Beans & Carabiners
Aug
30
9:00 AM09:00

Beans & Carabiners

  • Wrinkled Rock Campground | South Seas (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Beans & Carabiners

Join us for our annual community potluck in the South Seas climbing area on Saturday, August 30th, starting around 9:00 AM. This long-standing tradition is all about community connection, shared meals, and good times with fellow climbers—no ropes or equipment will be provided by the BHCC, so bring your own gear if you plan to climb.

What to Bring

Bring a dish, snack, or beverage to share—anything you'd enjoy contributing to the communal table. Want to take part in the tradition? Bring a pot of chili! It’s a classic staple of this event.

This gathering is less about the send and more about the people. Whether you’re climbing or just hanging out, everyone’s welcome!

Please contact us if you have any questions. See you there!

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Spearfish Scramble
Sep
20
4:00 AM04:00

Spearfish Scramble

Spearfish Scramble

Background

The Spearfish Scramble is a 12-hour climbing competition set in Spearfish Canyon. Originally hosted years ago by the Crux Club at Black Hills State University (BHSU), the event is back revived by the BHCC to celebrate our shared love of climbing and competition in Spearfish Canyon. Climbers earn points by sending routes throughout the canyon, then reconvene for prizes, food, beer, and good company. Whether you're in it to compete or just out for a great day on the rock, the Spearfish Scramble has something to offer for every climber.

More details and how to register coming soon!

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Pumpfest 2025
Jul
25
to Jul 27

Pumpfest 2025

  • South Dakota Outdoor Shop (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

OUR ANNUAL CUSTER STATE PARK CLIMBING FESTIVAL IS HERE!

Join us at Pumpfest, A Black Hills Climbing Festival hosted by the Black Hills Climbers Coalition!

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Black Hills, this event brings together climbers of all skill levels for a weekend of vertical crystal pinching. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or beginner, Pumpfest has something for every climber.

Immerse yourself in the Black Hills community of climbers, enjoy expert-led workshops and clinics, and discover the breathtaking beauty of the Black Hills while climbing among the beautiful landscape of Custer State Park.

This year’s festival will be held behind Sylvan Lake in the Inner Outlet Climbing Area of Custer State Park. While we will not be setting up ropes this year, climbers are encouraged to explore classic routes across formations such as Inner Outlet, Vertigo View, Inner Course, Practice Rock, Paydirt Pinnacle, and Nora’s Wall.

This shift reflects our focus on partner connection, community engagement, and skill development through guided clinics. Whether you’re linking up with new partners or attending a clinic, you’ll have access to dozens of climbs in one of CSP’s most scenic and iconic areas.

(Refer to map layout below for exact location)

Festival Schedule

Friday, July 25th

  • 4PM - 5PM: Speaker Event

    • Located at the Custer Library (447 Crook St. #4, Custer, SD)

    • Guest Speakers with Q&A to follow

  • 5:30 - 9PM: Kickoff Social

    • Located at the South Dakota Outdoor Shop

      • 429 Mt. Rushmore Road, Custer, SD

    • YoYo Habachi Food Truck available

    • Lost Cabin Beer Takeover

    • 5:30 - 6:30 PM: Social Hour

    • 6:30-9PM Live Music by Neon Eyes

      • Learn more about the band below.

  • Free camping offered in the town of Custer

    • Generously donated by Don’t Panic

    • Book your spot below: Van, Car, and Tent site available

Saturday, July 26th

  • 7-8 AM: Yoga & Breathwork

    • Located at Custer Couthouse Museum Lawn (next to the Outdoor Shop)

      • 411 Mt. Rushmore Rd, Custer, SD

    • Breathwork led by Chris Pelczarski from Inner Earth Breathwork

      • Sign up and learn more below!

    • Yoga Class: Hatha Yoga for Climbers led by Sarah Christiansen

      • Sign up and learn more below!

  • 8 AM: Climbing Clinic Check In

    • Location: SD Outdoor Shop

  • 7-10 AM: Coffee, Donuts, & Climbing Partner Meetup

    • Don’t have a partner for the day? Gather at the Outdoor Shop to fuel up on coffee and donuts, and connect with other climbers looking for partners!

    • Location: SD Outdoor Shop

  • 8AM - 1PM: Climbing Clinics

    • Led by Sylvan Rocks Climbing Guide School (Pre-registration required)

    • Sign up and descriptions below!

  • 8AM - 4PM: CLIMBING in Custer State Park

    • See map below how to approach the Outlets climbing area

    • Outdoor vendors will have booths available by the climbing routes

      • Vendors include: CAAMP, Evolv, Black Hole Resole, & Pain and Movement Physical Therapy

  • 4:30 - 11 PM: After Party

    • Location: Custer Beacon

    • 5 - 7:30PM Yard Games, Vendors, Crate Stacking, Raffle Prizes

    • 7:30 - 10:30 PM: Live Music by Barstool Prophets

      • Learn more about the band below.

  • Free camping offered in the town of Custer

    • Generously donated by Don’t Panic

    • Book your spot below: Van, Car, and Tent sites available

Sunday, July 27th

  • 8-9 AM: Yoga & 9am Breath Work

    • Yoga Located at Custer Courthouse Museum Lawn (next to the Outdoor Shop). Breathwork will meet at 9am at the Cathedral Spires

      • 411 Mt. Rushmore Rd, Custer, SD

    • Breathwork led by Chris Pelczarski from Inner Earth Breathwork

      • Sign up and learn more below!

    • Yoga Class: Yoga Flow and Guided Stretching led by NIkki Massek

      • Sign up and learn more below!

  • 8-10 AM: Coffee, Donuts, & Informal Climbing Partner Meetup

    • Don’t have a partner for the day? Gather at the Outdoor Shop to fuel up on coffee and donuts, and connect with other climbers looking for partners!

