![Newspaper clipping from February 25, 1970 in the Daily Barometer showing an article written by Bob Allen, past Barometer Editor. This article was written to spotlight both the student body’s lack of participation with student government at the time in conjunction with their class representatives response. [It’s important to note ASOSU was not structured identically to today’s standards, likely having a president on behalf of each class work together as one entity as opposed to one president representing all classes.]](https://dailybaro.orangemedianetwork.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/Screenshot-2025-03-12-1.00.42-PM-e1741811160853.png)
Local climbers can get ready to grab their chalk bags and climbing shoes.
On Saturday, May 17, Valley Rock Gym will be hosting the fourth annual Rally in the Valley community bouldering competition.
“The energy around our climbing competitions is so unique,” said Zach Horowitz, an assistant manager at Valley Rock Gym. “It’s a really electric atmosphere that connects everybody.”
According to the gym’s website, the competition will feature “modified redpoint-style” climbing and is open to climbers of all abilities.
Guest setters from gyms all over Oregon have been collaborating with Valley Rock Gym to create exciting new routes for this year’s competition.
The competition is broken down by skill level with youth (under the age of 14), recreational (V0 to V3), intermediate (V4 to V6), open (V7+), and masters (ages 40+) divisions.
Unlike years past, the competition will further be broken down into three categories: men, women, and nonbinary. Participants are able to select whichever category they feel best fits their identity and skill level.
“No one’s really a sore loser, a sore winner in climbing, especially at our competitions, because everyone’s just so happy to see each other and compete and try their best,” commented Horowitz.
While the experience is a reward in itself, the top three competitors in each category will receive a prize. In previous years, prizes have included crash pads, chalk buckets, chalk bags, and other climbing related goods.
The registration fee is $45 for Valley Rock Gym members, and $60 for nonmembers. Registration is open until the day before the competition, but spots are limited. Spectators are welcome to attend.
“People who have never signed up for a competition before are signing up this year,” Horowitz said. “I would hope that people know that it’s not as serious as they might think… And while there are people who do take it seriously… it’s just an opportunity to try something new.”
To register for Rally in the Valley, climbers can visit Valley Rock Gym’s website: https://valleyrockgym.com/rally-in-the-valley
