Done right, competitions are a great way to bring climbing communities together. Join us as we talk with Jon Brock, Director of Routesetting for MetroRock and chief of the Dark Horse Series, about what makes an event special.
This webinar is ideal for all routesetters seeking to serve elite competitors.
TUESDAY, JULY 14
6:00PM MT
**NEW 2026 FORMAT – READ BEFORE RSVP**
In 2026, we’ve switched to a new format with higher recording quality! Only five (5) spots are available to join in the live discussion, and participants will be chosen by application. We’re looking for people who are excited to be an active part of the conversation, camera on! We’re also aiming for fresh and diverse voices, so please keep applying if you’re not chosen.
Fill out the RSVP form below to (a) be considered to be a participant in the live discussion and (b) contribute questions/topics.
It is free to RSVP and watch the recording – it will be posted on this page.
Setters Only! is a series of free online discussions led by Foxman McCarthy-James and Justin Wright from Vortex Routesetting, with relevant guests from across the industry. The panel-discussion-style sessions include time for interactive Q&As with attendees.
Upcoming Dates:
AUGUST 11 & SEPTEMBER 8
@6PM MT
(Monthly on 2nd Tuesdays)
Meet your hosts and guests:
| Jonathan Brock is the current Director of Routesetting for MetroRock Climbing Centers. He’s been setting and climbing for over 10 years and has set for over 100 competitions hosted by MetroRock, including USA Climbing events, the Dark Horse Series, and local community-based comps.
He started setting for Dark Horse in 2018 and took over as the chief routesetter for the series in 2022. Dark Horse is unique because it consists of elite comps for everyone; some young crushers get to compete at the same time as Nathanial Coleman and see what’s possible. Jon holds his USAC L4 and has set for USAC youth and collegiate nationals. |
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| Foxman McCarthy-James is an owner and consultant with Vortex Routesetting and Routesetting and Work At Height Education Consultant for the Climbing Wall Association. She has brought her background in education into her routesetting career, teaching routesetting clinics and writing Work At Height plans for organizations around the country. She is passionate about continuing the conversation on how we can make our industry more welcoming and inclusive. |  |
| Justin Wright is an owner and consultant with Vortex Routesetting. He holds a USAC L4 and has developed routesetting teams across the country. Serving on the CWA’s Routesetting and Work At Height Committees, Justin is committed to helping move the climbing industry forward by developing routesetter education pathways and recommending best practices for volunteer Work At Height standards. |  |