    • Location: SD Outdoor Shop

Climbing Information

Map Overview of Climbing Area

The BHCC will not be setting up top ropes for Pumpfest this year due to concerns regarding liability. Instead, we want to encourage community collaboration and involvement by connecting climbers with one another. The map below serves as a general guide to the areas where most people will be gathering and climbing. For specific climbing routes, we will have guidebooks available to review. These guidebooks can also be purchased at the SD Outdoor Shop, Granite Sports, or Roam’n Around.

The green parking area is where you’ll find the BHCC booth, along with booths from other companies. We encourage everyone to carpool whenever possible, as parking is limited in the area.

Rock Climbing Clinics

Introduction to Rock Climbing

During this two-hour long course, you will learn the very basics of top rope rock climbing. Your instructors will teach you how to move effectively on the rocks, tie in with a figure eight follow through, top rope belay, and more! This course covers the foundational skills necessary to minimize risk while climbing in a single pitch, top rope setting. Please Call 605-484-7585 to fill out waivers before arrival. Equipment provided (Bring your own if you have it)

Saturday July 26, 2025 8:00am (Meet at SD Outdoor Shop)

$25 per person – 18 people max

Instructors: Matt Scherer, Amanda Danduran, & Graeme Breems

Sign up Below

Introduction to Multi-Pitch Sport Climbing

This four-hour long course is designed for those interested in multi-pitch sport climbing. This clinic will cover the basics of moving from sport climbing in a single pitch environment to entering the realm of beginner multi-pitch climbing. We will focus on efficiency, anchor building, and mitigating risk in the multi-pitch environment. Skill level: Beginner/Intermediate; but participants should have an understanding and comfortability with climbing in a single pitch environment.

Saturday July 26, 2025 8:00am (Meet at SD Outdoor Shop)

$45 per person – 8 people max

Equipment NOT provided (Please bring your harness, helmet, shoes, anchor building materials (A variety of slings of different lengths, locking carabiners, non-locking carabiners, cordelette (18ft or more), belay device(s), etc.) Bring any gear you would normally carry while single or multi-pitch sport climbing. Participants will receive 10% off their entire purchase at the South Dakota Outdoor Shop if you need to purchase required materials for the course. Please Call 605-484-7585 to fill out waivers before arrival.

Instructors: Peter Gaeta & Chris Spellmeyer

Sign Up Below!

Self & Partner Rescue Skills

This five-hour long course is designed for avid and advanced climbers that wish to learn the foundational skills used during self & partner rescue. This course will cover isolating a compromised rope, passing a knot while lowering & on rappel, load transfers, escaping a belay into a counter balanced rappel, mechanical advantage, a ‘pick off’ (ex: injured lead climber), etc. 

This is an ADVANCED level course, and participants should have a strong rock-climbing background. Participants should be familiar with various belay devices (assisted braking and not), extended rappelling, basic friction hitches, basic knot tying (figure eight, clove hitch, flat overhand, etc.) It is recommended that participants attempt to learn the munter hitch and the munter mule overhand prior to this course. While it is not mandatory for participants to be comfortable with the munter, exposure to the munter & munter mule overhand will allow more time to focus on the technical rescue skills covered in this course. The munter mule overhand is a foundational skill utilized in nearly all components of this rescue course. 

Equipment NOT provided (Please bring your harness, helmet, shoes, anchor building materials (A variety of slings of different lengths, locking carabiners, non-locking carabiners, cordelette, belay device(s), etc.) Bring any gear you would normally carry while single or multi-pitch sport climbing). A cordelette (18-21ft long) is VERY important to have for this course. It is also recommended that you bring a form of note taking to best retain key points (photos & video taking is appropriate & encouraged). Participants will receive 10% off their entire purchase at the South Dakota Outdoor Shop if you need to purchase required materials for the course. Please Call 605-484-7585 to fill out waivers before arrival.

Saturday, July 26, 2025 8:00am (Meet at SD Outdoor Shop)

$45 per person – 8 people max

Instructors: Brandon Emery & Doug Plourde

Sign Up Below

Saturday Morning Classes

Hatha Yoga

Class will be a hatha yoga class for all levels. The class will begin with ease and gentleness and gradually flow into some playful elements and postures meant to bring out the smiles, lightheartedness & community connection of Pumpfest. Class will be tailored for climbers with an ongoing focus on fingers & wrists, shoulders, neck, hips & hamstrings. The final portion will include a chance to submerge your body in deep relaxation & explore the freedom found from releasing tension & expectations.

Saturday, July 26, 2025 7:00am (Meet at SD Outdoor Shop)

$15 per person

Instructor: Sari Christiansen

Sari has 25+ years of experience in the movement arts including multiple certifications in over 1,000 hours of yoga training from globally recognized schools such as Iyengar Institute and Anusara School of Hatha Yoga. Sari has taught for Balance Studio, Prima School of Dance, Yoga Studio Rapid City, YMCA, SD Yoga Conference, Black Hills Dance Theatre, Custer County Schools, City of Lakewood, CO, City of Santa Barbara, CA, Yoga in the Park, private lessons and more.

She currently teaches at the Trailhouse Arts in Custer, SD. https://www.trailhousearts.com/classes-events

Instagram: sariniki.artnsoul

Sign up Below!

Becoming Lighter on the Rock Through Breath

Looking to have more low gravity days?  Breath is the conduit.  Our breath controls our frequency, what we feel, what we carry.  Through an hour of guided breathing with music, you'll embark on a surprisingly profound journey that will help you feel more in tune with yourself and reconnect you to your heart.  You'll learn to climb from the heart - to climb with breath, not with force - through conscious breathing.  Come get a taste.  If you booked a clinic, we will be back at the Outdoor Shop by 8:30 for gearing up.

Saturday, July 26, 2025 7:00am (Meet at SD Outdoor Shop)

$20 per person

Instructor: Chris Pelczarski

Sign Up Below!

Sunday Morning Classes

Yoga Flow & Guided Stretching

Class will be a yoga flow and guided stretching to help aid in recovery from the previous day of climbing!

Sunday, July 27, 2025 8:00am (Meet at SD Outdoor Shop)

$15 per person

Instructor: Nikki Massek

Signup Below!

