What is Routesetting in climbing? Why is it so unique?
Routesetting is the art of putting holds on the wall in a specific manner so that they create a challenging yet rewarding participant experience and correspond to a specific difficulty level.
Who are the Routesetters and what are their roles?
Head Route Setter (H.R.S.)
- The Head Route Setter is the primary person responsible for organizing, and leading the team of Route Setters, in collaboration with the Assistant Head Route Setter, toward the common goal of providing the highest level climbing competition for our Athletes.
- Complete Job Decription
Assistant Head Routesetter (A.H.R.S.)
- The Assistant Head Route Setter (A.H.R.S.) is the secondary person responsible for organizing, and leading the team of Route Setters, under the leadership of the Head Route Setter (H.R.S.), toward the common goal of providing the highest level climbing competition for our Athletes.
For certain events the A.H.R.S. may be used as an educator, or evaluator to allow room for new, or first time Head Route Setters to have the opportunity to lead the team. In this case it is expected that the A.H.R.S. will provide unwavering support, and help to the H.R.S. to insure a high quality event, and the development of the entire Route Setting Team. - Complete Job Description
Routesetter
- The Route Setter is an integral member of the Route Setting team. Under the direction of the Head Route Setter (H.R.S.) and the Assistant Head Route Setter (A.H.R.S.) Their job is to propose and test boulders and routes for CEC competitions and training events. The Route Setter should be hard working, willing to learn, and happy to take direction from the leadership team. The Route Setter is to help the team move toward the common goal of providing the highest level climbing competition for our athletes.
- Complete Job Descriptions
Pathway – how do I get about doing these roles?
Local Level – trainings? Commercial vs Competition?
Provincial Level – get in touch with your Provincial or Territorial Sport Organization (PTSO) to discover their opportunities for route setting involvement. Many PTSO also have Route Setting Committees you could get involved with.
National Level –
Event Targets and Evaluation
CEC uses the concept of “event targets” to guide the route setting team
Other Resources
IFSC Route Setting Guide
