Bucket & Trad Weekend - Sat Apr 29

Last weekend of classes and time for graduation. However first we had to comlete a few more tasks before we would be ready for the New Second's weekend and future climbs in the climbing community.

This wonderful Saturday at the Quincy Quarries was spent catching a simulated leader fall, learning about seconding a lead climb and practicing a two-pitch multiple rappel.

The final step before this weekend's leaders, Lara Nichols and Steve Power, let us graduate was a full review of all previously learned knots.

A station where knots from previouos classes are demonstrated. Julia to the right is however preoccupied elsewhere.

Tong standing on his toes, trying his best to stand put. The leader, in the form of a concrete weight, might survive the fall afterall.

After each "leader fall", the weight needs to be put back in place. Callie and Maureen couldn't be happier performing this task, over and over.

Paul demonstrating all the toys a lead climber has in his arsenal. Mike observing and tries his best to remember each tool and how it's used.

The multi-pitch rappel is started using carabiners, then swicthed to use a device. Tracie is on her way to the satisfaction of Darryll, Julia and Bill.

Brandi shows Karla the true usage of slings and why every climber needs a few.

Karla can only smile, knowing she is next in line down the rope. Out of nowhere, Martin pops out and grabs a few photos.

Halfway down, Julia switches rope and rappelling devices. Frank is there helping out.

One of many graduates today, Ron shakes hand with Jeff, thanking him for all the work that went into this class.

Julia, restless from sitting still, on her way to the top. She is just one dyno move away from touching that carabiner.

Meanwhile, Brandi is seconding for David, cleaning up after him.

A few more students on the way to graduate. Meg filling out the last comments in the green book, while Chad making sure the given t-shirts smells fine.

Nothing beats a visit to Darcy's after a good day climbing. At least Bill, Mike, Steve, Gary and Meg think so.