Becoming Lighter on the Rock Through Breath

Looking to have more low gravity days?  Breath is the conduit.  Our breath controls our frequency, what we feel, what we carry.  Through an hour of guided breathing with music, you'll embark on a surprisingly profound journey that will help you feel more in tune with yourself and reconnect you to your heart.  You'll learn to climb from the heart - to climb with breath, not with force - through conscious breathing.  Come get a taste. 

Sunday, July 27, 2025 9:00am (Meet at Cathedral Spires Parking Lot)

Instructor: Chris Pelczarski

$20 per person

Sign Up Below!

Guest Speakers

Murray LaHood Burns | Black Hole Re-Sole

Murray has been resoling climbing shoes for the Black Hills area for over a year now. In addition, his focus lately has turned to producing custom climbing shoes based on each customers foot shape. Murray is excited to share what he has learned about building shoes, and how he developed his own process of going from a 3D scan of the climbers foot to a quality fitted shoe made from proven materials like suede and Davos rubber.

Luke Ross

Luke Ross was born and raised in the Black Hills, where he began climbing in 2002 and received his first camera at the age of 10. With a lifelong sense of adventure, he has found his dream in combining his passions for climbing and photography. In addition to these pursuits, Luke also enjoys mountain biking, kiteboarding, and anything that gets the heart rate up.

Dave Rone

Dave Rone started climbing in 1976, and has extensive experience with big rock, ice, and alpine routes. He fell in love with the Black Hills during his first trip in 1979, and he and Mary Jo have lived near Custer since 2018.

Free Camping in Custer

Don’t Panic LLC is proud to host Pumpfest camping at The Pond, a unique 10+ acre private property on the Mickelson Trail just north of Custer, SD! Don't Panic LLC equips outdoor adventurers with essential wilderness medicine skills, ensuring they can confidently respond to emergencies in remote, challenging environments.

Key Information for Your Stay

Car, van, tent, and hammock camping are available Friday, July 26, and Saturday, July 27. No RVs or pull-behind trailers due to space and road constraints.

Register to Camp: Fill out the registration form by clicking the button below.

Directions: Directions will be emailed to registered climbers by Thursday, July 25th.

Water: There is no potable water available on site. Please ensure you bring all the drinking water you

need.

Restrooms: A designated outhouse with a bucket toilet is located at the northern end of the property;

however, we encourage you to lighten your load before you arrive!

Fires: Please only have fires in the two designated fire rings. Always ensure fires are completely

extinguished and never left unattended. Be aware of any local fire bans.

Leave No Trace: We are committed to preserving this natural environment. Please pack out everything

you pack in, leaving no trash or waste behind.

Pets: Well-behaved, leashed dogs are welcome. Please ensure all pet waste is bagged and packed out.

For more extensive information about the property, including detailed rules and photos, please visit our Hipcamp page

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Monthly Meeting
Jul
21
7:00 PM19:00

Monthly Meeting

Join us for the Black Hills Climbers Coalition monthly meeting on Monday, July 21st at 7PM at Hay Camp Brewery in Rapid City. We'll be reviewing the needs for our upcoming event PUMPFEST! WE are heavilly looking volunteers so please reach out via email to sign up.

See you there!

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Monthly Meeting
Jun
29
7:00 PM19:00

Monthly Meeting

Join us for the Black Hills Climbers Coalition monthly meeting on Sunday, June 29th at 7PM at Cohort Brewery in Rapid City. We'll be reviewing results from the recent community survey, sharing updates from our meetings with local land managers, Pumpfest planning, and opening the floor for your questions and ideas.

See you there!

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Monthly Meeting
May
18
6:30 PM18:30

Monthly Meeting

Join us for the Black Hills Climbers Coalition monthly meeting on Sunday, May 18th at 6:30 PM at the South Dakota Outdoor Shop in Custer. We'll be reviewing results from the recent community survey, sharing updates from our meetings with local land managers, and opening the floor for your questions and ideas.

New 2025 Meeting Schedule:
Starting this month, BHCC meetings will be held during the third week of each month. The specific day and location may vary depending on the season and to ensure accessibility for different parts of the community. We’ll post each meeting’s details in advance on our website calendar and social media.

As always, if you miss a meeting, you can catch up anytime by reading the Meeting Notes on our website.

See you there!

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La Sportiva Shoe Demo
May
6
5:00 PM17:00

La Sportiva Shoe Demo

Join us on Tuesday, May 6th from 5:00–8:00 PM at Black Hills Basecamp for a special La Sportiva Shoe Demo!

This is a fantastic opportunity to test out the latest climbing shoes from La Sportiva, including models like the Finale, Skwama, and Mandala. Whether you're a seasoned climber or new to the sport, trying different shoes can help you find the perfect fit for your climbing style.

The Black Hills Climbers Coalition (BHCC) will also have a booth at the event—stop by to learn more about our initiatives, upcoming events, and how you can get involved in the climbing community. Don't miss this chance to connect with fellow climbers and enhance your gear knowledge!

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Reel Rock | Spearfish Screening
Mar
28
4:30 PM16:30

Reel Rock | Spearfish Screening

REEL ROCK

19

FILM TOUR

Screening on March 28th

REEL ROCK-19 FILM TOUR

Reel Rock Film Tour is back! The BHCC is happy to announce that we will be screening Reel Rock 19 on March 22nd & 28th

Reel Rock 19 showcases three world-premiere climbing films spanning disciplines, characters, and continents: a heartfelt story of second chances in love and climbing on Squamish’s legendary Cobra Crack; an outrageous 18-day big wall epic on Patagonia’s towering Torre Central; and the pursuit of a lifelong dream—a 5.15 first ascent—made possible by an unlikely partnership. Reel Rock 19 is on tour worldwide starting March 2025.

Scroll down for more information.

