Big Rock News

Following on from our extensive route resetting programmed initiated in mid-December, James ‘Caff’ McHaffie is currently setting bouldering problems at Big Rock on Monday 20th January and will be setting lead climbing routes on Tuesday 21st January.

Caff is one of the UK’s most accomplished rock climbers, having onsighted over 30 routes graded E7 and above, made numerous sport route onsights of 8a and above, and completed a successful ascent of The Big Bang (9a) at Lower Pen Trwyn in North Wales in August 2011. Based in North Wales, Caff is also an MIA qualified climbing instructor.

Come climbing at Big Rock this week and you’ll have a whole load of quality new boulder problems and lead climbing routes to try!

The February 2012 edition of the ClimbUK newsletter is now online and includes loads of indoor climbing centre related news, events and other climbing stuff you may be interested in. Check out the video of Basque climber Iker Pou climbing one of the worlds hardest rock climbs!

Click the image below to view the newsletter

If you wish to subscribe to our mailing list and receive the newsletter by email at the beginning of each month, follow the subscription link on the newsletter page.

ClimbUK an unfamiliar name to you?

Whilst you are probably familiar with one of our indoor climbing centres, you may not have heard of the ClimbUK brand before. ClimbUK is the collective name for Big Rock, Beacon and Climb Rochdale indoor climbing centres, the Beacon Climbing Walls manufacturing business and the Beacon Climbing Hold Shop. Whether you want to climb at an indoor centre, build an indoor climbing centre, or set up a climbing facility at home, ClimbUK provides the facilities and expertise to help!

Fancy contributing?

If you have a particular random climbing word, climbing tip, website link or other piece of news that you would like to share, please let me know! Email tommy@beaconclimbing.com and you’ll receive full credit in the next newsletter if your contribution is used.

Keep fit, tone up your muscles, meet new friends, exercise your brain… Social Climbing evenings at Big Rock are the perfect antidote to boring gym regimes and are a great way to develop your climbing!

Now operating twice weekly, every Tuesday and Thursday, Social Climbing at Big Rock is the perfect way to organise your exercise routine and your social life in one hit! The sessions are scheduled from 6:30pm, but you're welcome to turn up at anytime.

If you've just completed your Beginner Climbing Course at Big Rock or are looking for structured climbing sessions to increase you motivation and confidence, Big Rock Social Climbing evenings are the ideal way to get involved! Open to anyone and everyone, no matter how experienced you are or what level you climb at, these evenings offer you the chance to enjoy climbing in a highly social atmosphere.

Climbing with others is a great way to evolve and improve both your climbing skills and techniques, and during Social Climbing evenings you'll always find a Big Rock instructor on hand to offer additional guidance and advice.

More information on the Big Rock website here.

On Friday 30th March, the last selection of bouldering aggregate problems will be available for aggregate contestants to attempt during the aggregate Grand Final day.

Contestants will only have until 8:30pm on Friday 30th March to complete as many of these new problems as they can with all score cards to be handed into Big Rock reception by 8:30pm. The aggregate prize ceremony will commence at 9:00pm once the final scores have been calculated.

The aggregate has so far been a huge success and the final day is now less than 5 weeks away. If you’re looking for some additional motivation, we have loads of great prizes to give away from our sponsors DMM and Beacon Climbing. Keep ticking away to increase your score and you could be a winner!

The climbing competition is open to team entries only, with 6 climbers making up each team, and will include bouldering and top rope climbing. Mixed age and ability teams are welcome but all team members must be aged 10-18 and attend the same school.

You can find full details and registration forms on our website here.

Places are limited to 20 teams only and entries will initially be restricted to 1 team per school, so apply early!

Closing date for registration 21st February 2012

Open to all service personnel aged 18+ of all abilities, join us on Thursday 1st March for an informal and friendly climbing competition with a highly sociable atmosphere.

The climbing competition is open to team entries only, with 3 climbers making up each team. All team members must be aged 18 or over. Although your team does not have to be from the same watch, a team should be made up with members from only one of the services, e.g. all ambulance, all RAF etc. Mixed ability teams are welcome including novice climbers who wish to have a go at climbing and help make up a team.

You can find full details and registration forms on our website here.

Closing date for registration 17th February 2012

Indoor climbing offers an alternative and exciting sporting activity for all ages and abilities, and with age appropriate instructional courses available to suit anyone and everyone, Big Rock is the ideal venue for learning and developing climbing skills, keeping fit and having fun. It's a great way to dispel the myth that exercise is boring!

Big Rock 'have a go for FREE' sessions are run once a month and are open to all ages from 4+. These short sessions are a great opportunity to try indoor climbing and you don't even need to book! You don't need any previous climbing experience or any specialist clothing or equipment, just turn up wearing comfortable clothing and trainers and have a go! Big Rock can be experienced on your own or with friends and family and offers a fun alternative to the gym, or a really exciting activity for the kids.

Our next have a go for FREE session is on Sunday 18th March 12:00 - 4:00pm

Full information on our website here.

The BMC Youth Climbing Series is a popular and fun competition for young climbers of all abilities, with three regional rounds and a national final. The series is extremely popular and attracts hundreds of entrants across the country.

There are three regional rounds in each of the BMC England Areas followed by a British Final when the top 3 climbers in each category from BMC Wales, the two Areas from Scotland and Northern Ireland take part.

Round 1 will be held at climbing centres throughout the UK on 25th February.

Click here to find out more about the BMC Youth Climbing Series including all the dates and venues for each round across the UK.

Please note that Big Rock will not be hosting any of the rounds this year. We have included this information on our website for youngsters who may be unaware of the series and may wish to enter.

Gain new climbing skills and improve your climbing technique with our 1.5 hour Climbing Progression Workshops!

Open to all registered members aged 18+ and applicable to both roped climbing and bouldering, these workshops represent amazing value for money at £10 (entry fee included!) and are the perfect way to increase your confidence and motivation for climbing.

During the fun 1.5 hour workshop, a Big Rock instructor will guide you through fundamental climbing techniques designed to help you to climb harder with less effort. We only have 6 places available so book your place soon here.

Looking for an exciting and fun new activity to try out over the half-term holiday? Visit Big Rock Climbing Centre and have a go at indoor climbing!

