Comp FAQ
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.
 

You can register before or when you check-in for the event.  Pre-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 60 and 80 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.

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".

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!

The 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.

The Schwag
We've been told many times that The Front has the best schwag out of any citizens' event around. For the 2006/2007 season, we've got around $3500 for each comp to give out!!! Please remember to support those companies that support the climbing community.  Each event may have a different set of sponsors. Whenever you purchase something from a sponsor, tell'em you saw their sponsorship at The Front (duh, don't you want all this great schwag at the event?)

What Others Have to Say About Comps at The Front

"...everyone that I was climbing with had a great time and said that they couldn't wait for the next comp."

"I loved the comp, the problems were interesting it seemed like there was pretty much something for everyone."

"The Front always hosts great comps...Deadpoint was right up there with the best. Plus, the schwag is killer, better than any comp I've attended."