Assam’s pride, John Mathaiuse Marak, has achieved a remarkable milestone by clinching the Gold medal at the prestigious Tata Steel Sports Climbing Championship 2025 (TSSCC) held in Jamshedpur. His exceptional performance in the speed climbing category has brought recognition not only to himself but also to Assam’s thriving sports community.
A Moment of Pride for Assam: Minister Nandita Garlosa Congratulates Marak
Following his spectacular victory, Assam’s Sports & Youth Welfare Minister, Nandita Garlosa, extended her heartfelt congratulations to John Mathaiuse Marak.
Taking to social media, she wrote, “Congratulations to John Mathaiuse Marak for achieving a remarkable feat in the speed competition held in Jamshedpur by winning Gold at the Tata Steel Sports Climbing Championship 2025. Wishing him more success in the days to come.”
This achievement has put Assam in the national spotlight, further encouraging young climbers and adventure sports enthusiasts in the state.
John Mathaiuse Marak’s Journey to Success
Hailing from Assam’s Garo community, John Mathaiuse Marak has been an active member of the Assam Rock and Sport Climbing Association. His dedication and commitment to sports climbing have been evident in his consistent performances across national competitions.
His recent Gold medal at the 28th IMF National Sports Climbing Championship 2025 in Bengaluru proved his mettle in the sport and set the stage for his victory at the Tata Steel Sports Climbing Championship 2025.
Tata Steel Sports Climbing Championship 2025: A Prestigious Platform
The Tata Steel Adventure Foundation (TSAF) hosted the 5th edition of the Tata Steel Sports Climbing Championship (TSSCC) 2025 at the TSAF Sport Climbing Academy, JRD Tata Sports Complex in Jamshedpur, from January 24 to 27, 2025.
This premier sport climbing event in India witnessed:
- Participation from over 270 athletes representing five countries.
- Three main climbing disciplines: Speed Climbing, Lead Climbing, and Bouldering.
- A competitive platform for amateur and professional climbers to test their skills at an international level.
Since its inception in 2019, the Tata Steel Sports Climbing Championship has grown into India’s top-tier climbing competition, providing a pathway for Indian climbers to compete on global platforms.
What Makes Sport Climbing a Growing Phenomenon in India?
Sport climbing has gained significant popularity over the years, especially after its inclusion in the Olympic Games. This dynamic sport challenges athletes in speed, strength, technique, and mental focus.
Three Disciplines of Sport Climbing
- Speed Climbing – Climbers race against the clock to reach the top of a 15-meter standardized climbing wall.
- Lead Climbing – Athletes climb a 15-meter route with an increasing level of difficulty within a time limit.
- Bouldering – Climbers tackle short but complex climbing problems on walls up to 4.5 meters without safety ropes.
John Mathaiuse Marak’s expertise in Speed Climbing has placed him among India’s top climbers, and his latest victory showcases his ability to excel at the national level.
The Future of Sport Climbing in Assam and India
With athletes like John Mathaiuse Marak bringing gold and glory to Assam, sport climbing is gaining traction in the region. Assam has immense potential to produce more world-class climbers, given the right training facilities, competitions, and infrastructure support.
To further encourage young climbers, the Assam Rock and Sport Climbing Association, along with the state government, can take the following initiatives:
- Establish state-of-the-art climbing gyms to provide professional training.
- Organize more regional and national-level climbing competitions to nurture talent.
- Provide financial and infrastructural support for athletes to compete internationally.
- Integrate sport climbing into school and college-level sports programs.
With sport climbing becoming more recognized in India’s sporting landscape, athletes like Marak are paving the way for future generations of climbers.
The Gold medal victory of John Mathaiuse Marak at the Tata Steel Sports Climbing Championship 2025 is a historic moment for Assam’s sporting community. His remarkable feat in speed climbing has further cemented his position among India’s top climbers.
With support from the Assam government, sports organizations, and climbing associations, Marak’s success story can inspire a new generation of climbers in Assam and across the country. His achievements serve as a reminder that with dedication, perseverance, and the right opportunities, athletes from every corner of India can shine on national and global platforms.
 in Jamshedpur. Read about his journey, achievements, and how sport climbing is growing in India.){kind=link}