When we first heard the term “Psicobloc”, images of some kind of rap group or cell block in a maximum security prison came to mind. This couldn’t be further from the truth! Started in the beautiful coastal region of Majorca Spain & coined by Miquel Riera, it translates into “Psycho Bouldering.” Hanging 50-70 feet from a rock face with only a pool of water such as an ocean, lake, or deep river as your safety net – the term fits! In the climbing world, it’s also known as Deep Water Soloing & considered the purest form of this type of activity. And, if you’re in Montreal the first weekend of September, it’s your chance to see it LIVE and in person at the 2023 Psicobloc Open!
Originally A Utah Thing
The Psicobloc Masters Series draws star athletes from around the world. From Maui or Portugal, for nearly five years straight they descended upon the Utah Olympic Park in Park City.
2023 Psicobloc Open
As of 2018, the competition has migrated north to Montreal, Canada. Since it’s move, the attendance has now exploded to over 10,000 attendees. And the purse has gone from just 20K in cash to also include over a 100 GRAND in prizes!
September 1st & 2nd – Qualifying & Seeding
On the first two days of the series, anyone can get a shot at competing with the best in the world. The best twenty four times in qualifying move onward to the main climbing days.
September 2nd & 3rd – Competition
The main event will put the top men & top women climbers face-to-face in a battle royal with over $100K on the line! Doors open to the public at 7 am on Saturday, September 2nd, and Sunday, September 3rd, 2023 respectively.
What if you can’t make it?
If you can’t make it, you can watch it live or better yet… Do you want to try Psicobloc in person? Well, here are two amazing natural location ski-towns in North America to do just that.
Whistler, British Columbia
Located halfway between Squamish & Whistler are the Heaven’s 30 foot overhanging granite walls on the Cheakamus River. The water might be cold, but being next to Whistler means you have access to hot summertime fun. From summer glacier skiing to mountain biking and awesome cuisine, there’s something for your entire crew even if you’re the only one climbing.
Aspen, Colorado
Just ten miles from Aspen, the Devil’s Punch Bowl is another great option. This pool of icy water on the Roaring Fork River is surrounded by granite walls giving access to multiple levels of climbers with coarse rock on one side and water-polished on the other. Similar to Whistler, you have access to a plethora of other summertime fun with awesome off-roading, river surfing, soaking in hot springs or even five-star dining.
