Sunday, June 12, 2011

Thrashers 2011
















by Don Chodzicki

The annual Thrashers Rock Climbing trip took place during the May long weekend. Roughly 30 section members gathered in the Wasootch Creek area of Kananaskis to test their climbing skills on rock slab.

Morning of Day 1 participants started with a refresher of proper belay technique followed by warm-up climbs on "D" slab. This was one of larger groups in recent years and with an abundance of trip leaders and 10 ropes on the go plenty of climbing challenges were offered. As particular routes lost interest our leaders did a great job of setting up new routes. Throughout Day 1 other leaders shared their knowledge of setting and cleaning anchors and teaching rappel technique. Luckily the worrisome rain that had been forecast in the days leading up to the trip never materialized and the energy levels of participants was high until 5 or 5:30.

Day 2 our leaders once again headed out early to set ropes before the rest of the group arrived (thanks guys!). Wasootch was extra busy due to a climbing course being taught there that day, but luckily both groups were able to achieve what we wanted. The forecasted rain finally appeared a strong possibility around 2pm and a decision was made to start taking ropes down. As the group drove back to Canmore in the rain I think we all agreed the right decision was made to head back.

Overall the trip was a big success with 3 or 4 new ACC members and everyone looking forward to their next climb.

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