 

March 28th Screening | Matthew’s Opera House & Art Center | Spearfish, SD

When: March 28, 2025 | Doors Open @ 4:30PM | Film starts at 6PM

Where: Matthew’s Opera House & Art Center | 612 N Main St, Spearfish, SD 57783

Cost: $20 Pre-sale | $25 at the Door (Pre-sale ends March 24th)

Along with entry into the film, your ticket price includes entry into our gear prize raffle. The raffle includes an assortment of outdoor gear generously donated by local Black Hills businesses. Come join us at the Beacon’s comforting atmosphere while watching the top athletes in our sports push the limits to whats possible. Click the button below to buy tickets for this screening!

 

The Tour Lineup

DEATH OF VILLAINS

Featuring: Kai Lightner & Joe Kinder

A former child climbing-prodigy confronts his struggle with disordered eating to attempt his life-long dream of climbing a groundbreaking 5.15 first ascent, with the help of an unlikely, and controversial partner.

 

RIDERS ON THE STORM

Featuring: Siebe Vanhee, Sean Villanueva O’Driscoll & Nico Favresse

Three Belgian big-wallers endure eighteen days of howling snowstorms, frozen feet, and gnarly runouts in their attempt to make a long-coveted alpine first ascent. 

THE COBRA & THE HEART

Featuring:  Didier Berthod, Thomasina Pidgeon & Cedar Pidgeon

 A turbulent 20-year saga of love, loss, and redemption: a whirlwind romance, a crushing defeat on a legendary climb, a religious epiphany, and family betrayal, all building to a desperate bid for a rare second chance—at love, fatherhood, and climbing.

Our Sponsors

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Reel Rock | Custer Screening
Mar
22
5:30 PM17:30

Reel Rock | Custer Screening

REEL ROCK

19

FILM TOUR

Screening on March 22nd

REEL ROCK-19 FILM TOUR

Reel Rock Film Tour is back! The BHCC is happy to announce that we will be screening Reel Rock 19 on March 22nd & 28th

Reel Rock 19 showcases three world-premiere climbing films spanning disciplines, characters, and continents: a heartfelt story of second chances in love and climbing on Squamish’s legendary Cobra Crack; an outrageous 18-day big wall epic on Patagonia’s towering Torre Central; and the pursuit of a lifelong dream—a 5.15 first ascent—made possible by an unlikely partnership. Reel Rock 19 is on tour worldwide starting March 2025.

Scroll down for more information.

 

March 22nd Screening | The Custer Beacon | Custer, SD

When: March 22, 2025 | Doors Open @ 5:30PM | Film starts at 7PM

Where: The Custer Beacon | 351 Washington St., Custer, SD

Cost: $20 Pre-sale | $25 at the Door (Pre-sale ends March 17th)

Along with entry into the film, your ticket price includes entry into our gear prize raffle. The raffle includes an assortment of outdoor gear generously donated by local Black Hills businesses. Come join us at the Beacon’s comforting atmosphere while watching the top athletes in our sports push the limits to whats possible. Click the button below to buy tickets for this screening!

 

The Tour Lineup

DEATH OF VILLAINS

Featuring: Kai Lightner & Joe Kinder

A former child climbing-prodigy confronts his struggle with disordered eating to attempt his life-long dream of climbing a groundbreaking 5.15 first ascent, with the help of an unlikely, and controversial partner.

 

RIDERS ON THE STORM

Featuring: Siebe Vanhee, Sean Villanueva O’Driscoll & Nico Favresse

Three Belgian big-wallers endure eighteen days of howling snowstorms, frozen feet, and gnarly runouts in their attempt to make a long-coveted alpine first ascent. 

THE COBRA & THE HEART

Featuring:  Didier Berthod, Thomasina Pidgeon & Cedar Pidgeon

 A turbulent 20-year saga of love, loss, and redemption: a whirlwind romance, a crushing defeat on a legendary climb, a religious epiphany, and family betrayal, all building to a desperate bid for a rare second chance—at love, fatherhood, and climbing.

Our Sponsors

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BHCC Christmas Party
Dec
18
3:00 PM15:00

BHCC Christmas Party

🎄 BHCC Christmas Party 2024 🎄

When: Monday, December 18th, 6:00–8:00 PM
Where: Black Hills Basecamp

Let’s come together to celebrate a successful year for the Black Hills climbing community!

Why Celebrate?

2024 has been an incredible year for the BHCC and our climbing community. From advocating for climbing access to fostering sustainability and building stronger connections, we’ve accomplished so much together.

Want to learn more about what we achieved this year? Click here to see the highlights and milestones we’re celebrating!

What to Expect

  • Catered Food: Enjoy a delicious spread and connect with fellow climbers.

  • FREE Climbing for BHCC Members: A special thank-you to our members—climb on us!

  • Games and Giveaways: Have fun with some festive games and a chance to win exciting items! 🎁

  • Holiday Cheer: Celebrate the season and reflect on a fantastic year with your climbing community by bringing your best Christmas Sweater! 🎉

Not a BHCC Member Yet?

There’s no better time to join! Sign up today to support climbing access and enjoy free climbing at the party.

Let’s wrap up 2024 on a high note—celebrating our achievements, sharing good food, and enjoying a fun evening together!

See you there!

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Monthly Meeting
Nov
18
7:00 PM19:00

Monthly Meeting

Monthly Meeting

Every third Monday of each month in 2024, the BHCC will hold public meetings to inform BHCC members and the Black Hills Climbing community about topics such as volunteer opportunities, summaries of board member meetings, committee updates, etc.

The majority of our meetings will take place in Rapid City, with every third meeting being held in Custer or Spearfish. Please refer to the calendar and/or sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on meeting locations and times.

Click below to sign up for our newsletter and learn ways to be more involved/show support with the BHCC.

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Monthly Meeting
Oct
21
7:00 PM19:00

Monthly Meeting

Monthly Meeting

Every third Monday of each month in 2024, the BHCC will hold public meetings to inform BHCC members and the Black Hills Climbing community about topics such as volunteer opportunities, summaries of board member meetings, committee updates, etc.

The majority of our meetings will take place in Rapid City, with every third meeting being held in Custer or Spearfish. Please refer to the calendar and/or sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on meeting locations and times.

Click below to sign up for our newsletter and learn ways to be more involved/show support with the BHCC.