During the February half-term holiday, Big Rock offers 1.5 hour Holiday Taster Sessions every day throughout the week. These sessions are a great opportunity to try indoor climbing, offer great value at £15 per person and you don't even need to book!

Almost anyone over age 4+ can participate in a Big Rock Holiday Taster Session and the climbing centre caters for all abilities with hundreds of different colour coded climbs spanning all levels of difficulty to choose from. You can have a go on your own or with friends and family and you don't need any previous climbing experience or any specialist clothing or equipment.

Find out more details including session times here. You can even book online to ensure your place is guaranteed! You are also welcome to contact us by phone on 01908 583 128 or email info@bigrockclimbing.co.uk

Big Rock will be hosting a Boreal Climbing Shoe demonstration evening on Wednesday 8th February from 5pm-9pm.

If you are looking for a new pair of climbing shoes or are interested in understanding the technical features and benefits of the latest models, then this is a great opportunity!

There will be loads of shoes in multiple sizes to test out including the new range of Kintaro and Lynx with super sticky Zenith Rubber. A member of the Boreal team will be on hand throughout the evening to offer expert fitting advice and technical guidance.

See you there!

Big Rock Climbing Centre now offers organised 45 minute Little Rocker climbing sessions for young children age 3-5. These Little Rockers sessions are a great way to introduce young children to the exciting world of climbing and feature loads of age appropriate fun, games and activities in addition to using the climbing walls.

Little Rockers sessions are conducted in 4 week blocks with each block consisting of 4x 45 minute sessions spread over 4 consecutive weeks. Prior to the start of each 4 week block, we offer a 45 minute Little Rockers Taster Session, providing an ideal opportunity for you and your child to attend and check out Big Rock Climbing Centre. We are sure you'll be hooked!

The next taster session is on Wednesday 8th February 1.30pm - 2.15pm and the next 4 week block starts on Wednesday 22nd February 1.30pm - 2.15pm.

Full information on our website here.

In conjunction with offering amazing deals at The London Outdoor Show, Beacon Climbing are also offering 20% OFF all website orders placed between 12th January and 22nd January. Simply place your order at www.climbukshop.com using offer code out12.

Check out the full range of Beacon Climbing products in our new 2012 mini brochure available to download here.

• Loads of new holds added over the last few months.
• Most sets now available in a choice of 9 colours.
• NEW Vector 2 plywood fingerboard.
• NEW Fingerboard Doorway Mounting System for convenient slide in/slide out mounting.

The January 2012 edition of the ClimbUK newsletter is now online and includes loads of indoor climbing centre related news, events and other climbing stuff you may be interested in. This month we're even giving away FREE tickets to The Outdoor Show!

Click the image below to view the newsletter

If you wish to subscribe to our mailing list and receive the newsletter by email at the beginning of each month, follow the subscription link on the newsletter page.

ClimbUK an unfamiliar name to you?

Whilst you are probably familiar with one of our indoor climbing centres, you may not have heard of the ClimbUK brand before. ClimbUK is the collective name for Big Rock, Beacon and Climb Rochdale indoor climbing centres, the Beacon Climbing Walls manufacturing business and the Beacon Climbing Hold Shop. Whether you want to climb at an indoor centre, build an indoor climbing centre, or set up a climbing facility at home, ClimbUK provides the facilities and expertise to help!

Fancy contributing?

If you have a particular random climbing word, climbing tip, website link or other piece of news that you would like to share, please let me know! Email tommy@beaconclimbing.com and you’ll receive full credit in the next newsletter if your contribution is used.

Whether your passion is walking, climbing, travelling, photography or camping, or you just enjoy getting outdoors and trying something new, you're sure to have a great day out at The Outdoors Show. Highlights include a massive range of gear, exclusive discounts, celebrity and expert speakers, professional demos and the Climbing Village.

With the aim of introducing people to different aspects of climbing, The outdoors Show 2012 has a climbing offering like never before...

CrazyClimb brought to you by Beacon Climbing Walls

Offering fun, weird, and completely wacky vertical climbing challenges, Crazy Climb is the latest indoor climbing activity from Beacon Climbing Walls. Don't get scared, get crazy! Our wacky climbing challenges include shinning up a drainpipe on the side of our Crazy House, climbing aliens by grabbing their nostrils and making faces at your friends through the see-through climbing wall!

You don't need any previous climbing experience so anyone can have a go at the hilarious crazy climb challenges! Each challenge uses a fully automated belay system which gently lowers the climber to the ground from any point on the climb. Come and have a go!

Climbing Walls in association with the National Indoor Climbing Achievement Scheme

For many, the climbing wall is their first introduction to the absorbing world of climbing. The National Indoor Climbing Achievement Scheme provides the structure and motivation for new climbers to develop their skills in order to help them get the most out of their climbing as well as having their achievements recognised.

You will be able to pre book a session with our NICAS instructors to come away from the show with the first part of your qualification.

Ice Climbing brought to you by DMM

DMM's Ice Climbing wall is always an extremely popular feature of The Outdoors Show. The Ice wall will be returning in 2012 offering you a chance to conquer the basic techniques needed in this high adrenaline sport.

Climbing Masterclasses brought to you by DMM

You don't have to be a world class athlete to benefit from expert tuition. Anyone can improve their training, technique and performance with a little help. Performance masterclasses are bookable with DMM sponsored athletes Libby Peter and Lucy Creamer via the DMM website.

The Climbers Retreat and Stage

Grab a pint, coffee or a slice of cake while listening to speakers including leaders from the AMI (Association of Mountaineering Instructors) and other climbing organisations.

In addition to The Climbing Village activities you can also have a go at balancing on a slackline, zooming across the show on the Go Ape zipwire and much more!

Four shows for the price of one! The Outdoors Show runs alongside The Active Travel Show, The London Bike Show and the Tullett Prebon London Boat Show, and with your ticket valid for entry to all four shows, it's a fantastic, affordable day out for the whole family.

Book your ticket now at www.theoutdoorsshow.co.uk

Outdoor Show Opening Times...

Outdoor Show Ticket Prices...

ClimbUK are offering some great New Year deals on Beacon Fingerboards and Beacon Climbing Holds at The Outdoor Show running next week from Thursday 12th January to Sunday 15th January.

