News & Observer | newsobserver.com | 2008 NCAA Men's Bracket

I worry about you folks come the dark, cold days of winter. I worry about those of you used to going on long, toasty bike rides under a hot summer sun. I worry about those of you who love a daybreak run before the heat of the day. I worry about anyone who tends to go dormant over the winter months.

See the best vertical problem solvers around Saturday at the Raleigh Rampage.

Which is why I'm always looking for alternatives for y'all. One alternative you might not have considered: indoor rock climbing. There's no better time to get a taste of what the sport is like than this Saturday at the Triangle Rock Club's RALEIGH RAMPAGE! (Sorry. It just screamed to be yelled in capital letters.)

The Rampage is an American Bouldering Series event with cash prizes bound to attract some of the best indoor route-solving climbers in the region. Watch in awe as experienced climbers defy gravity on assorted routes on the Morrisville climbing gym's 9,000-square-feet of climbing wall. See how it's done, then investigate the possiblity of a lessons.

Competition is from noon to 4 p.m., with the finals beginning at 5 p.m. And if you're an accomplished climber and want a shot at the wall, it'll cost you $35 ($30 if you're a gym member) if you register before Saturday, $40 if you sign up Saturday.