Comp FAQ
Learn about Comps at The Front
If you're new to a climbing comp or just new to The
Front, these will help explain the up's and down's of
Citizens' Events at The Front. Our goal is to make
these events inclusive for both experienced as well as
first-time comp goers. If you have any questions, just
stop by The Front Desk and ask, we'll be happy to help.
Registration
You can register before or when you check-in for the
event. Early-registering will typically save you a
few bucks plus speeds up your check-in. You'll use the
same online form if you register now or at The Front -
so do it now!
Check-in
Check-in opens about a hour before the comp starts.
If you haven't pre-registered, then you'll register at
check-in. We'll verify your name, waiver, division
and payment, then give your your score card and scoring
code (for the web based scoring).
Divisions
The divisions are the group of climbers you "compete"
with. The division are based on gender and age, or
gender and 'Open'. The 'Open' division is intended
for those climbing V7 and above and the age based
division is intended for the beginner and intermediate
climber. Each climber has the option to choose
age-based or open. However, if you sign up for the
age-based division, and consistently climb in the V7 and
above range, we'll call you out for sandbagging!
As for the age based divisions; we attempt to create
age groups that create an even distribution of climbers.
Based on previous events, we typically have more twenty
to early thirty year old climbers, so we divide this
group into more divisions. There's no fixed rule
and division may change for each event.
Problems
We typically have between 40 and 60 problems for each
event. Problems are set the day before the event; none
of the competitors have any experience with the
problems. Each problem has a scoring point value based
on its difficulty. The problems are numbered, but there
is no logic to their numbering - an easy climb might
have a high number, or there might be missing numbers.
The scores are generally between 0 and 1200, with 100s
values corresponding to the V-grade (i.e. a problem with
87 points is probably around a V0, one worth 567
is probably around V5).
Scoring
Each problem has a point value. When you
complete a problem (by grabbing the top rail), you
receive the point value less any 'fall value' as your
score for that problem. For each fall attempting a
problem, you subtract the fall-value from your final
score for that problem -- assuming you actually complete
the problem. The event fall-value is posted on
your score card and may differ between each event.
You can only score once for each problem.
Your final score is the sum of your top five problem
scores.
Computer Based Scoring
You'll enter your own scores on our web based scoring
system. This speeds up the whole process plus
reduces errors when we try to read your handwriting.
When you checked-in, we give you your scoring code.
With this code, you can enter your scores (actually you
just enter the problem number and number of falls, the
computer computes the correct score). Enter
your scores throughout the event. The computer
will automatically use your top scores for the final
score.
The Event
Events are a timed, typically three (3) hours.
It is your choice on the number and order of problems
you climb. You do not need to complete a problem
before attempting another problem, but you can only
score when you complete a problem.
First-Timer Strategies
Watch others. Pace yourself - remember, its a
timed event, not a race. Relax, rest. Have
fun! These are really non-competitive, community events.
Don't be intimidated by the fact that we call these
"competitions". Enter your scores frequently
-- save waiting in line at the end of the comp.
Etiquette
First and foremost, the Citizens' Events at The Front
are to be fun and to establish a sense on
camaraderie within the local climbing community. These
are a great way to meet and climb with those who share
your love of the sport. We encourage you to be
supportive of your fellow climber.
- Wait your turn and be courteous.
- Stay off the pads if you're not climbing.
- Be safe - don't walk, run, or climb under
others.
- Don't get frustrated.
- Stay positive and have fun!
Awards Ceremony
After the event closes and we compile the scores we
give out the good stuff. You gotta stay to win. A
majority of the big value items get raffled off (all
competitors receive a raffle ticket), and those who
place in their division receive recognition and some
special prizes.