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Beans & Biners Climbing Event
Sep
21
9:00 AM09:00

Beans & Biners Climbing Event

  • Wrinkled Rock Campground | South Seas (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

Our yearly potluck/climbing event at South Seas will be held September 21st! Starting at around 9AM we will be setting up tables and ropes so people can enjoy, not only some high quality rock climbing, but food as well. Please feel free to add to the event by bringing your favorite dish/beverage.

If you have any more questions please reach out to us!

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Monthly Meeting
Sep
16
7:00 PM19:00

Monthly Meeting

Monthly Meeting

Every third Monday of each month in 2024, the BHCC will hold public meetings to inform BHCC members and the Black Hills Climbing community about topics such as volunteer opportunities, summaries of board member meetings, committee updates, etc.

The majority of our meetings will take place in Rapid City, with every third meeting being held in Custer or Spearfish. Please refer to the calendar and/or sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on meeting locations and times.

Click below to sign up for our newsletter and learn ways to be more involved/show support with the BHCC.

View Event →
Monthly Meeting
Aug
19
7:00 PM19:00

Monthly Meeting

Monthly Meeting

Every third Monday of each month in 2024, the BHCC will hold public meetings to inform BHCC members and the Black Hills Climbing community about topics such as volunteer opportunities, summaries of board member meetings, committee updates, etc.

The majority of our meetings will take place in Rapid City, with every third meeting being held in Custer or Spearfish. Please refer to the calendar and/or sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on meeting locations and times.

Click below to sign up for our newsletter and learn ways to be more involved/show support with the BHCC.

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Pumpfest 2024
Jul
26
to Jul 28

Pumpfest 2024

  • South Dakota Outdoor Shop (map)
  • Google Calendar ICS

OUR ANNUAL CUSTER STATE PARK CLIMBING FESTIVAL IS HERE!

Join us at Pumpfest, A Black Hills Climbing Festival hosted by the Black Hills Climbers Coalition!

Set against the stunning backdrop of the Black Hills, this event brings together climbers of all skill levels for a weekend of vertical crystal pinching. Whether you’re a seasoned climber or beginner, Pumpfest offers a variety of climbing routes and challenges.

Immerse yourself in a vibrant community of climbers, enjoy expert-led workshops and clinics, and discover the breathtaking beauty of the Black Hills while climbing among the beautiful landscape of Custer State Park.

This years festival will be held behind Sylvan Lake in the Inner Outlet Climbing Area. We are setting up ropes along the formations of Inner Outlet, Vertigo View, Inner Course, Practice Rock, Paydirt Pinnacle & Nora’s Wall, giving you dozens of options to climb some of CSP’s most classic routes. To learn more about the climbing route demographics proceed down this page.

(Refer to map layout below for exact location)

Festival Schedule

Friday, July 26th

1-4PM: Set up Top Ropes in Outlets Area (Volunteers Needed - Sign up below)

5PM: Arrive at Old Pine Social for Guest Speakers

5:30PM: Logan Grosz Climbing Presentation (Read more about Logan below)

6:15PM: Mike and Rusty Lewis Climbing Presentation (Read more about Mike and Rusty below)

7-9PM: Book Signing, BHCC Booth, Food Truck, & More

Saturday, July 27th

8 AM: Mobility Clinic with Upward Mobility Fitness (Sign up below)

8:30AM: Meet at the Outlet Parking lot for climbers coffee.

9AM - 11AM: Sylvan Rocks Climbing Clinic. (Sign up and clinic information below)

9:30AM - 3:00PM: CLIMB! (Please sign waiver below)

3:30-4PM: Begin Removing top ropes.

4-4:30PM: Arrive at South Dakota Outdoor Shop.

5-7PM: Games, Booths, Food Truck, & Gear Giveaways

Sunday, July 28th

8 AM: Sylvan Rocks Multi Pitch Clinic (6 People Max-sign up below)

8 AM: Sylvan Rocks Self & Partner Rescue Skills (8 People Max - sign up below)

Additional Information for Pumpfest

All of our participants are required to fill our our waiver to participate in the climbing event. You can fill that form out here, or the day of at our booth.

Map Overview of Climbing Area

Sylvan Rocks Climbing Clinics

To sign up for any of the Sylvan Rocks Clinics please call this number: (605) 484-7585

Introduction to Rock Climbing

During this two-hour long course, you will learn the very basics of top rope rock climbing. Your instructors will teach you how to move effectively on the rocks, tie in with a figure eight follow through, top rope belay, and more! This course covers the foundational skills necessary to minimize risk while climbing in a single pitch, top rope setting.

Saturday July 27, 2024 9:00am (Meet at Pumpfest check in)

$20 per person – 12 people max

Equipment provided (Bring your own if you have it)

Instructors:

Matt Scherer: AMGA Single Pitch Instructor

https://www.sylvanrocks.com/matt-scherer

Brandon Emery: AMGA Apprentice Rock Guide, AMGA Single Pitch Instructor

https://www.sylvanrocks.com/brandon-emery

Introduction to Multi-Pitch Sport Climbing

This four-hour long course is designed for those interested in multi-pitch sport climbing. This clinic will cover the basics of moving from sport climbing in a single pitch environment to entering the realm of beginner multi-pitch climbing. We will focus on efficiency, anchor building, and mitigating risk in the multi-pitch environment. Skill level: Beginner/Intermediate; but participants should have an understanding and comfortability with climbing in a single pitch environment.

Sunday July 28, 2024 8:00am (Meet at Sylvan Lake General Store)

$40 per person – 6 people max

Equipment NOT provided (Please bring your harness, helmet, shoes, anchor building materials (A variety of slings of different lengths, locking carabiners, non-locking carabiners, cordelette (18ft or more), belay device(s), etc.) Bring any gear you would normally carry while single or multi-pitch sport climbing. Participants will receive 10% off their entire purchase at the South Dakota Outdoor Shop if you need to purchase required materials for the course.

