Format & Scoring system for ‘The Rory”

 In principle the scoring is fairly simple. 

1. Points are awarded for each route that is completed for both bolted routes and bouldering and for reaching certain destinations on the mountain (either through just hiking or when getting to a certain boulder for climbing).
2. For the climbing components each climber in the team must climb each route to get both the points.  On bolts, that means each person must lead the route cleanly ie: no hanging on bolts in any way, if the climber falls off, he/she must lower all the way to the ground and start again. 
3. It is however not necessary for each team member to do every route, but for safety the partners should never split on the mountain.  (no running up the mountain on your own and letting your partner boulder at the bottom.)
4. The number of points per route increases per the length of the route and the grade of the route.  There are additional points for getting say to the top of the mountain first. 
5. More points are scored for flashing routes.  Ie:  in the case of sport routes, it means if you have never been on the route before and you get up first time without falling.  In the case of bouldering you get the flash points if you have never sent the problem before.  In hiking, you get the “flash” points for never having been to a certain point before.  This system puts those very familiar with the area on par to those less familiar with the routes and area (and believe us, it counts a lot).
6. (There is no handicap system.  The best man/lady wins on merit).
7. The time period of the whole challenge is 7hrs, and anyone arriving late will have penalties.

There is a fully comprehensive list of rules available on the RLMC website, and a full briefing session on rule, scoring and score cards on Friday 4th March at 19h30 which is compulsory for participants to attend. 

Climbing, Bouldering and Hiking Challenges

The ‘serious’ part of the Challenge will consist of these 3 disciplines. For each of these, points will be scored and added up for a final total score. See the score-sheet for a breakdown of the points. Winners will be based on the highest score. The winning team will be presented with the Rory Lowther Memorial Challenge Floating Trophy.

Teams

Competitors will be required to enter in a team of 2 people; no one will be allowed to compete on their own. Disciplines are done in accordance with the safety rules of the event. Teams can choose which individual or combination challenge they wish to do. This is to say that competitors who are only interested in (for example) Bouldering can just boulder and potentially win, likewise with Sport Climbing and Hiking / Trail Running.

Climbing

Will start at 08h00 and end at 15h00 Points will be awarded per route as per schedule. The style of climbing is to be leading with no dogging (hanging on bolts) or taking rests etc. Only a clean ascent to the top will count for points. Normal safety procedures are to be followed. Additional points will be added for flash ascents.

Bouldering

Will start at 08h00and end at 15h00 Points will be awarded per problem as per schedule. Only completed ascents will be counted. Boulderers may attempt the problem as many times as they wish. In choosing to not complete a chosen problem from set start to set finish, boulderers will lose assigned score for that problem. Challengers must be spotted at all times. Please read the Route Guide carefully noting sit starts and finishing holds.

Hiking / Trail Running

Will start at 08h00 and end at 15h00 Challengers reaching specific points along the Ibis Hiking Trail. Challengers may go to any flag along the trail, as they choose, if bouldering and climbing. Hiking will be a perfect opportunity for Challengers to participate in the Photographic Competition.

INAPPROPRIATE TEAM NAMES

Inapproriate or suggestive TEAM NAMES will not be accepted. Should the Registration committee deem your Team Name unsuitable, your will be asked to find another name.

SWEARING & BAD LANGUAGE

The Rory Committee received complaints regarding the swearing and bad language used by some climbers whilst climbing - We appeal to all concerned to refrain from the use of bad language in front of others who do not wish to hear it. Teams using bad language during the challenge will be penalised.

NB

It will be important for challengers to come up with strategies for their team so that according to their skill, knowledge of the area, strengths and weaknesses they can maximize their point earning potential when they are out there.

INFORMATION IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE

RULES

SAFETY

Bouldering

No competitor is allowed to attempt a boulder problem without having someone (their team mate) correctly spotting them for the full duration of the attempt. Due to the soft nature of the sandstone in this particular area, extra care must be taken when climbing. Seemingly solid rock can break.

Sport Climbing

The climber must clip every bolt on the route he/she is climbing; this responsibility will be shared with the active climber’s team mate i.e. Belayer. Routes must be cleaned in a correct and safe manner. Belayers must concentrate on their climber (team mate) while he/she is climbing. Helmets to be worn at all times. Should any of the above safety rules be broken, the perpetrator/s will be disqualified immediately, and asked to leave the competition area. There will be marshals walking around so watch out.

Hiking / Trail Running

The Judges decision is final !

Cancellation of Event

In the event of dangerous weather, a decision by the Committee / Organizers and Search & Rescue will be taken as to the cancellation / postponement of the event. Should the decision be taken to cancel the event, no refunds will be given.