In addition to launching CrazyClimb, the new climbing installation offering exciting and wacky climbing challenges, Beacon Climbing will have an array of climbing hold sets and fingerboards available to purchase at very special prices exclusive to those attending The Outdoor Show.

We will be offering Beacon Fender Fingerboards for only £50, Beacon Classic Fingerboards for only £25 and plenty of other climbing hold sets!

Loads of new climbing holds have been added to the Beacon Climbing range over the last few months and most holds are now available in a choice of 9 colours. The fingerboard range has been extended with the addition of the CNC cut Vector 2 plywood fingerboard and the new Fingerboard Doorway Mounting System. Compatible with most fingerboards, the neat Doorway Mounting System allows convenient slide in/slide out mounting for easily removing the board when not in use.

Check out the full range of Beacon Climbing products in our new 2012 mini brochure available to download here.

We’ve just received a massive delivery of Beacon Climbing Holds and are currently in the process of getting these sets added to the website stock system – we’re hoping to get this done by then end of the week. All climbing hold sets can be ordered online and now is the perfect time of year to get into training mode for the coming season!

And finally… Get 20% off all Beacon Climbing holds and fingerboards during the week following the outdoor show! Simply place your order at www.climbukshop.com between 12-22 January using offer code 'out12'.

Need a respite from the festive mayhem? Eager to offset the consumption of 12,000 calories on Christmas day? Want to show the staff your new hand knitted jumper from granny?

We would love to see you over the Christmas period! Just make sure we are open when you plan to visit...

We’re planning a major route resetting programme at Big Rock for our roped climbs over the coming weeks, aimed at adding increased quality and variety to all the routes on offer.

The resetting programmed will include the lead climbs in The Pit and all climbs within the top rope areas. With guest route setters booked, starting with the infamous Streaky from North Wales later this week, you’ll have a whole load of new routes to look forward to during your next visits to Big Rock. Based in North Wales, Streaky is a regular setter at Beacon Climbing Centre and even has his own Streaky Fan Club with members dedicated to promoting and encouraging him to set more routes!

All routes will be labelled with a grade and will also include the name of the route setter. If you’ve tried a particular route and you think the grade should be adjusted, or you’ve realised that you really like routes set by a particular setter, then let us know! We’d love to hear your feedback and all comments can be used to make the climbing at Big Rock even better!

Visit the top rope climbing area at Big Rock Climbing Centre and look for our new fireplace and chimney climb!

Use your climbing skills to climb up the chimney using black coals for hands and feet, just like Father Christmas. And if you make it to the top you’ll find some sweets inside Santa’s bag!

Find more photos on our Facebook pages here!

Want to give the gift of choice this Christmas? Why not give a Big Rock Climbing Gift Card?

They can be charged with any amount of credit and are perfect as Christmas or Birthday presents, allowing the recipient to spend it how they wish.

Big Rock Gift Cards can be purchased at the reception desk within Big Rock Climbing Centre and can be used to pay for Big Rock Climbing Centre entry, any of the wide range of Big Rock Climbing Taster Sessions and Courses, and can also be redeemed in the Big Rock Climbing equipment shop.

On Thursday 22nd December we’ll be offering everyone climbing at Big Rock a free mince pie and hot drink!

We’re open all day from 11am – 10pm so just turn up any time and help spread the festive spirit!

The December 2011 edition of the ClimbUK newsletter is now online and includes loads of indoor climbing centre related news, events and other climbing stuff you may be interested in.

Click the image below to view the newsletter

If you wish to subscribe to our mailing list and receive the newsletter by email at the beginning of each month, follow the subscription link on the newsletter page.

ClimbUK an unfamiliar name to you?

Whilst you are probably familiar with one of our indoor climbing centres, you may not have heard of the ClimbUK brand before. ClimbUK is the collective name for Big Rock, Beacon and Climb Rochdale indoor climbing centres, the Beacon Climbing Walls manufacturing business and the Beacon Climbing Hold Shop. Whether you want to climb at an indoor centre, build an indoor climbing centre, or set up a climbing facility at home, ClimbUK provides the facilities and expertise to help!

Fancy contributing?

If you have a particular random climbing word, climbing tip, website link or other piece of news that you would like to share, please let me know! Email tommy@beaconclimbing.com and you’ll receive full credit in the next newsletter if your contribution is used.

Check out our new photo gallery section to take a virtual tour of Big Rock!

We’ve added loads of interesting images, showing the initial construction of Big Rock, the grand opening day, the latest competitions and much more! If you’re a Big Rock regular, you may even be able to spot yourself!

Click on the camera icon within the right hand menu to view the photo gallery index.

Big Rock will be scheduling additional indoor climbing taster sessions on Wednesday 30th November during the public sector strikes. These will be run at 11:00am, 1:00pm and 3:00pm with a cost of £15 per person.

If you have never climbed before and fancy having a go, these 1.5 hour Taster Sessions are a great introduction to indoor climbing at Big Rock and are suitable for nearly everybody.

Check availability and book online here (scroll to the bottom of the course date list).

Offering an exciting alternative to regular indoor climbing, Dry Tooling is a great opportunity to try something completely new. In addition to providing a fun physical workout, indoor dry tooling is also an ideal opportunity to familiarise yourself with basic ice climbing techniques.

We are running workshops in November and December in addition to open sessions for those with previous Dry Tooling experience. You don’t need any previous experience or any winter climbing aspiration to attend the workshops and we’re sure you’ll find them great fun!

Check out the video below showing Dave testing the dry tooling traverse. The dry tooling holds are carpet backed to protect the climbing wall from damage and dry toolers must only use these holds. Don't use bare hands on these holds since they often have sharp edges from tool damage!

Full information on our website here.

The Big Rock Youth Climbing Competition hosted yesterday evening proved incredibly popular with well over 100 contestants across the age categories.

Competitors were required to complete 12 bouldering problems with a maximum attainable score of 10 points per problem and 3 routes with a maximum attainable score of 100 points per route. It was superb to see such a high level of talent across the age categories with some of the youngsters even achieving a perfect 420 scoring – well done!

Download the full score sheets here.

Team Trophy Results...

Joint first: Big Rock Squad and Sharnbrook Upper School.

