Another month, another SIBL competition. This time it was held in my second home – The Arch – my sweet local wall, where I’m developing the required climbing skills for a real hard-core rock climbing. Apologies for getting carried away about a climbing gym but for me it is a very special place where I always feel welcomed, see familiar faces and go to ease my mind from the imaginary worries of London town.
In this chilled atmosphere January’s competitors took the challenges with a smile on their faces. This time more than ever everyone came to spend some quality time with the others. Yes, that’s what happens when you enter The Arch, people instantly become friendly and relaxed.
It was easy for the little ones too. It’s not a big place so the parents can keep their distance and still observe their children’s movements. Sometimes I get the feeling adults should be looked after as children haven’t lost their instincts yet and fear is not a risk factor. That helps a lot in climbing!
Route setting was this time responsibility of pro climber & coach Gaz Parry and route setter & future pro climber Yann Genoux. I have to say that the final route was a well thought pain in the ass but it did get exciting and that’s what matters.
It was also amazing to see the Female finalists sharing the third place. I will never get enough of scenes like this where people just decide to forget about competitiveness and unnecessary ambition and share their success.
Next round is at Mile End climbing wall and although it’s in the neighborhood it will be my first visit there. Have no idea why I never went. Heard they have the tallest bouldering wall in the UK and this is a good sign.
Hopefully in Round 6 we’ll see more girlies battling with the male setting. Come on ladies, don’t be shy! We need to show the guys how it’s done – with style and grace. 
The next one will be the last for this year so I’ll try to get you a bonus and interview the overall male winner. Finger crossed he will agree.
Happy climbing and don’t forget to keep it real.
Photos on Flikr
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