FLAILFEST 101: THE TOP 13 FAQS ABOUT OUR BOULDERING COMP

We are gearing up for FlailFest, the bouldering competition we’re hosting on Saturday, November 11th, and we’ve got all of your questions answered HERE. Want to know just the basics? Check out our initial announcement. Plus - it’s time to register!

• Why ‘FlailFest’?

  Flailing is falling off when climbing and is common in all bouldering feats. Overcome your "Flail" to reach the top.

• Will your gym be open the day of this competition for any regular climbing?

  No, as the event will take up the entire gym.

• Can my kids climb upstairs while the comp is going on?

  Yes, if they are supervised and are members. We won’t be selling any day passes on comp day.

• Who are the judges and how do you get to be one?

  Staff and volunteers will be the event judges. Their role is to verify that the climber makes it to the top of the route and uses only the specified colored holds. There are a few more rules to explain but it could be done in about 10-15 minutes. If you are interested in being a judge, please reach out!

• What is the difference between the ‘Onsight’ final round and the ‘Redpoint’ first round?

  Onsight is a common climbing term that means the climber finishes the boulder problem without falling and with no prior knowledge, view, or comment about the problem . They do the route "on first sight". The competitors of the Onsight finals will have no prior knowledge of the three climbs they will attempt. The rest of the competition is Redpoint style which means they can see, hear about, watch others climb, and try the problems multiple times themselves.

• Will you allow walk-in registrations the day of the event?

  Yes! It’s possible the comp slots will fill up, so we encourage you to register EARLY.

• How exactly will the event work?

  Our dedicated route setters will set a plethora of challenging boulder problems , each assigned a clear point value.

  On competition day, climbers can attempt any boulder problem within the set time frame.

  Judges will be stationed at climbing areas to verify climbs, initial competitors’ cards, and track scores.

  At the end of the ‘Redpoint’ style first round, climbers will tally their highest five point-value climbs to calculate their final score.

  Competitors will submit their point tally cards, and judges will determine the top competitors.

  The top male & female competitors in each of the 5 age/skill level categories will receive awards. Additionally, the five highest-scoring OPEN male and female climbers will advance to the ‘Onsight’ finals round.

  The intermission will provide time for climbers to relax, eat, and socialize.

  During this break, the final problems will be set for the top OPEN competitors. We’ll gather for a heart-pounding final as the competitors climb the three new boulder problems, with winners selected based on route completion or progress.

  The five top male & female OPEN competitors will receive awards, with the largest awards going to the top finishers.

  Separate points are earned by the top OPEN finishers that determine their qualification in the Idaho Climbing Championship series, and Idaho residents can continue on to the Bouldering finals at the Boise Commons gym in December.

• How do I know what category to register for in the 18-39 division?

  Participants self-select the appropriate category to compete in based on their typical Redpoint abilities. For example, if you are able to typically climb up to V5, you should select the Intermediate category. If you are able to typically climb up to V6, you may choose to be in the Intermediate or Advanced category.

  Please do not “sandbag” your ability to place higher in a category by choosing to compete in a category that is lower than your typical ability. You risk disqualification or being bumped up a category if we notice this happening.

• How do I know if I should compete in the OPEN division?

  If you can typically climb V8 and higher, we recommend that you choose the OPEN division.

  Open athletes compete at the highest level and are the only competitors to earn points in the Idaho State Series. They are also the contenders for the best prizes.

• Is there a fee to be a spectator?

  No! Spectating is free of charge. Please come and support your fellow climbers.

• Can spectators climb during the intermission?

  No. This day is reserved for event competitors. However, parents can let their (12 and under) children climb upstairs on the mezzanine if they are supervised and are already members with signed waivers. No day passes will be sold on competition day.

• Do spectators have to sign waivers?

  No, but they cannot climb or use any of the fitness equipment.

• How will you know who is a competitor and who is a spectator?

  We haven’t finalized the specifics, but will likely use wristbands to identify competitors.

Register by November 8th to secure your spot!

Member-only promo code ‘Compmember10’ can be applied to registration for discount at checkout.

Prepare for your first visit ⬇️