Competition format for competitors in E and D categories for the 2017/2018 series

As many of our members are already aware, starting with the 2017/2018 series, the OCF is adopting policies that are in line with The Long Term Athlete Development (LTAD) framework that is being developed for sports climbing in Canada. The model identifies appropriate levels of training and competition for various age groups. As a result of these new guidelines, and in consultation with the individual who is leading the development of the LTAD program for sports climbing in Canada, effective for the 2017/2018 season, the OCF has made some changes to our competition policies and formats for our youngest athletes.

Competition Categories

The former D category which in the past included all children aged 11 and under has been restructured into two distinct categories: D category (children born in 2007 or 2008, i.e., aged 10 and 11) and E category (children born in 2009 or 2010, i.e., aged 8 and 9). Children born after 2010 will not be eligible to participate in OCF competitive events during the 2017/2018 series.

Competition Formats

For bouldering competitions, athletes in D and E categories will compete in a modified scramble format consisting of 8 problems, with a maximum of 8 attempts per problem over a 90 minute period.

For difficulty competitions, athletes in D and E categories will compete in a modified flash format consisting of 4 routes with a maximum of 2 attempts per route.

Scoring and Ranking

All athletes will have score cards to have their attempts tracked by judges during the competitions, however, only D category will have their results tracked and ranked. There will be no “winners” or podium named for E category. As well, only D athletes will have the opportunity to qualify for and compete in provincials (where they will follow the onsight format for bouldering and the flash format/onsight format for difficulty).

Please note – No exceptions to the age categories will be permitted.

We realize that for some of our athletes, these changes are significant. However, the OCF feels that such changes are important to implement as 1) They are in the best interest over the long term for athlete development both on an individual basis and for the sport as a whole; and, 2) In order for the OCF to be recognized as an official Provincial Sport Organization (PSO) we have to ensure that we align with guidelines and regulations established by the CEC and Sport Canada, among other organizations. Such alignment is particularly important as a result of the recognition of the CEC as an official National Sports Organization by the Canadian Olympic Committee.

For more information about the LTAD, please follow the links included below.

LTAD: Information for Parents – Sport for Life
A Sport Parents Guide to LTAD – Sport for Life

Thank you,

Gillian Wyett

Chair, OCF