Instructor:

Ben Wade: AMGA Apprentice Rock Guide, AMGA Single Pitch Instructor

https://www.sylvanrocks.com/ben-wade

Self & Partner Rescue Skills

This five-hour long course is designed for avid and advanced climbers that wish to learn the foundational skills used during self & partner rescue. This course will cover isolating a compromised rope, passing a knot while lowering & on rappel, load transfers, escaping a belay into a counter balanced rappel, mechanical advantage, a ‘pick off’ (ex: injured lead climber), etc. 

This is an ADVANCED level course, and participants should have a strong rock-climbing background. Participants should be familiar with various belay devices (assisted braking and not), extended rappelling, basic friction hitches, basic knot tying (figure eight, clove hitch, flat overhand, etc.) It is recommended that participants attempt to learn the munter hitch and the munter mule overhand prior to this course. While it is not mandatory for participants to be comfortable with the munter, exposure to the munter & munter mule overhand will allow more time to focus on the technical rescue skills covered in this course. The munter mule overhand is a foundational skill utilized in nearly all components of this rescue course. 

Equipment NOT provided (Please bring your harness, helmet, shoes, anchor building materials (A variety of slings of different lengths, locking carabiners, non-locking carabiners, cordelette, belay device(s), etc.) Bring any gear you would normally carry while single or multi-pitch sport climbing). A cordelette (18-21ft long) is VERY important to have for this course. It is also recommended that you bring a form of note taking to best retain key points (photos & video taking is appropriate & encouraged). Participants will receive 10% off their entire purchase at the South Dakota Outdoor Shop if you need to purchase required materials for the course.

Sunday July 28, 2024 8:00am (Meet at Sylvan Lake General Store)

$40 per person – 8 people max

Instructor:

Ryan Emery: AMGA Apprentice Rock Guide, AMGA Apprentice Alpine Guide, AMGA Single Pitch Instructor

https://www.sylvanrocks.com/ryan-emery

Chris Lile: AMGA Assistant Rock Guide, AMGA Apprentice Alpine Guide, AMGA Apprentice Ski Guide, AMGA Ice Instructor Course, AMGA Single Pitch Instructor

https://www.sylvanrocks.com/chris-lile

 

Upward Mobility Fitness Clinic

Feeling achy, tired, or stiff? The Mobility Class is designed to assist your recovery from long days of climbing and improve your mobility so you can continue to send hard for years to come. During this hour of active recovery, we will be digging into the tightness and stiffness by stretching, improving joint range and motion, and some intentional joint stabilization activities. While providing a laid back, social atmosphere with chill tunes, this class provides a different approach to recovery than yoga. We will focus on learning the joint and muscle care necessary to keep your body happy all season long.

People will need: Comfy clothes to move in and a yoga mat/blanket if they have one.

Saturday July 27, 2024 7:30am

$12 per person - 15 people max

Sign Up Here: http://www.upwardmobilityfitness.com/pumpfest

Instructor: Carissa Schwinghammer

 

Guest Speakers


Logan Grosz

Photo by Luke Ross

By day, Logan Grosz is a software engineer; by night, he's a dedicated guidebook author. A father of two beautiful girls and a loving husband, Logan has spent the past five years merging his software engineering expertise with his passion for climbing to create the first-ever Black Hills Bouldering Guidebook. Join us to hear Logan share his journey as he took on the monumental task of documenting over 2,000 boulder problems within the Black Hills.


Mike & Rusty Lewis

Mike Lewis on the Back Cover of Vern Phinney’s Mt. Rushmore Guidebook.

If you've been ticking off the classic routes in Mt. Rushmore and Custer State Park, you've likely encountered the work of Mike and Rusty Lewis. Join us on Friday night as the Lewis Brothers showcase their journey from their early days in the 1980s as the fearless "Rope-less Runner Raiders" to becoming a dynamic duo whose contributions have significantly shaped Black Hills climbing into what it is today.

Some notable Lewis Brothers routes:

Hydra Crack, | V3 X

Mothra | 5.13-

Bronchial Distress | 5.10+ PG13

Warning | 5.12- PG13

Rockwalk | 5.11 PG13

Birds | 5.12-

Walking the Plankton | 5.12+

Butteryfly | 5.12+

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Monthly Meeting
Jul
15
7:00 PM19:00

Monthly Meeting

Monthly Meeting

Every third Monday of each month in 2024, the BHCC will hold public meetings to inform BHCC members and the Black Hills Climbing community about topics such as volunteer opportunities, summaries of board member meetings, committee updates, etc.

The majority of our meetings will take place in Rapid City, with every third meeting being held in Custer or Spearfish. Please refer to the calendar and/or sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on meeting locations and times.

Click below to sign up for our newsletter and learn ways to be more involved/show support with the BHCC.

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Monthly Meeting (Spearfish)
Jun
17
7:00 PM19:00

Monthly Meeting (Spearfish)

Monthly Meeting

Every third Monday of each month in 2024, the BHCC will hold public meetings to inform BHCC members and the Black Hills Climbing community about topics such as volunteer opportunities, summaries of board member meetings, committee updates, etc.

The majority of our meetings will take place in Rapid City, with every third meeting being held in Custer or Spearfish. Please refer to the calendar and/or sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on meeting locations and times.

Click below to sign up for our newsletter and learn ways to be more involved/show support with the BHCC.

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Mt. Rushmore Trail Day
Jun
6
10:00 AM10:00

Mt. Rushmore Trail Day

Trail Day with Mt. Rushmore

Come join the BHCC & Mt. Rushmore in cleaning up the Presidential Trail along the monument of Mt. Rushmore. This will begin on June 6th from 10-12pm and will mainly involve the removal of invasive plant species and weeds along the trail. Hope to see you there!

There will also be another trail day with Mt. Rushmore along the Wrinkled Rock Climbing area coming this July! So, stay tuned for more information on this.

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Black Hills Bouldering Guidebook Launch Party
Jun
4
6:00 PM18:00

Black Hills Bouldering Guidebook Launch Party

Black Hills Bouldering Guidebook Launch Party

This event will be taking place at Black Hills Basecamp Climbing Gym from 6-8 PM in celebrating the release of the first ever Black Hills Bouldering Guidebook by Logan Grosz!


