New rules in sports climbing competitions

In December 2007 the International Federation of Sport Climbing approved a new World Cup competition rule whereby the two routes in the qualification round will no longer be climbed on-sight but flash. The new rule will come into effect in full in 2009 and although not mandatory in 2008, it will nevertheless be applied at the World Cup in Imst scheduled for 19-20 September.

This change may be good news for the athletes as it eliminates the need fo rlengthy isolation in this first round. The two qualification routes will be demonstrated by the route setter prior to the start of the competition, whereas the semifinal and final will be climbed on-sight.