Climber, before you press send, in the hopes of coming to the Dominion Energy Riverrock Boulder Bash to send . . . . 

This event is different and has a culture all its own.  There simply is no other event like it in the world and we pride ourselves on that. We hesitate to simply call it a "comp" because it isn't just that, it's more.  The event organizers get it, the setters get it, the athletes get it and as a result - thousands of spectators get it. 

Here's what makes it what it is:  

·       The Comradery.  There's always been a mix of pro / national champs rubbing elbows with the best our local community has to offer.  Once someone competes at the Dominion Energy Riverock Boulder Bash, it is not uncommon for them to make the pilgrimage back to Richmond year after year because THEY LOVE THE FEEL.  No one brings their coach but everyone sits in the grass at the front of the Cages and screams for their fellow athletes. Condie, Lightner, Grupper, Hanna, Raboutou, Coleman, DiGulian, Webb, Payne, Woods, Martin and Robinson. 

·       Cages.  No plywood walls, just 30 enormous volumes suspended in (2) cages constructed with 37,000 pounds of steel.  The cages are 35 feet deep and the top-out height is 21 feet.  Athletes can only see a fraction of the problem / holds at any given time.  The cages beg creativity and dynamic movement.

·      The Venue.  A unique festival atmosphere that overlooks the Richmond City Skyline and the mighty James River.  Weather is always a factor.  

·      The Spectators.  The entire event sees more than 100,000 spectators throughout the weekend.  The vast majority have little to no personal experience in climbing.  They, however, are not shy about sharing their awe and stoke for the ability of our athletes who try and succeed.  This means it is not just a comp, it is a show.

·      The Music.  It's too loud and there is an effort to make as much of the playlist new to the spectators as possible.  Music contributes to the unique nature. 

·      The Announcer.  He does not know a single thing about climbing, sounds like he's announcing a tractor pull and known to poke fun of climbers, while they are climbing.  

·      The Lights.  Should you make it to Finals, two of the rounds of climbing will take place at night under rave-worthy articulating lights.