3rd place: Royal Latin School

More photos available on our Facebook pages here.

Thanks to all the volunteers who turned up to help and to the parents and families attending to support the youngsters. Big Rock will be hosting another Youth Climbing Competition in 2012 and we’d love to see you all next time.

Please note that Big Rock is hosting a Youth Climbing Competition on Friday 11th November from 5:00pm. With 100 contestants expected to attend, the climbing centre will be much busier than usual. Route setting will also be taking place during the day on Thursday 10th and Friday 11th November.

Full information about the Youth Climbing Competition can be found here.

Good luck to all the competitors!

Join us at Big Rock Climbing Centre on Friday 11th November for a fun and friendly top-rope climbing and bouldering competition for all youngsters up to aged 18.

No matter whether you an experienced climber or just starting out, climbing competitions are a great way to increase your confidence and motivation, meet new friends and improve your overall climbing ability.

The emphasis of the Big Rock Youth Climbing Competition is on having fun and in addition to climbing, you can participate in fun activities such as blind fold climbing and limbo!

A Team Trophy is available for teams of 3 or more competitors, with the chance for the highest scoring school team to win a free Big Rock mobile climbing wall visit for their school! Team members do not have to attend the same school or youth organisation to compete for the Team Trophy, but must attend the same school to be eligible to win the mobile climbing wall visit.

Registration for this event has now closed.

Please note that pre-registration is required and must be completed by 4th November 2011. Places are limited. Please contact us on 01908 583128 or info@bigrockclimbing.co.uk to register for the competition or if you require any further information.

	Download the competition registration form here.
	Download the competition information sheet here.
	Download the full sized competition poster here.

The competition registration form can be filled in electronically by simply typing directly on the form. Email the completed form to info@bigrockclimbing.co.uk. You can also print out the form and return it to Big Rock by post or by handing it into reception.

It’s Halloween on Monday… so join the Big Rock staff and come along in fancy dress!

We’ve got some great prizes on offer for the best adult and child costume, tasty hot dogs, Halloween lollies and a Bring and Buy sale too!

If you have any old or unwanted climbing, camping or fitness equipment, then bring it along and we’ll try to turn it into cash! 10% of the sale will be donated to Mountain Rescue, but you’ll get to keep the rest.

All events will kick off from 5pm and we hope to see you there! Mwaahaahaa!!!

Well done to the 191 riders, including Big Rock directors Mike Axon and Karen Mehrtens, for completing the 510 mile Extra Mile Haute Savoie Cycle Challenge 2011 in South West France.

Starting off in Fontainebleau, repeated climbs and tired legs were eased by the spectacular scenery, the sweeping high speed descents and the majestic finish at the lakeside in Annecy.

The challenge was organised by Extra Mile Challenges (registered charity no.1100243) with the prime objective of raising funds to donate to other charities. Big Rock Climbing Centre provided sponsorship for the Cycle Challenge alongside other Milton Keynes based companies, and the Centre has previously supported Extra Mile by donating bouldering league and bouldering aggregate entry fees to the charity.

Read more about Extra Mile here.

Kids love to climb stuff and now Big Rock Climbing Centre has its very own dedicated kids' bouldering area, providing a fun activity area that aims to encourage and inspire kid’s enthusiasm for climbing.

The new climbing area features 3 exciting apparatus including Tommy the Elephant, the Tiger Wall and a fun free standing boulder!

Check out our Young Climbers website section for further information and more photos.

The October 2011 edition of the ClimbUK newsletter is now online and includes loads of indoor climbing centre related news, events and other climbing stuff you may be interested in.

Click the image below to view the newsletter

If you wish to subscribe to our mailing list and receive the newsletter by email at the beginning of each month, follow the subscription link on the newsletter page.

ClimbUK an unfamiliar name to you?

Whilst you are probably familiar with one of our indoor climbing centres, you may not have heard of the ClimbUK brand before. ClimbUK is the collective name for Big Rock, Beacon and Climb Rochdale indoor climbing centres, the Beacon Climbing Walls manufacturing business and the Beacon Climbing Hold Shop. Whether you want to climb at an indoor centre, build an indoor climbing centre, or set up a climbing facility at home, ClimbUK provides the facilities and expertise to help.

Fancy contributing?

If you have a particular random climbing word, climbing tip or other piece of advice that you think would benefit the world, please let me know! Email tommy@beaconclimbing.com and you’ll receive full credit in the next newsletter if your contribution is used.

A Big Rock birthday party is the perfect way to celebrate a birthday with friends, providing a really fun and memorable experience.

Our birthday party climbing sessions include lots of age appropriate fun, games and climbing activities and Big Rock offers climbing suitable for all ages including climbing suitable for small children, so everyone is sure to have a great time!

To make birthdays even more special, we've now got neat A5 Birthday Party Pack available for all birthday party bookings! These colourful packs contain party invitations for your friends with a climbing information sheet and easy to follow directions to Big Rock.

Check out the Birthday Parties section on the Big Rock website for comprehensive information.

The final round of the Big Rock Summer Bouldering League took place on Sunday 4th September and saw some closely contested action on a series of superb competition problems. Over 30 climbers filled the bouldering arena, desperately ticking away to earn the last available points.

Congratulations to the winners and a final big thanks to all the competitors and the route setters. The event has been a huge success and we really look forward to seeing you all again for next year's summer aggregate.

The final scores are available in pdf format here.

... and now it's time to start training for the Big Rock Winter Aggregate starting on October 2nd!

The September 2011 edition of the ClimbUK newsletter is now online and includes loads of indoor climbing centre related news, events and other climbing stuff you may be interested in.

Click the image below to view the newsletter

If you wish to subscribe to our mailing list and receive the newsletter by email at the beginning of each month, follow the subscription link on the newsletter page.

ClimbUK an unfamiliar name to you?

Whilst you are probably familiar with one of our indoor climbing centres, you may not have heard of the ClimbUK brand before. ClimbUK is the collective name for Big Rock, Beacon and Climb Rochdale indoor climbing centres, the Beacon Climbing Walls manufacturing business and the Beacon Climbing Hold Shop. Whether you want to climb at an indoor centre, build an indoor climbing centre, or set up a climbing facility at home, ClimbUK provides the facilities and expertise to help.