  • If you purchase a guidebook at this event you will be entered to win a crash pad.

  • There will be food supplied.

  • Logan will be present to sign books.

  • Local Vendors, like Black Hole Resole, Death Grip, & Hold my Earrings by Harper will be present as well!

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Monthly Meeting
May
20
7:00 PM19:00

Monthly Meeting

Monthly Meeting

Every third Monday of each month in 2024, the BHCC will hold public meetings to inform BHCC members and the Black Hills Climbing community about topics such as volunteer opportunities, summaries of board member meetings, committee updates, etc.

The majority of our meetings will take place in Rapid City, with every third meeting being held in Custer or Spearfish. Please refer to the calendar and/or sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on meeting locations and times.

Click below to sign up for our newsletter and learn ways to be more involved/show support with the BHCC.

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Reel Rock | Custer Screening
May
11
6:00 PM18:00

Reel Rock | Custer Screening

REEL ROCK

18

FILM TOUR

Screening on May 11th.

REEL ROCK-18 FILM TOUR

Reel Rock Film Tour is back! The BHCC is happy to announce that we will be screening Reel Rock 18 on May 10th & 11th.

Reel Rock 18 is on tour worldwide. Immerse yourself in four new climbing films from across the globe: a visionary first ascent on Japan’s mythical Mt. Mizugaki; a climbing community held together in war-torn Ukraine; a treacherous free ascent of Jirishanca in the Peruvian Andes; and an exploration of Mallorca’s deep-water soloing. Presented by The North Face, supported by Black Diamond and Yeti.

Scroll down for more information.

 

May 11th Screening | The Custer Beacon | Custer, SD

When: May 11th, 2023 | Doors Open @ 6PM | Film starts at 7PM

Where: The Custer Beacon | 351 Washington St., Custer, SD

Cost: $20 Pre-sale | $25 at the Door (Pre-sale ends April 30th)

Along with entry into the film, your ticket price includes entry into our gear prize raffle. The raffle includes an assortment of outdoor gear generously donated by local Black Hills businesses. Come join us at the Beacon’s comforting atmosphere while watching the top athletes in our sports push the limits to whats possible. Click the button below to buy tickets for this screening!

 

The Tour Lineup

Jirishanca

Featuring: Josh Wharton and Vince Anderson

Locations: Jirishanca, Peruvian Andes

Renowned alpinists Josh Wharton and Vince Anderson attempt a free ascent of the Jirishanca, an epic 20,000-foot peak in the Peruvian Andes. The duo will have to tackle 5.13 face climbing, horizontal ice roofs, technical mixed terrain, and treacherous snow mushrooms as they reconcile the inherent risk of climbing with their love of alpine adventure.   

 

Yeah Buddy

Featuring: Angie Scarth-Johnson, Hazel Findlay

Location: Mallorca, Spain

 Australian climber Angie Scarth-Johnson, who first made her mark setting records at a young age, teams up with veteran adventure climber Hazel Findlay to explore the best of Mallorca’s deep-water soloing.

With My Heart

Featuring: Sachi Amma

Location: Japan

Follow the philosophical journey of Japanese climbing phenom Sachi Amma, as he evolves from three-time world champion to traditional climbing purist, culminating in a visionary first ascent on the mythical Mt. Mizugaki.

Climbing Never Die

Featuring: Matt Groom

Location: Ukraine

Climbing journalist Matt Groom journeys deep into war-torn Ukraine to discover a community held together by climbing and patriotism, but indelibly changed by war.

Our Sponsors

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Reel Rock | Rapid City Screening
May
10
6:00 PM18:00

Reel Rock | Rapid City Screening

REEL ROCK

18

FILM TOUR

Screening on May 10th.

REEL ROCK-18 FILM TOUR

Reel Rock Film Tour is back! The BHCC is happy to announce that we will be screening Reel Rock 18 on May 10th & 11th.

Reel Rock 18 is on tour worldwide. Immerse yourself in four new climbing films from across the globe: a visionary first ascent on Japan’s mythical Mt. Mizugaki; a climbing community held together in war-torn Ukraine; a treacherous free ascent of Jirishanca in the Peruvian Andes; and an exploration of Mallorca’s deep-water soloing. Presented by The North Face, supported by Black Diamond and Yeti.

Scroll down for more information.

 

May 10th Screening | The Elks Theater | Rapid City, SD

When: May 10th, 2023 | Doors Open @ 6PM | Film starts at 7PM

Where: The Elk Theater | 512 6th St., Rapid City, SD

Cost: $20 Pre-sale | $25 at the Door (Pre-sale ends April 30th)

Along with entry into the film, your ticket price includes entry into our gear prize raffle. The raffle includes an assortment of outdoor gear generously donated by local Black Hills businesses. Come join us at the Beacon’s comforting atmosphere while watching the top athletes in our sports push the limits to whats possible. Click the button below to buy tickets for this screening!

 

The Tour Lineup

Jirishanca

Featuring: Josh Wharton and Vince Anderson

Locations: Jirishanca, Peruvian Andes

Renowned alpinists Josh Wharton and Vince Anderson attempt a free ascent of the Jirishanca, an epic 20,000-foot peak in the Peruvian Andes. The duo will have to tackle 5.13 face climbing, horizontal ice roofs, technical mixed terrain, and treacherous snow mushrooms as they reconcile the inherent risk of climbing with their love of alpine adventure.   

 

Yeah Buddy

Featuring: Angie Scarth-Johnson, Hazel Findlay

Location: Mallorca, Spain

 Australian climber Angie Scarth-Johnson, who first made her mark setting records at a young age, teams up with veteran adventure climber Hazel Findlay to explore the best of Mallorca’s deep-water soloing.

With My Heart

Featuring: Sachi Amma

Location: Japan

Follow the philosophical journey of Japanese climbing phenom Sachi Amma, as he evolves from three-time world champion to traditional climbing purist, culminating in a visionary first ascent on the mythical Mt. Mizugaki.

