A Day for the Setters
The energy was electric at Friends and Allies for Bolts and Holds ‘25, South Africa’s only
routesetting competition and one of the most anticipated community events on the Friends
and Allies calendar. Setters from gyms across the country came together for a full day
dedicated to creativity, movement, and the art of route design while climbers packed the
gym to test the boulders and vote for their favourites.
What makes Bolts and Holds truly special is its unique format. Each setter crafts their
boulders anonymously, letting the problem speak for itself. It’s a rare moment where
setters, usually the behind-the-scenes creators of every climber’s experience, step into the
spotlight.
Building the Magic
The day kicked off with a morning of setting, as walls transformed into colourful
playgrounds of texture and flow. Each setter was randomly assigned a wall zone and a hold
colour, adding a layer of spontaneity and challenge. The final twist: they could only submit
one of their two boulders for public voting. The result was a showcase of creativity,
decision-making, and pure passion for movement.
From playful mantles to powerful cave problems, every boulder told its own story. Some
were about balance and body tension; others tested strength and coordination. Together,
they formed a landscape of climbing that was as diverse as the setters themselves, accessible to beginners yet exciting enough to keep the pros on their toes.
Collaboration and Creativity
While the competition added friendly pressure, the atmosphere remained rooted in
collaboration. Setters shared holds, swapped ideas, and offered feedback as they worked
side by side.
This year’s edition felt noticeably different and elevated. The new setting space, increased
variety of holds, and greater diversity of styles all contributed to some spicy blocks. The
blend of real-rock-inspired movement with dynamic comp-style coordination gave climbers
something fresh.
Bolts and Holds ‘25 Setters
Block 11: Jaco
CityROCK CT: Tristan
CityROCK PTA: Michael and Mitchell
CityROCK JHB: KP and Anthony
Rock Valley: Tiaan and Caitlin
Friends and Allies: Anj, Kyran, Michelle
Bolts and Holds Podium
1st – Anj Jones
2nd – Tiaan Bouwer
3rd – Kyran Manson
More Than a Competition
As the evening session rolled in, the gym filled with climbers eager to sample every creation.
Every cheer, fall, and send became a moment of connection between the setters’ vision and
the community’s experience.
Bolts and Holds is about having the setters step up to the podium for a change. Giving the
setters the appreciation and recognition they deserve. This event continues to prove that
routesetting is an art form, a way of storytelling through movement that connects everyone
who steps onto the wall.
And as the stoke from Bolts and Holds ‘25 carries on, one thing is certain: South Africa’s
climbing community is stronger, bolder, and more inspired than ever.
