Boulder Bash 2022 Set

Lititz recROC coordinator Corey Pickel described the upcoming Boulder Bash indoor climbing competition as a combination of problem solving and an athletic event.

"We get more than 40 problems up there (on the climbing wall) for the event," explained Pickel. A problem is the configuration that helps a climber move from the floor to the top of climbing wall using specific hand and foot holds.

"So, for example, on the wall here there's a green one with two pieces of tape that shows where your hand placement should be for the beginning of the problem," pointed out Pickel, who noted that climbers will need to work with a specific color to reach the top. "Each problem has a point system attached, but competitors don't know what that is," Pickel explained, adding that the number of attempts to complete the problem is tracked and points are added up to determine the winners. Event head setter Doc Beverly works with a team to create fresh problems.

The competition, which will be held at the recROC, 201 Rock Lititz Blvd., Suite 10, Lititz, on Saturday, Sept. 10, will feature advanced, intermediate, and beginner contests. Registration on the day of the event will open at 9 a.m. Pickel said that the competition usually begins at 9:30 a.m. and that each competitive group takes about an hour to complete its climbs. About 75 competitors took part in the 2021 event. "We have had a great turnout the last few years," said Pickel, who noted that some climbers travel a distance to take part but that many competitors are local. Male and female winners are named in each category. Prizes for winners have included tension boards climbers can use to train at home and crash pads for outdoor climbing. "People tend to appreciate (equipment) more, and (those prizes) entice some of the stronger climbers to come participate," said Pickel.

According to Pickel, spectators are welcome for a nominal fee, which includes free coffee, longjohns, and door prizes, which are often gift cards donated by local businesses.

Pickel, who was tapped to run the recROC in 2019, pointed out that this is the sixth year for the Boulder Bash competition, which had originally been held each April. When COVID-19 restrictions delayed the 2020 event, the competition was moved to September. Pickel has been pleased with the growth of the competition and the overall use of the recROC center in recent years. "COVID was a major curveball, but with our committed members and staff we got through it," he said. "I feel really blessed that we have been able to grow," he said, noting the location generally has more than 100 visitors on a regular weekday.

To prepare for the competition, teardown and cleaning of the wall and holds will begin on Tuesday, Sept. 6. From that point, the wall will be shut down until the competition. Pickel explained that this is to make sure that all competitors have the same amount of time to work the problems.

Readers who are interested in taking part in the Boulder Bash may visit http://www.lititzrecroc.com/events or call 717-626-5096.