14th November 2008
In light of the recent spate of super hard trad climbing ascents in the UK we've decided to hold a 'Question Time' style debate at ShAFF to discuss the unique British Grading system. To some it's the perfect system, explaining more about a route than any other, but to others, especially when it comes to higher end grades, it clouds things and causes confusion. Should cutting-edge ascencionists be grading for the hypothetical on-sight at the same time as having the said ascent videod and thereby rendering the pure on-sight impossible to any viewers? Does a climber's 'experience' on a route affect its grade? Just how responsible are the media and sponsors when it comes to the rush of reporting a major new route, and what effect have internet forums had on their moderation?
On Sunday 1st March at ShAFF Nick Colton of the BMC will chair a debate between the following panel of cutting edge climbers:
- John Arran | Website
- Dave Birkett
- Lucy Creamer Website | Blog
- Jack Geldard | Website (editor)
- Nic Sellers
- Steve McClure
- John Dunne
- James Pearson | Blog