Fancy contributing?

If you have a particular random climbing word, climbing tip or other piece of advice that you think would benefit the world, please let me know! Email tommy@beaconclimbing.com and you’ll receive full credit in the next newsletter if your contribution is used.

Rope Techniques FREE
Thursday 18 August 7:00pm-8:30pm

If it has been a while since you were on the sharp end, our rope techniques class is an ideal starting point for brushing up on rope handling techniques. This free session is designed to introduce best practises when lead climbing and belaying to help increase climber safety.

Belay Class FREE
Monday 5 September 7:00pm-8:30pm

Ever wanted to know what it’s like to use a Bug or ATC belay device? Wondered what a GRIGRI is or how to use it? Our Belay Taster Class gives you the opportunity to find out what each belay device is like to use and how to use them appropriately and safely.

The Final Round of the Big Rock Summer Bouldering League will be held on Sunday 4th September.

Leagues 1-3 can compete between 10am - 4pm to gain the last few points. The Super League Final will begin at 4pm and competitors will compete directly (points will be irrelevant) for some guaranteed exciting action.

You can find full information about the Summer Bouldering League in the competition section of the website here.

We’ve got loads of mega prizes to give away and all prizes will also include a big rock T-shirt and chalk ball!

Super League Prizes 1st Pair Boreal Shoes 2nd Beacon Classic Fingerboard 3rd Big Rock Shop equipment voucher £25   League 1 Prizes 1st Beacon Classic Fingerboard 2nd Big Rock Shop equipment voucher £20 3rd Evolv Boulder Bucket   League 2 Prizes 1st One month free entry 2nd Big Rock Shop equipment voucher £15 3rd Evolv Chalk Bag   League 3 Prizes 1st Progression Workshop place 2nd Big Rock Shop equipment voucher £10 3rd Chalk bag

Please note that Big Rock Climbing Centre will remain open as usual every day over the bank holiday weekend.

Congratulation to August Newsletter Comp winner Tom Hartland. A Beacon Classic Fingerboard is on the way to you!

The correct answer to the competition question:

In 1990, British climbing legend Jerry Moffatt established the UK´s first 8c sport climb at Lower Pen Trwyn in North Wales. What was the name of this historic climb?

Answer: Liquid Ambar

Watch out for another competition in the September newsletter.

View our previous newsletters here.

The Big Rock Summer League is a FUN bouldering competition comprising of 5 rounds and running at Big Rock over the summer months. Score cards can be purchased from reception for just £2 for each round.

Don't worry if you have missed a round! You can turn up on any of the dates and still compete!

Round 1 Sunday 8th May

Round 2 Sunday 5th June

Round 3 Sunday 3th July

Round 4 Sunday 7th August

Final Sunday 4th September

Each round will last for one day only and you will be able to complete the round anytime between 10am – 5pm during that day. Scorecards will be available to purchase until 4pm but must be handed in by 5pm.

At the end of each round you will be placed into a league dependant on your points to date and performance in that round, this will help to ensure that you compete against people of your own ability. It is not age or gender specific.

Get motivated, get involved, get strong! Full information availabe in the competition section here.

Big Rock Climbing Centre has been asked to help out with a personal photography project, and is looking for female climbers to model for some photos here at Big Rock next week.

click the image to enlarge

Ideally you will be an experienced female climber between 30 and 35 years old, Caucasian with hair which can be tied back into a single pony tail.

If you are interested then please contact Big Rock as soon as possible and we will pass on details to the photographer.

ClimbUK will be running a competition to win a fantastic Beacon Classic Fingerboard in the next ClimbUK newsletter due for release 1st August. If you wish to take part, please follow the link to subscribe to the newsletter here.

Our monthly newsletter includes loads of climbing centre related news and events from Big Rock, Beacon and Climb Rochdale, and also keeps you up to date with the latest Beacon Climbing Hold designs.

View our previous newsletters here.

It’s BBQ time again!

Join us on Wednesday 27th July from 4pm onwards for a delicious BBQ outside Big Rock Climbing Centre. Enjoy some summer tunes, have a climb and mooch on over to the BBQ for a bite to eat.

Big Rock chef Neil Taylor will be juggling fiery coals and a pair of tongs to offer a great selection of regular and vegetarian food.

See you all there!

Constructed from high quality cotton with screen printed logos, Big Rock T-Shirts are now available in our climbing equipment shop.

Adult T-shirts

• Colour: Charcoal with orange logo
• Price: £12 for Big Rock members, £15 for non-members

Children's T-shirts

• Colour: Bright Orange or Bright Green
• Price: £10.50

Please be aware that Big Rock prices will rise from Monday July 11th.

The new prices can now be viewed on the Big Rock website here.

Unfortunately due to the increased cost associated with operating the centre, all prices have had to be raised in accordance with our increased administration costs.

All the Big Rock staff would like to take this opportunity to thank all our customers for supporting the centre and we hope to see you again in the very near future.

The Big Rock Team

Do you have finger, wrist, elbow or shoulder pain? Or are you generally interested in injury prevention and treatment aimed at climbers?

Big Rock has teamed up with The Blackberry Clinic and will be hosting an informative and interactive presentation given by Chartered Physiotherapists Louise Allison and Madeleine Nazareth.

Located in Milton Keynes, The Blackberrry Clinic offer a wide range of services including Chiropractic, Osteopathy, Physiotherapy, Sports & Orthopaedic Medicine plus complementary therapies.

Date: Tuesday 19th July
Time: 7.30pm onwards
Venue: Big Rock Climbing Centre
Price: FREE

Check out The Blackberry Clinic website here!

Three hour performance enhancing workshop at Big Rock Climbing Centre with Smart Climbing on Saturday 16th July. We will be running 2 sessions: 10am-1pm and 2pm-5pm.

Smart Climbing was developed by dual qualified Clinical Psychologist and climbing instructor, Dr Rebecca Williams. The idea was to create a fun, friendly workshop where how hard you climbed was irrelevant, but how well you climbed was key.

