Reading about an 8 year old who climbs 5.12 makes me a little queasy – I've seen how women's gymnastics has changed from a sport that was at least partly recreational and attracted normal young women, to one that imposes severe restrictions on age, weight, height, etc. and is deadly serious, with competitive advantage the sole objective. I would hate to see bouldering! or climbing in general end up as a heavily controlled, competitive venue suitable for only a relative few genetically appropriate, elite athletes. I don't think that will happen – there are too many diverse types of personalities in our sport for it to become rigorously rule-bound. People still become climbers to flaunt rules and regulations! God bless them.
