Ascending Weekend - Sat Apr 22

Have you ever wondered what to do if you ever rappelled down into a cave and later realized you actually had to get back up? This and other similar situations requires learning the ascending technique.

This weekend focused on ascending a fixed rope in a controlled and safe manner. We tied the Bachmann and Kleimheist knots using slings. The optional Prusik knot was also tried out.

Saturday, at Rattlesnake Rocks, was once again a nice and beautiful day with lots of happy faces. The students kept coming back to the delight of this weekend's leaders, Bill Atkison and Julie Pereault.

Gladys and Anna watching Dick demonstrating the ascending technique.

We all looking what we have in the supply bag to build anchors. However David seems to be a little confused?

Meg tying a figure eight on a bight. John, David and Julie not too excited about it, are looking elsewhere.

The first step is to set up proper anchors. Brian and Callie think they got it right, while Don is making sure.

Almost there.. Tracie on her way on her first ascent. Zsuzsa and Brian are there, but will not help unless deemed absolutley necessary.

Jason on his way up or did he change his mind? Who knows what goes through his head at this moment.

Don is demontrating the steps for proper ascending.

The toughest part is often getting off the ground as David soon will experience. Meg is ready belaying him for safety precaution.

The elusive edge is the last part and can be a tricky ordeal. Just get the leg up there, tie another knot and haul yourself up. Not always too easy as Maureen finds out.

Erin and Seth in another world. They dream of ascending El Capitan's 3000 foot cliffs.

End of day climbing, where Darryll tries his skills. Jason is belaying while Tracie in the back eagerly pointing out where to go.