Rockshow Verres: take it easy!

I have always asked myself during these three years when we hosted the Salewa Rockshow, how we could make the event even more exciting, what we could add to get more people to take part. In the end though I came to the conclusion that there was no point thinking too much, the answer was right before our eyes. In my opinion, Rockshow is the perfect example of what climbing should be: "Take it Easy". This is what I was always taught, because climbing isn't just about competing, it's about a whole lot more, about the people who do it and the moments you share with each other. I think that's why the event grows in popularity every year and it just goes to show how what drives the event's success isn't just the comp, but also the climbers themselves who want to have fun, climbing for an evening and party.

As every year I took part in the Calling and each time I'm amazed at how natural it all is, how easy it is to get to know people, laugh and joke around as if everyone had known each other for ages. You feel close to everyone, share the same moves, difficulties and joys. Only an event like Rockshow can provide people with the opportunity to compete against those with far more experience, without however feeling the burdon of having to perform as one would normally do in an official competition.

To feel this spirit even more, this year once again we decided not to draw up an overall ranking after the Qualifiers. Instead, we chose the finalists based on our feelings after having watched these wonderful kids dream of small holds and freedom. See this in their eyes and moves, this pure, free love for climbing, certainly makes you dream... i studied all the moves carefully, listened to their words to try and find those who best represented the right spirit of this Rockshow. And this was by no means easy, because all gave it their best and showed that climbing is ageless.

It was great to see them climb, do two laps on the slack-line or Table boulder, have a beer, cheer on their teammates. A dutiful thanks goes to to the Aosta Salewa Store for organising a wonderful evening. And thanks to all the volunteers for their help and, of course, congratulations to all those who took part. In the end, for the record, here are the winners of the Verres Calling:

Men:
1° Andrea Biffi
2° Matteo Casamento
3° Gabriele Boglino

Women:
1° Federica Mingolla
2° Matilda Seguì
3° Camilla Dozza

by Marco Nardi

NEWS: Salewa Rockshow