On Saturday, we had our 2nd field trip for Basic Rock Climbing school. Kent took us to Dome Rock, where we took the students up their first “multi-pitch” climb.
The first “pitch” was 4th class and ended at a large alcove/ledge with a tree. The next pitch was low 5th class. I led the crack while Kent put up a fun face section, and Michael assisted with the belay station. Our 6 students (Erin, Derrick, Chris, Max, Ian, and Walt) did great.
Kent (Awesome Instructor) At the Belay Alcove
Michael (Fabulous Assistant) Climbing Pitch 2
Michael With Walt & Max, Preparing for Pitch 2
Walt Reaching the Belay Alcove:
Derek Cleaning Protection From Pitch 1:
Chris Putting Erin on Belay
Erin Climbing Pitch 1:
Derek Finishing Crux Crack Moves:
Michael & I had fun helping the students navigate the belay stations. There is just a lot to remember for first-timers! I believe having us right there with them at each belay helped to ease any lingering doubt. In any event, with this mellow of a day, everybody did awesome. I was so happy they did so well, some of the other groups were probably not blessed with such a naturally gifted crew.
Now, they just need to get out there and climb. Experience is key to remembering all the stuff we made them cram in their noggins. 8^)
Tags: Basic Rock School, Boulder, CMC, CO, Dome Rock