Rockcity pioneers innovative climbing safety system
SAFETY FIRST: Ben Marsden, route setter and coach at Rockcity, left, with renowned climber Steve McClure
By Rick Lyon, Co-Editor
A Hull climbing centre has become the first in the world to fully adopt a new generation of auto belay safety technology, making indoor climbing safer and more accessible than ever before.
Rockcity has installed more than 30 TRU-Clip auto belay devices across its walls, completely replacing traditional auto belays with the new system.
The move represents a significant investment and places the long-established centre at the forefront of global climbing safety innovation.
Auto belays are devices that allow climbers to climb solo without a rope partner. Once clipped in, the device gently lowers the climber back to the ground at a steady, controlled pace.
While auto belays have been used in climbing centres for many years, the TRU-Clip system introduces several new safety features designed to remove human error.
NEW SYSTEM: Ben Marsden and Steve McClure using the new auto belay safety equipment at Rockcity
Unlike older systems, TRU-Clip only works when connected to a dedicated harness fitted with a metal D-ring. This means climbers cannot attach themselves incorrectly.
In addition, each harness is fitted with an electronic alarm. If someone starts climbing without being clipped in, an audible warning sounds once they get one metre off the ground. If they climb higher, a louder alarm is triggered and the system must be reset by a member of staff before climbing can continue.
The result is a system that prevents climbers from accidentally leaving the ground without being safely attached – one of the most common risks in indoor climbing.
Mark English, founder and managing director of Rockcity, said the decision to fully adopt the technology was driven by a long-standing commitment to safety.
“We’ve been in this game for 32 years and pretty much pioneered this kind of activity,” said Mark. “Safety is the biggest concern, and keeping fun activities safe.
FIRST IN THE WORLD: Mark English, Founder and Managing Director of Rockcity. Picture by Tom Arran
“When we saw this device and these series of improvements made for this secure system, we opted to go all in at significant cost.
“We’re the first centre in the world to adopt it throughout, which was a brave move on our part, but we could clearly see the benefits.
“The equipment in climbing doesn’t fail – people do. People can forget to clip in, even experienced climbers. This system takes away that risk entirely and stops anyone from accidentally climbing up a wall without being attached.”
The TRU-Clip devices are manufactured by Head Rush Technologies, a global leader in climbing safety equipment, and Rockcity has been using them successfully for a number of months.
Ben Marsden, route setter and coach at Rockcity, explained how the system works in practice and why it is such a step forward.
INNOVATIVE: The TRU-Clip auto belay devices at Hull’s Rockcity
“The only way to be attached is with a harness with a D-ring, so there’s no possibility of clipping in incorrectly,” said Ben. “Once you’re clipped in, there’s physically no way you can become unclipped until you come back down and reattach it at ground level.
“The harness alarms add another layer of protection. If someone starts climbing without being clipped in, it’s immediately obvious, and the system can only be reset by staff.
“Previously, even competent climbers could become complacent. This takes out that risk and makes climbing accessible to everyone. We give you a short induction, show you how it works, and then you don’t need an instructor with you for the session.”
The new system has also been welcomed by elite climbers working at the centre.
Renowned climber Steve McClure, who has worked with Rockcity on route setting for more than 15 years, said the technology is empowering for climbers of all abilities.
EASY TO USE: The TRU-Clip system
“For the client base that Rockcity has, this is crucial,” said Steve. “They have the full spectrum of climbers, from complete beginners to experts.
“Being able to give people the freedom to have a go on their own, without a coach and without risk, is really empowering. People can come in, try climbing for the first time, and be completely safe.”
By fully embracing TRU-Clip technology, Rockcity has removed one of the biggest barriers to indoor climbing, opening the sport up to newcomers, families and casual participants, while maintaining the highest safety standards.
The centre reports that the new system has already been extremely well received, with growing numbers of both first-time climbers and regular visitors enjoying the added confidence and simplicity it brings.
For more information about Rockcity, visit https://rockcity.co.uk/