by Christi Mathis
CARBONDALE, Ill. — Climb your way out of the winter chill and blues at Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s fun, Valentine’s-themed climbing competition, Love at First Onsight.
The event is happening Feb. 10, and anyone age 16 or older, of any skill level, is welcome to participate. The competition is open to SIU students, Rec Center members and the entire community.
The 10th annual Love at First Onsight will be at the Student Recreation Center’s Bouldering Cave in the east gym area. It’s similar to a climbing wall but with enhanced features and wall designs. Recreational Sports and Services and Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center are sponsoring the climbing adventure contest.
Compete for prizes
Climbers will compete in four different V-scale skill divisions:
- Beginner, V0-V2.
- Intermediate, V3-V4.
- Advanced, V5-V6.
- Elite, V6+.
Climbers will be grouped into heats and will compete for the best scores possible. The top three competitors in each division will advance to the final round, and prizes will be awarded to the winners. Check-in begins at 10 a.m., and open climbing runs are from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. The competition finals are at 2:30 p.m. followed by an awards ceremony.
Sign up now
Participants are encouraged to sign up in advance but can also register at the Love at First Onsight event. The cost is $40. Sign up online. Commemorative T-shirts can be purchased for $15.
For more information, contact Jake Pasdertz, program assistant, at jakob.pasdertz@siu.edu.