Both speed and lead competitions will take place at the event in South Tyrol over two days of action.

It follows the season opener in Saas-Fee in Switzerland last weekend.

South Korea's Han Na Rai Song and Russia's Alexey Dengin won the women's and men's lead events respectively on that occasion, with Russians Ekaterina Feoktistova and Nikolai Kuzovlev clinching the speed honours.

Difficult conditions have been predicted for the competitors in Rabenstein.

"The venue is popular because of its unique structure," said competition organiser Reinhard Graf. 

"Ice climbers discover a variety of challenges. 

"There is a route which suits everyone.

"We put a lot of emphasis on the comfort of athletes.

"Due to the size of the structure many routes can be built simultaneously, which in turn makes it possible to orchestrate an interesting competition. 

"Furthermore, we push for much of the event to be held on actual ice. 

"The 25-metre-high tower offers great possibilities for our 'speed show.'"

Speed finals will be held tomorrow with lead taking place on Saturday (January 27).