FA’s Final Summit - Tjoms In Arms
As our climbing community continues to grow and evolve, one event has consistently brought climbers together for an unforgettable experience – Tjoms in Arms (TIA). Now in its fourth year, TIA has become a standout occasion on the national climbing calendar, offering a unique blend of competition, camaraderie, and celebration. If you’ve never heard of TIA before, now is the time to get up to speed with what many describe as the ultimate team-based climbing event in SA.
Here’s everything you need to know about TIA 2024, taking place on October 5th at Friends & Allies Climbing Gym, and why it’s a must-attend event for both climbers and supporters alike.
What is Tjoms in Arms?
At its core, Tjoms in Arms is a team-based bouldering competition where climbers partner up to tackle a series of boulder problems, working together to achieve the highest combined score. The name “Tjoms in Arms” reflects the event’s emphasis on friendship and teamwork, with climbers supporting each other through every challenge they face on the day.
Unlike traditional climbing competitions that focus on individual performance, TIA places the partnership between climbers front and center. Teams are made up of two climbers, and the goal is to climb as many problems as possible during the qualifying session. The top-scoring teams advance to a high-energy final, where the competition really heats up.
But what sets TIA apart is its emphasis on community spirit. It’s an event where climbers cheer each other on, whether they’re competing or spectating, and where the goal is as much about having fun as it is about pushing your physical limits.
How TIA 2024 Works
TIA follows a simple yet dynamic format that ensures every climber, from novice to expert, has a great time while pushing their limits. Here’s how it all goes down:
Qualifying Rounds
The event kicks off with three rounds of qualifying sessions, spread out over the day. Each team of two climbers has two hours to climb as many problems as possible from a set of 30 specially designed boulders. These boulders are exclusive to TIA and are set specifically for this event—after your session, they’re gone forever.
The aim during the qualifying round is to score points by topping problems. Climbers earn different points based on how many zones or tops they reach on each problem. Both climbers’ top 10 boulder scores are combined to create the team’s overall score. The more problems you and your tjom top, the higher your chances of making it to the finals.
The Finals
After the qualifying rounds, the highest-scoring teams across three categories- male, female, and mixed – advance to the finals. This is where the competition truly shines. The finals follow a session-style format, where all teams climb the same set of problems together, with 20 minutes per boulder problem.
This head-to-head competition, combined with the electric atmosphere, makes the finals a highlight of the day. Climbers push themselves to the limit, spurred on by cheers and encouragement from fellow climbers and spectators alike.
Prize Giving and Afterparty
Once the climbing ends, the prize-giving ceremony begins. Teams are rewarded for their efforts, with prizes going not only to the top-performing teams but also to those who stood out in other ways—such as the best dressed or the most spirited climbers. TIA is about celebrating all aspects of the climbing community, not just the winners.
Following the prize-giving, the day transitions into the legendary TIA afterparty. Music, food, and drinks are on hand as climbers and supporters alike celebrate the day’s efforts, relax, and reflect on an amazing event.
Why TIA is Different
What makes TIA such a special event is that it’s designed for everyone. Whether you’re an elite climber or just starting out, TIA offers an experience that is both challenging and inclusive. Here’s why TIA stands out:
- Team-based format: Climbing is often seen as a solo sport, but TIA emphasises the importance of partnership and teamwork. Success in the competition depends on how well you and your tjom work together, making it a true test of communication and support.
- Unique problems: The boulder problems set for TIA are exclusive to the event and are designed to test a wide range of skills—from strength and endurance to technique and problem-solving. Once the event is over, those problems are stripped, never to be climbed again.
- A celebration of community: TIA goes beyond competition. It’s an opportunity for climbers to come together, share their love of the sport, and support one another. Even those who don’t make it to the finals stay to watch, cheer, and enjoy the day.
- Inclusive atmosphere: TIA encourages climbers of all abilities to participate. Whether you’re aiming for a podium finish or just want to have fun, there’s a place for you at TIA. The event has always been about more than just winning; it’s about being part of something bigger—a community of climbers united by their love for the sport.
The History of Tjoms in Arms
TIA began as an experimental climbing competition at Friends and Allies Climbing Gym. From the start, the idea was to do things differently. Wes and Tim wanted an event that reflected the friendly, supportive culture of their climbing community, rather than the hyper-competitive atmosphere often associated with sports events.
The result was TIA, a competition that emphasises partnership over individualism, and camaraderie over rivalry. Over the years, TIA has grown from a local gym event to a widely celebrated annual competition that attracts climbers from all over the country. Each year, the event has grown in size and reputation, with climbers looking forward to the unique challenges and festive atmosphere that TIA offers.
While the format has stayed largely the same – teams of two, bouldering for glory – the event has evolved in terms of scale, complexity, and community involvement. From its humble beginnings, TIA has become a must-attend event for anyone serious about bouldering in South Africa.
Why You Should Attend TIA 2024
Whether you’re a climber looking for a new challenge or someone who simply enjoys being part of an energetic, passionate community, Tjoms in Arms 2024 is an event you won’t want to miss. It’s an opportunity to test your skills, strengthen your climbing partnerships, and immerse yourself in the vibrant South African climbing scene.
Even if you’re not competing, TIA is a day packed with excitement, from the heart-pounding finals to the lively afterparty. It’s a chance to connect with other climbers, experience the thrill of the sport, and be part of an event that embodies the best of what climbing is all about – friendship, challenge, and community.
Mark your calendars for October 5th, 2024, and come join us at Friends & Allies for a day of climbing like no other. Whether you’re here to climb, cheer, or simply soak in the atmosphere, Tjoms in Arms is where you’ll want to be.
See you on the walls, tjoms!