Climbing Never Die

Featuring: Matt Groom

Location: Ukraine

Climbing journalist Matt Groom journeys deep into war-torn Ukraine to discover a community held together by climbing and patriotism, but indelibly changed by war.

Our Sponsors

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Mt. Rushmore Trail Day
Apr
20
10:00 AM10:00

Mt. Rushmore Trail Day

Mount Rushmore Trail Day/Clean Up

 

    Join us at Mount Rushmore National Memorial to celebrate National Volunteer Week. Members of the community are invited to join park staff to assist in enhancing the beauty of the location by picking up litter and other items that have found their way off the main trail.

This event kicks off National Park Week and celebrates the spirit of voluntarism and community engagement that have kept places worth supporting and visiting for over a hundred years. Registration for the event can be completed below or through a sign-up on the day of the event.  

This will include the removal of litter on select areas within Mount Rushmore with the company of a National Park Service employee. The event will begin at 10:00 AM MDT. We look forward to seeing you there! 

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Monthly Meeting
Apr
15
7:00 PM19:00

Monthly Meeting

Monthly Meeting

Every third Monday of each month in 2024, the BHCC will hold public meetings to inform BHCC members and the Black Hills Climbing community about topics such as volunteer opportunities, summaries of board member meetings, committee updates, etc.

The majority of our meetings will take place in Rapid City, with every third meeting being held in Custer or Spearfish. Please refer to the calendar and/or sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on meeting locations and times.

Click below to sign up for our newsletter and learn ways to be more involved/show support with the BHCC.

View Event →
Monthly Meeting
Mar
18
7:00 PM19:00

Monthly Meeting

Monthly Meeting

Every third Monday of each month in 2024, the BHCC will hold public meetings to inform BHCC members and the Black Hills Climbing community about topics such as volunteer opportunities, summaries of board member meetings, committee updates, etc.

The majority of our meetings will take place in Rapid City, with every third meeting being held in Custer or Spearfish. Please refer to the calendar and/or sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on meeting locations and times.

Click below to sign up for our newsletter and learn ways to be more involved/show support with the BHCC.

View Event →
Monthly Meeting
Feb
19
7:00 PM19:00

Monthly Meeting

Monthly Meeting

Every third Monday of each month in 2024, the BHCC will hold public meetings to inform BHCC members and the Black Hills Climbing community about topics such as volunteer opportunities, summaries of board member meetings, committee updates, etc.

The majority of our meetings will take place in Rapid City, with every third meeting being held in Custer or Spearfish. Please refer to the calendar and/or sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on meeting locations and times.

Click below to sign up for our newsletter and learn ways to be more involved/show support with the BHCC.

View Event →
Monthly Meeting
Jan
15
7:00 PM19:00

Monthly Meeting

Monthly Meeting

Every third Monday of each month in 2024, the BHCC will hold public meetings to inform BHCC members and the Black Hills Climbing community about topics such as volunteer opportunities, summaries of board member meetings, committee updates, etc.

The majority of our meetings will take place in Rapid City, with every third meeting being held in Custer or Spearfish. Please refer to the calendar and/or sign up for our newsletter to stay updated on meeting locations and times.

Click below to sign up for our newsletter and learn ways to be more involved/show support with the BHCC.

View Event →
Dave Rone Ice Climbing Presentation
Dec
9
7:30 PM19:30

Dave Rone Ice Climbing Presentation

Dave Rone Ice Climbing Presentation

When | December 9th @ 7:30 PM (After Board Elections)

Where | Black Hills Helicopters, Inc

in Keystone, SD

24035 US-16A, Keystone, SD 57751

Dave Rone started rock and ice climbing at Interstate Park, on the St Croix River between Minnesota and Wisconsin, almost 50 years ago. He made his first trip to Devils Tower in 1977, and a few years later found the Black Hills. And since then, he’s visited some other places that are almost as good! 

Using photos, and video, Dave’s presentation, Winter Climbing: Laughs, Gasps, and Occasional Sends, will take you through some of the stuff that's gone on over the years. And it will highlight some remarkable areas and routes, including the Canadian Rockies, the Lake Superior region, Quebec, Norway, and Patagonia. 

Whether you're a winter climber or not, you’ll find Winter Climbing entertaining and informative, and it may even lead you to stepping into crampons and grabbing ice tools!  

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BHCC Board Member Elections
Dec
9
6:00 PM18:00

BHCC Board Member Elections

BHCC Board Member Elections

Starting at 6 PM

Located at:

BLack Hills Helicopters, INc.

24035 US-16A, Keystone, SD 57751

This year we will be using an online voting platform so BHCC members who are unable to be at the location for elections can still vote.

Click below to vote now!

Nominations

Brandon Emery | Vice President

Jim Slichter | Treasurer

Mark Rafferty | President

John lang | Secretary

Jason McNabb | Member at Large

Colin Boyd | Vice President

Chris Pelczarski | Secretary

Peyton Rafferty | Publicist

Ron Yahne | Member at Large

Katy Mazer | Publicist

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Dec
4
6:00 PM18:00

Kyle Rott | Celebration of Life

Kyle Rott Celebration of Life

On Monday, December 4th the South Dakota Outdoor Shop will be hosting a celebration of life event for Kyle Rott, an avid climber who dedicated a lot of his time to climbing in the Black Hills of South Dakota and across North America. Kyle passed away on November 25th, 2023 in an ice climbing accident in Hyalite Canyon near Bozeman, Montana.

The casual gathering will begin at 6:00pm MST and will serve as a welcoming space for individuals to come together and socialize, share experiences & memories, and most importantly unite as a supportive community.

Please consider bringing shareable snacks. The South Dakota Outdoor Shop will be donating a keg to the event, and other beverages will be available for purchase.

If anyone would like to bring any memorabilia to display and share please do so. The South Dakota Outdoor Shop is working towards creating a space for stories and history regarding Black Hills climbing, and a portion of the space will be dedicated for Kyle. If individuals feel inclined to have memorabilia on display at the shop after the event, please consider leaving it.

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