23 December 2010

Do climbers need evidence for ascents?

Debate/Jens: Climbing is unusual, as we have few rules and basically no referees. Over the years, many climbers have been questioned. Did they really do the climb they claimed? In some cases the accused have proved they did the ascents. Others have just not bothered. So a cloud of doubt hangs over some climbs, including some of the highest-graded ones. Like any sport, it is natural that we have cheaters. 8a has received many complaints about lying 8a members. Our position is NOT to go live with this kind of information, or ask climbers to give proof - as long as we are not talking "world record" ascents. The whole issue deeply humiliates the climbing community. It also puts a climber's back to the wall. Liars are typically caught anyway, when they are at the crag climbing much below what they claim. Suppose some started questioning Sharma, Nicole, Ondra etc. Without proof, they would have been given black eyes. They would have walked away with a very bitter feeling, that could have changed their climbing lives forever. If we demand proof, boulderers are no longer allowed to go out and push hard by themselves. When it comes to route climbing, you better have witnesses or a belayer experienced enough to swear the oath, "Nothing but the truth..." as they stand in front of the jury.
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