HOLLAND TOWNSHIP, Mich. (WOOD) — A new rock climbing facility is under construction in Holland Township and is expected to open its doors in February 2024.
Shift Climbing will be located at 12345 James St., just off US-31, inside the Westshore Mall. The facility will be positioned next to the Holland Township Community Center, which is also slated to open in the coming year.
The gym will feature 5,100 square feet of climbing space, offering 100 to 150 climbing routes. The team plans to refresh about one-fifth of the routes weekly to keep the experience fresh for visitors. In addition to climbing, the facility will include a café in collaboration with Ferris, a boutique fitness center, and other amenities.
Co-founder Jack Ogilvie sees Shift Climbing as a valuable addition to the Holland community, particularly during Michigan’s cold winters. “While winter is a great time to be outside, snow conditions can be unpredictable,” Ogilvie said. “This gym will provide a reliable indoor option for climbing enthusiasts year-round.” He also noted that the Holland area, known for its outdoor activities like skiing and biking, lacks climbing facilities, and Shift Climbing will help fill that gap.
The facility will cater to climbers of all experience levels, from beginners to seasoned veterans. Ogilvie emphasized the importance of creating a welcoming atmosphere for newcomers, acknowledging that stepping into a climbing gym for the first time can be daunting. The gym’s design will ensure a supportive environment for those just starting out.
For experienced climbers, the gym promises more advanced routes that will challenge their skills. Jonathan Brandt, Ogilvie’s partner, is one of the few level-five route setters in the country. His high-level expertise will ensure that the gym’s terrain pushes even the most skilled climbers to improve.
“We’ll have routes that encourage creative problem-solving and technical movement,” Ogilvie explained. “Jonathan has set routes for some of the top climbers in the sport, so we’re confident the gym will offer a truly exciting challenge for advanced climbers.”
Shift Climbing will offer a variety of membership options, including monthly memberships, punch cards, and pay-as-you-go drop-in rates. The gym will also create an access fund to help those who may not be able to afford membership but wish to climb.
Ogilvie emphasized that the mission of the business isn’t financial gain but to bring something unique and beneficial to the community. “Our goal is to provide an amazing experience for our employees and the local community,” he said. “We want climbing to be accessible to everyone, regardless of their circumstances.”
Having previously founded a business that later became employee-owned, Ogilvie is passionate about fostering a positive work environment. “When people love what they do, it enriches their lives, and that’s something I’m deeply committed to,” he said.
In the lead-up to its official opening, Shift Climbing will host events, including a free screening of The Devil’s Climb at Sperry’s Moviehouse on December 17. As the opening date approaches, the gym will also hold events where prospective climbers can try out the facilities before it opens to the public in February.
“We’re excited to welcome people in February, but in the meantime, stay tuned for upcoming events,” Ogilvie said.
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