The University of North Georgia held its first Boulder Bash of the semester on Thursday, Aug. 29. This brought together climbing enthusiasts for an exciting evening of bouldering. It was held in the Recreation Department on the Dahlonega Campus from 6-8 p.m.

It featured climbers tackling a variety of challenging climbing routes, known as problems, on walls that reached heights of up to 20 feet. This was designed to showcase the sport of bouldering and offered students a chance to test their skills on different problems tailored to all experience levels.

The Boulder Bash provides a place for climbers to not only challenge themselves but also to connect with others who share a passion for the sport.

“It’s a physical and mental exercise, but it’s also a community where we all love it, and it’s fun for us. The people are what keep you coming back more than anything.” – Trenton Tinney, President of the Rock Climbing Club 

During the event, climbers of all abilities engaged with a range of climbing problems. Each problem presented its own unique challenge. The Boulder Bash offered not only a community engaging experience, but a competition for students to participate in as well.

The competitive aspect of the Bash encouraged participants to complete as many problems as possible within the allotted time frame.

Each monthly Boulder Bash features different sets of climbing problems, ensuring that every experience brings something new to the table. “Each boulder problem is something new, so that way climbers who come here tonight all have something fresh, something new,” Tinney explained.

Boulder Bash also fosters a sense of community among climbers. As climbers attempt to tackle these tough routes, they share tips, encouragement, and excitement. “We’re all working on the same heinous problems at the same time and can struggle with it together,” Tinney said.

Zach Enright, Vice President of the Rock Climbing Club, also highlighted its welcoming nature. “It’s about getting anyone who’s even interested in climbing to come out knowing that there are going to be people that are there to help them,” he said.

The Boulder Bash at UNG serves not only as an opportunity to showcase climbing talent but also as a celebration of the sport and its community. These are held monthly, with various specialty events planned throughout the year to keep the climbing community engaged and excited.