Local Sports Calendar

Climb out of your winter doldrums at Southern Illinois University Carbondale’s Valentine’s-themed climbing competition, Love at First Onsight.

The event is slated for Saturday, February 11, and anyone age 18 or older, of any skill level, is welcome to participate.

The eighth annual Love at First Onsight features the Student Recreation Center’s Bouldering Cave, which is similar to a climbing wall, but with enhanced features and wall designs.  It’s located in the east gym area.  Recreational Sports and Services and Touch of Nature Outdoor Education Center are sponsoring the climbing adventure contest.

Climbers will compete in three different V-scale skill divisions, with separate competitions for men and women:

• Beginner, VB-V3.
• Intermediate, V3-V6.
• Advanced, V6+.

The goal is to climb as many boulders as possible within an allotted time.  The top three competitors in each division will advance to the final round, and prizes will awarded to the winners.

Check-in begins at 10 a.m., and open climbing runs are from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.  The competition finals are at 2:30 p.m. followed by an awards ceremony.

Participants are encouraged to sign up in advance but can also register at the Love at First Onsight event.  The cost is $40 and includes lunch and a T-shirt.  Sign up online by clicking here .

For more information, contact Katrina Medernach, campus outdoor program coordinator, at katrina.medernach@siu.edu or 618-453-3952.