Vertical Showdown November 29, 2025

Let’s Do This!

Competition Format

• Teams of 4 - 5 techs
• 30 min planning + 1 hr execution
• 2 scenarios scored on points → Top 2 advance to Final Showdown
• Judged by 4 officials (sponsored by Petzl)
• Showdown Party: 5–8 PM 🎉 (finale + after-party)

Key Details

• Limit of 4 teams 
• Early registration required for teams & spectators
• Sponsored by Petzl - judges, prizes, medals, swag!!! 
• All participants get: t-shirt, hat & Priority November open gym access

Competition Rules:

1. Each team must have all members as current, certified rope access technicians under SPRAT and/or IRATA.

2. Each team must include at least one current, certified Level 3 technician under IRATA and/or SPRAT.

3. Each team must bring standard rope access kits for all team members.

Who Can Compete?

• Teams of 4 members (must include at least 1 Level 3 technician)

• All competitors must:

  • Hold valid IRATA or SPRAT certification

  • Present updated certificates and logbooks

  • Be over 18 years of age

• Skills: Scenarios will require Level 3 competencies (not everyone needs to be L3, but your team must be prepared for advanced rigging and rescue skills)

• Each participant must bring their own kit

• Rigging equipment will be provided on-site.

  • Equipment must be checked in and out.

  • Participants are responsible for loss or damage — liability may apply.

Additional Information

Fees

• $400 per team (includes participation, showdown, swag)

• Spectators: $25 (register for tickets asap - limited supply)

• $150 optional add-on for priority Open Gym Access in November for training

Team Registration

• Deadline: Oct 20, 2025 | Confirmation: Oct 24, 2025

• Spots decided by lottery if more than 4 teams register

• Payment due same day once confirmed

Required Info

• Team name

• Participant names (placeholders accepted until confirmation)

• Certification details + certificates, logbooks, and resumes

Prizes

• First Place: Petzl Prize Pack + Medals
• Second Place: Medals

Required Gear

Each participant is required to have a standard rope access kit which includes:

• 2 descenders per technician

• 2 back-up devices per technician (one must be rated for a two-person load)

• 2 personal dynamic lanyards (cow’s tails) per harness

• 1 rope access harness with chest ascender

• 1 adjustable work positioning lanyard (e.g., Petzl Grillon)

• 1 ANSI or CSA-rated helmet

• 6 locking carabiners

• 4 x 60m ropes

Additional Equipment

Teams may bring more than the minimum required equipment, including but not limited to:

• Rope grabs

• Extra descenders or back-up devices

• Pulleys

• Slings, strops, or accessory cord

• Additional rope

⚠️ Powered ascenders are not permitted during the competition.

On-Site Equipment

Each scenario will include some rigging equipment supplied by Pacific Ropes. This equipment will be the same for all teams to ensure fairness.