On Saturday the 21st of February CityROCK Johannesburg kicked off the 2026 season in style with the conclusion of their summer bouldering series. Let’s just say that this years series evolved into something new, with a new partner, new stakes, and a new pair of La Sportiva shoes up for grabs for the overall winners.
The first edition ofThe Solution brought together the whole bouldering community for a fun open format qualification round. Twenty boulder problems of varying difficulties and styles to tackle meant that there really was something for everyone. The route setters worked hard all week leading up to the event to make this possible, and they certainly delivered.
The Qaulies Round
With 177 athletes participating, the boulder section was packed, electric, and full of psyche. The only goal: to find the solution to as many problems as possible to make it into the illusive finals. Whether you were there for the glory, the shoes, or to have a good time, we saw you.
Qualies Done. Game On!
With qualies all wrapped up, scores being tallied, and final boulders going up, it was time for the much loved spectator games:
- Dyno Challenge
- Table Bouldering
- Hang & Pinch Challenges
- The infamous Fridge Squeeze
- And the crowd-favourite debut: Hold Curling (yes, it’s exactly as good as it sounds)
It’s safe to say that if you weren’t already having fun, you definitely were now. The determination was high, the laughter was abundant, and the attempts were back-to-back. No really, I think I saw one kid attempt the table bouldering at least six times.
For some, the determination paid off, and for others, they will be back for mini-game-glory later this year. Winners were determined and just like that, it was time for the Boulder finals.
The Finale: Where Things Got Real
Six men. Six women. Four boulders. Fifteen minutes per problem. All gas. No brakes.
The finals were fierce. On the ladies side, Courtney made the problems look easy and floated to the top of problem after problem. Jemma and Tiffany were neck and neck throughout, keeping everyone on the edge of their seat. Here, attempts were crucial in determining the final podium.
On the mens side, Luke impressed with some quick flashes, leading the way on each problem and opening the send gates. Luke secured the win being the only one to top problem two, in an impressive and dominate performance. The finals also welcome some new faces, with Cookie and Cam stepping up and showing that they also have what it takes to tango with the best.
The Podiums
2nd – Jemma Erdey
3rd – Tiffany Bouwer
2nd – Julien de Wet
3rd – Bailey Matthew
Special Thanks
A huge congratulations to everyone who showed up and showed out. From our podium winners to our casual crushers, without you this event would not have been what it was. A shout-out to Chev and the Pretoria setting team for their help in creating all the setting magic.
And an extra special thank you to Dylan Pfab, a mildly concussed Chris McGowan, Sebastian Rankin, and Josh Myers, for helping out with scoring and final calculations.
Incredible vibes all round!
Don’t forget to keep training….the winter Boulder League is coming in July.
– Team CityROCK Johannesburg
