Soloing, or Psicobloc, is climbing in its purest form. Without ropes or harnesses, competitors rely entirely on technique, power and composure, with only the ocean below to break their fall. For spectators following by boat, the sight of climbers pushing through crux moves before plunging into the water made for an unforgettable spectacle.
This year’s event brought together participants from 16 nations and showcased the increasingly international character of Oman’s adventure sports scene. Christian Medina from Ecuador claimed first place in the men’s category, followed by Saud al Zohli of Oman and Rob Lowe from the United Kingdom. In the women’s division, Magdalena Nowak of Poland took the top
spot, with Ilia and Lavi, both from Russia, placing second and third.
“The energy this year was incredible — the community, the level of competition, and the shared love for the sport,” said Issam al Busaidy, who has been instrumental in building Oman’s Deep Water Solo community.
“Muscat might be the only capital city in the world where you can climb high-quality DWS routes right within city limits.”
The event builds on a legacy that began in 2017, when Read Macadam and world-renowned climber Chris Sharma introduced the first Psicobloc competition in the Middle East. That pioneering effort inspired a new generation of climbers and helped establish Oman as a natural playground for those seeking authentic, outdoor challenges.
Since then, the Deep Water Solo scene has evolved from a small group of enthusiasts into a growing regional movement. Regular community climbs, training initiatives and international collaborations have contributed to Oman’s reputation as a hub for adventure tourism. Local organisations and sponsors have also played a key role in providing logistical support, safety
infrastructure and promotion, ensuring that the event maintains international standards while preserving its grassroots spirit.
The 2025 edition concluded with a prize ceremony and community gathering at Bandar Al Rowdha Marina, where participants and supporters celebrated a day marked by camaraderie, sportsmanship and shared passion. Organisers said the growing international turnout underscores Oman’s rising profile as a destination for adventure sports. With each successful edition, the Deep Water Solo Friendly Open continues to strengthen its position as one of the region’s most distinctive and inclusive climbing competitions.
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