Inside the Story: Arborists gearing up for intense Tree Climbing Competition in Utah
(KUTV) The best of the best in Utah are getting ready for the Tree Climbing Championship this weekend.
The competition features the best tree climbers and arborists in the state competing for the coveted title of "Master Climber."
"You need to be in pretty good shape. It's pretty taxing," said Mark Malmstrom, who has won the championship four times.
There are five different events in the competition: the secure foot lock, aerial rescue, work climb, throw line, and belayed speed climb.
"It's fun to do something that not a lot of people do or can do," said Cade Baker, one of the tree climbers.
When you climb trees for a living, there's something soothing about being high above the ground in touch with Mother Nature.
"I just love being in the trees, swinging around," said Kevan Tolman, a tree climber.
"Every day for us is a day at the park," added David Thuntell.
There is a winner for each of the five events. The top five advance to the Masters Challenge.
The Tree Climbing Championship is being held at Murray Park, 296 East Murray Park Avenue.
The events will take place on Friday and Saturday, June 9th and 10th.
For more information, visit this website.
