Dave MacLeod on Echo Wall. Photo: Claire MacLeod
ShAFF organiser Matt Heason explains that to some the British grading system is the perfect system, explaining more about a route than any other, but to others, especially when it comes to higher end grades, it clouds things and causes confusion.
The debate will cover questions such as: Should cutting edge ascencionists be grading for the hypothetical on-sight at the same time as having the said ascent videoed and thereby rendering the pure on-sight impossible to any viewers? Does a climber's 'experience' on a route affect its grade? Just how responsible are the media and sponsors when it comes to the rush of reporting a major new route, and what effect have internet forums had on their moderation.
The Great British Grade Debate - supported by the BMC - will be held on Sunday 1 March 2009. Nick Colton of the BMC will chair a debate between the following panel of cutting edge climbers:
John Arran
Dave Birkett
Lucy Creamer
John Dunne
Jack Geldard
Steve McClure
James Pearson
Nic Sellars
Questions will be taken from the audience. More details will follow soon here and at www.shaff.co.uk