Monday, May 19, 2008

Introducing Rock Climbing on the Sunny Isle of Man

The 'Introduction to Rock Climbing' course ran as a two day block this weekend, in excellent conditions, with the rock showing the benefits of many days of baking in the sun..

After some preliminary ropework and general safety checks in the Adventurous Experiences Lecture room, sections of Fenella Beach area were used; setting up anchors bottom rope systems and coaching progressive climbing techniques. The first day finished with a bouldering session highlighting the importance of balance in the sport.

The South-West Coast was a sun trap for the second day's climbing, alternating top and bottom belays and routes of varying difficulty. We saw a couple of climbers out during the day, and I think we'll be seeing a few more with the summer officially here :)

Sunday's Sea Kayaking courses and trips ran to form, (ice-cream breaks between sessions) the last trip of the day (Intermediate / Advanced) leaving the beach close to five, circumnavigating the Calf with the spring flood tide, visiting Chickens Rock which was running nicely. Seals basking on the rocks eying us with nochalant disinterest as we nogotiated the strong eddies and whirlpools forming nearby. A small Harbour Porpoise sufaced three times close to the group and then it was time to concentate on breaking into the eddie created by Chickens itself.. Slightly exhilarated and a little damp, the group then headed for a sunbathe by South Harbour... before returning to Port Erin as the huge sun sank into the sea beside Bradda Head, absolutely fabulous!

Lastly, a few pics from the staff 'Classic' adventurous Experience.. enjoy!

ps. With the first Basking Shark sighting of 2008 from a boat about a mile off Peel yesterday (Sunday) we look forward to more exciting encounters this year... :)

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