This past weekend, our team from The Arborist Store had the privilege of attending the Ontario Tree Climbing Competition (OTCC) at Lake Ontario Park in Kingston.

The OTCC is always a special event on the arborist calendar. It’s a gathering where climbers from across the province come together to showcase their skills, share knowledge, and celebrate the craft of tree work. For us, it’s also an opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces, meet new members of the community, and cheer on the athletes pushing themselves high into the canopy.

From the moment we arrived, the energy was contagious. The sound of encouragement carried across the park as climbers tackled each challenge with focus and determination. Between the events, we caught up with old friends, swapped stories with new ones, and handed out some great Arborist Store swag to keep the spirit high.

Of course, no competition is complete without recognizing the climbers who stood out. A huge congratulations goes to:

• Krista Strating – a standout performer and a familiar name in the climbing community.
• Cody Menken – for an impressive showing and well-deserved win.
• Scotty Inglis – recipient of the Spirit of the Competition Award, a recognition that speaks to not just skill, but the heart and camaraderie that make this community special.

Their achievements highlight the dedication, training, and passion that arborists bring to their work every day.

Competitions like the OTCC remind us why we love being part of the arborist community. They’re not just about crowning winners - —they’re about celebrating the talent, dedication, and connections that grow stronger year after year. Whether you’re climbing, judging, volunteering, or simply cheering from the sidelines, every role contributes to the sense of community that defines our industry.

We left Kingston inspired, grateful, and more connected than ever. Congratulations again to all the competitors — every climber who stepped onto the field is helping raise the bar for arboriculture in Ontario.

We can’t wait to see everyone at the next climb!

— The Arborist Store Team