Covering basic psychological techniques to help manage common problems with climbing, Smart Climbing Workshops include maintaining focused attention, using mindfulness exercises, proactive and reactive strategies to manage fear and anxiety, learning how to take leader falls, and using the behavioural model to manage associated nerves.

click the image to enlarge

Using cognitive-behavioural techniques, mindfulness, relaxation and self hypnosis, as well as tricks to improving kinaesthetic awareness and visualisation skills, the workshop is suitable for anyone wanting to improve how they climb.

£35 per person.

Please contact Big Rock reception on 01908 583128 to book a place.

Well done to all the young climbers who competed in the BMC Youth Climbing Series final at Wolf Mountain Climbing Centre, Wolverhampton over the weekend.

Big Rock climber Lydia Wright performed exceptionally well, gaining a very respectable 13th place in the 8-10 girls category. Lydia progressed through the qualifying stages and worked very hard to get to the final so a big well done from all the Big Rock staff.

What is the BMC Youth Climbing Series?

Held annually, the BMC Youth Climbing Series is a popular and fun nationwide competition organised by the BMC, Mountaineering Council of Scotland and Mountaineering Ireland for young climbers of all abilities.

There are three age categories (8-10 years, 11-13 years and 14-16 years) with separate competitions for boys and girls. It is perhaps the most popular climbing competition for young people, attracting hundreds of entrants across the country.

Three regional rounds are held in each of the 11 areas (7 BMC England Areas, BMC Wales, 2 Scotland Areas and Northern Ireland) with each round comprising of 3 routes and 3 boulder problems for each category. The top 3 climbers in each category from each of the areas will then take part in the British final.

No matter whether you an experienced young climber or have recently starting out, the Youth Series climbing competitions are a great way to increase your confidence and motivation, meet new friends and improve your overall climbing ability. Although the 2011 Series has now finished, the next series will begin in early 2012 and participation is highly recommended for any enthusiastic youngsters!

Full Youth Series information can be bound on the BMC website here.

Petzl has discovered that exerting excessive force on the fully extended handle of the GRIGRI 2 can cause internal damage, such that the GRIGRI 2 handle may become stuck in the open position.

Petzl is not aware of any accidents resulting from this and Petzl has increased the mechanical strength of the handle on all GRIGRI 2’s since serial number 11137.

UK customers should stop using the GriGri 2 immediately and contact Lyon Equipment to arrange replacement. Full details concerning replacement can be found in the Lyon Equipment recall pdf here.

Big Rock has now added an auto belay to the Pit, allowing you to climb routes without the need for a belayer. The constant tension whilst climbing, combined with the slow and controlled rate of descent is a superb method of building confidence during roped climbing. Auto belay systems are also a superb endurance training tool, enabling you to climb routes continuously without having to worry about taking turns with a belay partner.

Whilst we all love the inherent social nature of climbing, having access to an auto belay system is a great opportunity to remove the frustration of being unable to climb routes simply because you have not managed to team up with a partner. Concerned members of staff have expresses their fears that we aim to fully automate Big Rock and replace all staff with robots, but rest assured, this is not the case.

Thanks to all the competitors who attended the competition on Friday and well done to the winners!

James Baughen was the winner of the dyno competition.

Alex Fry was the winner of the bouldering competition.

Six time British champion and professional route setter Gaz Parry set 12 excellent routes and these will remain available for a while allowing you to practise for the next comp...

Thanks to Peter Baggaley for sorting out some excellent photos! You can also find some additional photos here.

Big Rock Climbing Centre is currently offering rock climbing trips to the Peak District and North Wales.

Our outdoor climbing courses are priced from £75 per day and include instruction and all the necessary climbing equipment.

Big Rock currently offer a series of scheduled outdoor climbing trips with dates shown in the poster below, but bespoke and multi-day sessions are also available. Please contact us and we can organise a schedule and location to suit your requirements.

For more details about outdoor climbing trips or to make a booking, please contact us by phone on 01908 583128 or email info@bigrockclimbing.co.uk

The June 2011 edition of the ClimbUK newsletter is now online and includes a load of indoor climbing centre related news, events and other climbing stuff you may be interested in.

Click the image below to view the newsletter

If you wish to subscribe to our mailing list and receive the newsletter by email at the beginning of each month, follow the subscription link on the newsletter page.

ClimbUK an unfamiliar name to you?

Whilst you are probably familiar with one of our indoor climbing centres, you may not have heard of the ClimbUK brand before. ClimbUK is the collective name for Big Rock, Beacon and Climb Rochdale indoor climbing centres, the Beacon Climbing Walls manufacturing business and the Beacon Climbing Hold Shop. Whether you want to climb at an indoor centre, build an indoor climbing centre, or set up a climbing facility at home, ClimbUK provides the facilities and expertise to help.

Fancy contributing?

If you have a particular random climbing word, climbing tip or other piece of advice that you think would benefit the world, please let me know! Email tommy@beaconclimbing.com and you’ll receive full credit in the next newsletter if your contribution is used.

Climbing competitions are a great way to improve your confidence and climbing abilities by observing the skills and techniques of better climbers.

On Friday June 10th Big Rock will be holding a climbing competition for all adult climbers. Open to all abilities, we aim to encourage climbing competition participation by operating an informal and friendly event with a highly sociable atmosphere.

The event will include top-rope and lead climbing with a range of grades to suit both beginners and the most competitive climbers. Six time British champion and professional route setter Gaz Parry will be setting the routes and will be staying to chat throughout the evening. There will also be a separate bouldering and a fun 'Dyno' competition.

Entry to the competition is £9 if pre registered and £10 on the day. Signing in will take place from 6pm and climbing starts at 7pm. Competitors will be categorised by gender.

Prizes include Boreal and Evolv climbing shoes, Mountain Hardwear equipment and Big Rock entry tickets.

Check out the information below and feel free to contact us if you have any questions or require any further information.

Download the competition registration form here.

Whether you are considering entering your first competition or are a seasoned competition climber, we are sure you'll have a great time!

The Summer Bouldering League is proving very popular with over 50 climbers participating in Round 2 on Sunday 5th June. Thanks to everyone who took part!

The scores are available in pdf format here.

Check out the more pictures on our facebook pages here.

Don't worry if you didn't have the time or energy to complete all the problems - they will remain for a few more weeks, giving you the opportunity to train for the next round!

