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LAS VEGAS, Nev. — The ninth annual “Mountain Gear Presents: Red Rock Rendezvous” (RRR) rock-climbing festival, title sponsored by The North Face, returns to the Red Rock Canyon National Conservation Area near Las Vegas on March 30 through April 1.

This year’s event is limited to the first 1,000 registrants; early registration is recommended. To register, visit http://www.RedRockRendezvous.com.

For the 2012 RRR, Mountain Gear is adding Special Friday Clinics to the three-day event that include a range of outdoor activities and classes, including UClimb’s Learn to Climb Clinic.

Special Friday clinics include the following:

• Multiple pitch climbing for intermediate climbers

• Wilderness first aid – an eight-hour course to earn certification card

• Warrior’s Way with author and climber Arno Ilgner

• Map and compass class

• Self-rescue rock rescue class

• Intensive trail running

• Half-day mountain biking clinic

• UClimb’s Learn to Climb Clinic for less-experienced climbers and those who have never attempted the difficulty levels of the Red Rock Canyon.

UClimb is designed to teach all ages how to rock climb in small-group settings with other amateur climbers. The full-day introduction clinics will teach climbing fundamentals to succeed at Red Rocks and other outdoor settings.

The festival also will offer clinics for advanced and intermediate climbers on Saturday and Sunday. For a complete list of registration packages and prices, visit http://www.RedRockRendezvous.com.

Event proceeds will benefit the Access Fund, a national nonprofit organization dedicated to keeping climbing areas open and conserving the climbing environment. Other benefiting organizations include the American Safe Climbing Association, the American Alpine Club, Friends of Red Rocks and the Las Vegas Climbers Liaison Council.

For more information, call (800) 829-2009 or visit http://www.RedRockRendezvous.com.