The IFSC Climbing World Cup in Kraków, Poland hosted competitors from around the world at this year's fourth Speed World Cup competition. Here’s what some of the top-performing athletes had to say following each round.

SPEED QUALIFICATIONS

Natalia Kalucka of Poland – second in women's event with 6.48:

“After the practice round I had to go back home because it didn’t go well for me. But I spoke with my psychologist after that, and I’m very proud of myself because this competition was very hard for me, mentally and emotionally. Friction is not good on the wall, and to complete the Tomoa Skip is very hard. It was a big challenge today, and I’m very proud of myself.”

Michael Hom of the USA – sixth in men's event with 5.09:

“My first race felt pretty good. I’m okay that I fell in the second one as I was kind of pushing it, because I knew I had a good time in my first one. Recently my goal has been to get a sub-5 in my first run and then push on the second one. I’m feeling pretty good for the final.”

PRE-EVENT

Sam Watson of the USA:

“I feel really lucky to be in Poland, it’s a really cool place and it’s my first time in the country."

“The venue looks amazing. The city of Krakow, walking around, it’s such a cool, old town, and this venue - the square, the backdrop, it all looks amazing.”

Natalia Kalucka of Poland

“To be honest I’m a little bit nervous because I want to showcase my level to my home crowd. But I think I am ready because I’ve got a lot of experience in climbing now.”

“I think it will be crazy. I think the crowd is quite specific in Poland, but quite friendly. I think they will give a bit more support to the Polish athletes so it will be a good motivation for us Polish climbers.”

“My main goal is to focus on my personal performance. The first part of the season was a little hard for me as I feel I did quite a few little mistakes, so I want to only show the best of me during the competition.”