Anyone who missed Round 1 or Round 2 can still join us for Round 3 on Sunday 3rd July.

You can find full information about the Summer Bouldering League in the competition section of the website here.

The Psyche II Film Tour is brand new for 2011 and incorporates the best in adventure films from the UK's leading climbing film maker Alastair Lee.

Films...

'The Prophet' (2010) - Following the story of top big wall climber Leo Houlding's epic first ascent on El Cap in Yosemite. 'The wildest route I've ever been on' as Leo puts it, a truly spectacular film including some classic one liners from Leo's long time climbing partner and rough diamond Jason Pickles. Winner of the Grand Prize at Kendal Mountain Film Festival and Best Climbing Film in Vancouver.
(43mins)

'Hollow Caves' (2010) - Watch deep water solo protagonist Neil Gresham as he shows us what it's all about with one of the UK's hardest deep water solos to date, superb climbing in the stunning coastal setting of Pembrokeshire. (11mins)

'Dusk till Dawn' (2010) - Pembrokeshire explorer extraordinaire Dave Pickford climbs his stunning new route 'Dusk till Dawn' in the impressive Huntsman's Leap. Feel Dave's passion for Pembrokeshire climbing as he shares his views on the route and wider thoughts on climbing. (5mins)

Prices:
£10 for the film and food (chilli con carne)
£5 for the film only booked in advance
£6 for the film only pay on the day

Food will be served from 6pm with the film starting at 7:30pm

Psyche II Teaser - The Prophet

Our May 2011 edition of the ClimbUK newsletter is now online and includes a load of indoor climbing centre related news, events and other climbing stuff you may be interested in.

Click the image below to view the newsletter

If you wish to subscribe to our mailing list and receive the newsletter by email at the beginning of each month, follow the subscription link on the newsletter page.

ClimbUK an unfamiliar name to you?

Whilst you are probably familiar with one of our indoor climbing centres, you may not have heard of the ClimbUK brand before. ClimbUK is the collective name for Big Rock, Beacon and Climb Rochdale indoor climbing centres, the Beacon Climbing Walls manufacturing business and the Beacon Climbing Hold Shop. Whether you want to climb at an indoor centre, build an indoor climbing centre, or set up a climbing facility at home, ClimbUK provides the facilities and expertise to help.

Fancy contributing?

If you have a particular random climbing word, climbing tip or other piece of advice that you think would benefit the world, please let me know! Email tommy@beaconclimbing.com and you’ll receive full credit in the next newsletter if your contribution is used.

Big Rock hosted our first Youth Climbing Competition on Friday 20th May with nearly 80 competitors participating in the competition across the age categories.

The emphasis on the competition was to have fun and it was great to see such a vibrant atmosphere amongst the competitors as they attempted the roped climbing and bouldering challenges.

The Youth Competition was a great success and it was fantastic to see such a large number of enthusiastic and talented young climbers. Attending these events is a great way for youngsters to increase confidence and motivation, make new friends and improve overall climbing ability. We hope to see you all next time!

The score sheet can be downloaded in pdf format here.
The speed climbing competition winner was Edward Hawes.

Thank you to all the Big Rock staff and to all the volunteers who made the night possible, and a special thanks to all the parents and families attending to support the young climbers.

The competition gallery will be loaded onto our Facebook pages shortly.

We had a fantastic turn out for Round 1 of the Summer Bouldering League on Sunday, with 70 climbers participating. Well done and thanks to everyone who took part!

The scores are available in pdf format here.

UPDATE Check out the pictures on our facebook pages here.

Don't worry if you didn't have the time or energy to complete all the problems - they will remain for a few more weeks, giving you the opportunity to train for the next round!

Anyone who missed Round 1 can still join us for Round 2 on Sunday 5th June. We look forward to seeing you there.

Been climbing a lot recently and in need of some protein?

Join us on Tuesday 17th May from 5pm onwards for a delicious BBQ outside Big Rock Climbing Centre. We’ll also have our new mobile climbing wall set up for the first time, giving you the opportunity to climb outside!

Big Rock chef Neil Taylor will be juggling fiery coals and a pair of tongs to offer a great selection of char grilled cuisine to satisfy the hunger of both meat eaters and vegetarians.

In the words of George Bernard Shaw
    "There is no sincerer love than the love of food."

At Big Rock we love a bit of colour and a lot of fun, and we’ll duly be offering excellent prizes for the best Hawaiian shirt and Bermuda shorts. And don’t forget to enter the limbo competition before you eat too much...

 See you all there!

Keep up to date with all the latest event information and news by following us on Twitter. Check us out @bigrockclimbing.

You can also click the Twitter logo on our website homepage to link directly to our twitter pages.

For anyone wanting a fun and exciting challenge with their close friends, we are now offering Stag and Hen sessions at Big Rock.

These sessions will allow you and your friends to fully experience the excitement and exhilaration of climbing in the weather proof comfort of Big Rock Climbing Centre.

Check out the Big Rock website here for full information.....

Please note that Big Rock Climbing Centre will remain open as usual every day over the long weekend.

If you need to work off celebration excesses or are feeling lazy from watching hours of Royal Wedding TV coverage, then a good work out at Big Rock is just the thing!

And congratulations to the happy couple!

Thanks to everyone who took part in our winter bouldering aggregate and congratulations to all the winners. The aggregate has been a huge success and we have managed to raise £350 for the local extra mile charity.

The final scores are available in pdf format here. Check out our facebook pages to view photos of the prize giving ceremony.

We look forward to another successful winter aggregate next year!

Sports massage therapy is now available at Big Rock Climbing Centre and is a highly recommended form of body conditioning for climbers and other athletes.

Whether you have a few lingering aches and pains, stiffness in your shoulders, or back pain, sports massage therapy helps to aid recovery and reduce the risk of injuries.

For climbers really looking to optimise performance, resting for appropriate lengths of time between climbing sessions and body conditioning, are incredibly important (and often overlooked) aspects of any training schedule. Combining sport massage as part of your training can significantly reduce the risks of overuse injuries and also aids recovery by reducing muscle fatigue. If you are already suffering from muscle fatigue or specific climbing related injuries such as sore shoulders, sports massage is an incredibly effective method of relieving fatigue and injuries, allowing you to achieve a high level of performance.

