Climbing (by the rules)

After entering the ABS Regional at the BRC this past Saturday I learned one important lesson, you have got to play by the rules:

Rule #1. The competition routes are prize possessions created by a highly skilled group of route setters. These routes are so important that they will be completely ruined (or spontaneously combust) if they are viewed before the designated climbing period.
Rule #2. Isolation is an integral part of the competition scene. Being the absolute last person to climb is not the best position to be in. Also, isolation is designed to be as boring as possible (should have brought my ipod or a copy of the Rock Warriors Way). No cell phones, VIDEO CAMERAS, or any contact with the outside world. If you enter isolation too early or violate any of the rules you will be isolated to a tree outside (see pending video).
Rule #3. Kids five to ten years younger than you will climb exponentially harder than you.
Rule #4. All indoor competitions must occur on days when it is absolutely beautiful outside.
Rule #5. Climbing parents exist to support their future climbing star, fortunately they are not as psychotic as soccer moms and dads.

Despite all of these strict regulations, the comp was super fun. I found competition onsight climbing is great mental training for harder routes outside. I recommend that everyone compete at least once in their lives to understand this new facet of climbing. Take comp climbing for what it is and don't over think it. Just go into it with a positive mindset and have fun. Overall the BRC did a great job of putting on this event together. Everyone should head over there to check them out.