Competition bouldering.

The following photographs are from the Melloblocco competition that is held in Val Masino each year. The last competition had around 1,300 entrants, many of whom lived within 30 minutes of the venue! Undaunted, climbers from many countries around the world gather at the event, which is one of the most sociable and friendly occasions that I've come across.

Efficient spotting is crucial, especially as some of the problems go as high as the routes on some crags!

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Bouldering mats are important, particularly for low-level moves where it would be very difficult for anyone to spot effectively.

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Competing takes a great deal of time and dedication. This roof problem was only completed a handful of times, including an ascent by Lucy Atkinson.

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Grit and determination are needed in order to succeed.

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The competition is a very sociable event, with people spotting each other, sharing mats, information etc.

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