Kara will be available to conduct therapy sessions at Big Rock on Tuesdays and Wednesday evenings between 6:00pm – 9:00pm and on Saturdays between 11:00am and 15:00pm.

Pre-booking is essential and you can book an appointment by contacting Blissfully Young on 01908 969516.

Big Rock Climbing Centre is currently offering Free have-a-go Evening for Teachers. We invite you and your colleagues to come along to one of our teachers open evenings to find out more about us, have a free climb and then a chat over cake and coffee.

Climbing and Education

Climbing is suitable for everyone, regardless of age, size or ability. Indoor climbing provides a positive physical and mental work out and is a great activity for developing team and communication skills.

Climbing is also an ideal activity when working towards Healthy Schools, or as a part of the Duke of Edinburgh's Award.

More information about climbing at big rock for school groups can be found in our school brochure and on our school climbing poster.

Free have-a-go Evenings for Teachers

You are more than welcome to drop in at any time. However, we have also arranged a series of open evenings where we will have staff on hand to answer your questions.

Therefore, why not come along, have a free climb, coffee and cake and find out more about bringing your school group to big rock climbing centre.

Our next open evenings run from 3.30pm to 7.00pm on the following dates:

Tuesday 22nd March

Thursday 24th March

Monday 4th April

Wednesday 6th April

Getting it Touch

We'd be delighted to hear from you. We're keen to answer your questions, discuss your ideas and tell you more about what we can do for your school and pupils.

If you are hoping to attend one of our open evenings we would be grateful if you could let us know in advance, although this is not essential, by emailing us on rachel@bigrockclimbing.co.uk, or by calling us on 01908 583128.

On Saturday 26th March, the last 10 bouldering aggregate problems will be set.

Unlike previous new problems, contestants will only have until 5:00pm on Sunday 27th March to complete as many of these problems as they can. All score cards must be handed into Big Rock reception by 5:00pm, with the prize ceremony commencing at 6:00pm.

The aggregate has been a huge success and we look forward to rewarding the competitors for the success and commitment to the series. There are loads of great prizes from our sponsors DMM, Beacon Climbing and the Big Rock Shop, with prizes awarded for the top climbers in each category, best improver and best newcomer.

There are still a few weeks to go, so keep ticking away!

A regular Yoga practice develops core strength, general muscle strength, flexibility, better breathing, and will also help you develop balance and concentration – all important benefits to help you improve your climbing skills. It’s also fun and relaxing and makes you feel good.

Yoga classes will be run at Big Rock Climbing Centre every Monday at 8.15pm from 14th March.

You can book a session over the phone on 01908 583128 or by visiting the Big Rock reception.

CU Belay Glasses are touring the UK to give you a chance to experience belaying in comfort. CU Belay Glasses can minimise or completely eliminate 'belayer's neck', and reduce the impact of belaying on pre-existing back and neck conditions.

Come along to our demo evening at Big Rock on Monday 21st March between 5:00pm and 9:00pm to try them out!

CU Belay Glases have an innovative design, which allows you to belay your climbing partner without straining your neck and therefore reduces neck pain. CU are prism glasses, which can be used for indoor and outdoor climbing alike. They basically allow you to keep your head straight while being able to see what happens directly above you, offering a very clear, non-inverted view.

The Big Rock Lead Climbing Course is designed to help adults make the transition from top rope climbing to lead climbing on indoor walls.

If you have been climbing for a while and would like to take the next step, this course will help you do just that and give you the skills to take you into our lead climbing area.

When

The next Lead Climbing Course starts on Wednesday 9th March and consists of 3x 2 hour sessions spread over 3 consecutive weeks. Places are limited and booking is required, so contact us early to avoid disappointment.

Price

£50 per person.

The price for the course includes entry to the wall and all instruction and equipment required for each session.

Further info

Comprehensive information regarding the Big Rock Lead Climbing Course can be found within our courses section here.

The Big Rock winter bouldering aggregate is in full swing with plenty of new aggregate problems courtesy of ex British Bouldering Champion, Gaz Parry.

For those new to climbing or unaware, the aggregate is a friendly bouldering competition for all abilities run over the winter months at Big Rock Climbing Centre. All our aggregate information is now online on our website and can be found here.

For those who have signed up for the aggregate, the latest scores are now available in pdf format here. There are still a few months to go, so plenty of opportunity to keep ticking away at the problems to improve your score!

Ex British Bouldering Champion Gaz Parry visited Big Rock last week to reset some of the problems in the bouldering arena.

Gaz is a highly experienced competition climber and route setter, and his problems are always guaranteed to be both interesting and challenging. With loads of new problems spanning every grade, now is a great time to visit Big Rock!

A photo of Gaz crushing True North (8c) at Kilnsey in Yorkshire: keep up the climbing at Big Rock and maybe the big numbers will arrive for you...

Read more about Gaz on his website www.gazparryclimbing.com

Lacking motivation or need some inspiration?

Pop up to the big rock lounge and check out our selection of climbing related stuff! We've got magazines and guidebooks and you are welcome to borrow DVDs from the big rock reception for viewing on our big screen.

Immerse yourself in the world of cutting edge rock climbing, get psyched watching Chris Sharma crush some 9bs in Spain, pick up some training techniques in the latest magazine or pick up a guidebook and start preparing for a road trip.

Whether you are looking for a 5 minute rest from climbing, a fresh injection of motivation or a quick look at Chris Sharma's muscles, we are pretty sure that you'll head back downstairs and burn off your mates with your new found psyche!

The Big Rock Climbing Centre opened its doors to the public on sunday. A big thanks to everyone who came along.

Our official opening is on the 18th September, there will be loads going on including master-classes with Tim Emmett and Dave MacLeod, watch this space for more info...

With one week till opening, the end is finally in sight. Route setting has been continuing, with the guys giving us some great challenges for you to play on. The new lights are up, matting is starting to go down and the painting is almost finished. We just can't wait to climb, not long now...

A little taster of the bouldering area painting.

Well the paint arrived a few days ago so we've been really busy getting to work on the vast expanse of walls we have here at Big Rock. Whilst the bouldering area is really starting to look good with just a few panels to finish, work on the pit has really progressed and it too is nearly ready for the first splash of paint.