Far North Climbing: Leprechauns Are People Too...

Far North Climbing Gym (FNC) is a fairly new player on the California list of climbing gyms, at an age of just 4-years. However, being the only public climbing gym on the Northern California coast (above the bay area), it is a haven for students and community members alike. With a home-built atmosphere and it's own unique style, Far North is always a place to go to have a good time whether you're climbing, drinking a few freshly-tapped beers, or riding the mechanical bull. As such, it was quite appropriate that the 2012 CCS comp at FNC was scheduled for St. Patrick's Day.

The festivities went off without a hitch. Quality boulder problems and a newly-painted orange boulder (slightly resembling the Great Pumpkin) kept the place brightly colored and the competitors wide-eyed. Difficulty ranged from V0-Vfreak, with several of the problems remaining standing gym projects at the end of the day. Intriguing and surprisingly difficult bonus problems helped maintain a light atmosphere; it was hard for the competitors not to laugh at each other during the funky mantles and situps required to score a few extra points.

Since this comp was also scheduled at the beginning of many California schools' spring break, the intercollegiate turnout was minimal. A few hardcore climbers came out from Sierra Nevada College and Sonoma State, respectively. Big respect to them for braving the storm and windy roads on the drive up here! Perhaps due to the limited field, the HSU climbing team was able to sweep all of the Men's and Women's podium spots. This is perhaps the first time this result has occurred at a CCS comp in California. Way to represent the home gym, Humboldt!

The day ended in green glory, as all competitors and community members alike were invited back to the gym later that night for post-comp festivities. A few local bands kept the dancing music going, while local craft beers tantalized the taste buds. The festivities lasted until the wee hours of the morning. For many, it may be one of the best nights they can't remember. For those who may recall, it was the best after party yet!

Way to make the 3rd stop in the CCS NorCal circuit a stylish one, Far North!