Climbing/Slacklining at the 2008 Shootout

[Prezwoodz]

Here is where you can ask questions or make plans with other dgrinner climbers to get together and supplement the photography activities during the 2008 SmugMug/Dgrin Shootout in Moab, UT October 8-11, 2008.


"You see a cliff and in the middle of the cliff you think you can see a hole. Maybe an opening to a house from long ago perched high above the valley, unreachable. You run home and grab your rope, harness, helmet, and ascender and head back out the cliff. After anchoring to a tree you carefully tie the end of your rope together and rappel down to the hole. Looking inside you see pots, drawings, and a figure sitting against the wall with only bones left to show his soul. You are the first to see it in possibly hundreds of years and most definitely the first ever to photograph. You take your pictures, document your discovery and ascend the rope back to safety. Now you have to decide who to send your photos to!"

Climbing is a sport which has always seemed exclusive to those who don't normally participate yet climbing is open to everyone wanting to try. We will try and get everyone involved who is able and willing to scale ropes, rocks, and sometimes a mixture of both. Taking photos while climbing takes a certain finesse that is difficult and often dangerous to learn on ones own but with the help of John and I we will get everyone above the action where the world of the climbing butt shot is no more! There will be a lesson on climbing and belaying before anyone is able to get on the rock. This should only take an hour or so but the learning will go on throughout the day. The equipment required for climbing can be rented in Moab and we should be able to get sizes and have them picked up and ready to go. Anyone who wishes to buy their own equipment but is unsure of what to get here is a small list: Harness, helmet, climbing shoes, locking caribiner, belay device (ATC). Its a small list and with sales and returns at outdoor shops shouldn't cost to much if you wish to outfit yourself for a lifetime of fun!

Slacklining and Highlining are essentially the same but can seem as a whole different animal. Slacklining is walking a piece of 1 inch tubular climbing webbing close to the ground. It becomes a highline when you add altitude, as an example the current highest Highline is to the Lost Arrow Spire in Yosemite and is 1000ft off the deck. We will not be that high. We will setup slacklines which anyone who would like to try walking them low and then we will be setting up atleast one highline that anyone willing can walk. We do set up highlines to be completely redundant with the highest safety measures. When Highlines are being walked the opportunity for great photos is limited only by your imagination. The great part about knowing your way around with a rope is instead of being on a plane of horizontal you have added a vertical element to your photo's. Get below or above the action!

There are ways to prepare ahead for anyone who would like to. We can help direct you to setting up a slackline or most places will have a local climbing gym offering classes on how to belay and / or climb. Almost all gyms also have rentals.

Although I have talked a lot about the climbing and highlining aspect I know that at heart we are all photographers and the idea of learning these new type of techniques is to have an increased advantage at getting your perfect shot. If there are any question please feel free to fire away!

Prezwoodz and Coldclimb


INterested:

Aaron - anwmn1
Andrew - greenpea +1
April - aktse
Chris - the godfather
Clifford Whitmore- CliffW
Cuong Nguyen
David - devbobo
Erik - DoctorIt
Joel - kdog
Leah Peasley
Matthew - mANVIL
Nick - Gluwater
Nikolai - Nikolai
Stephanie - schmoo
Teresa T- ttorres33
Tony - Leaforte
Travis - zweiblumen



There is another thing I forgot to add So here it is:

One of our main focus points will be anchoring and rigging. This is probably the most important aspect of climbing outside of just being willing to head up the wall. We will show you how to setup anchors, the safety points, directionals, and slackline rigging. To be able to go up on one rope and have another rope you use as a directional can be an intricate setup. Hopefully we can give a good idea of how to do that safely and effectively!

Yup were here for any questions! Although we better not have to twist any arms to get anyone to join! :wink

I am really excited about this opportunity and I am hoping that some others are as well.

Haha Okay Andy posted a subtle message about this thread being worthless without Pics....So Heres A picspasm of pictures along the lines of what we will be doing!

This picture is from the Fisher Towers in the Moab area. Great for climbing and the features are incredible for photography! This is called the Cobra.
http://prezwoodz.smugmug.com/photos/176989397-L-1.jpg

See the squiggly little peak on the right that looks like a crooked line? Thats a climbing route that we may possibly be able to do.
http://prezwoodz.smugmug.com/photos/176989362-L.jpg

And heres John on it. This is 300ft up.
http://prezwoodz.smugmug.com/photos/176989494-L-1.jpg

Theres plenty inbetween that 300ft route and the ground though and that would be a difficult route we may be able to do on say the last day. But for highlining and slacklnining heres some of Johns pictures from the area.

http://www.morffed.com/image.php?action=image&dir=2006&image=slack22.jpg

Plenty of room for photogs and onlookers
http://www.morffed.com/image.php?action=image&dir=2006&image=slack31.jpg

Sometimes the best thing to do is just sit for a sec and breath it all in.
http://www.morffed.com/image.php?action=image&dir=2006&image=slack30.jpg

Oh and some rope jugging...
http://www.morffed.com/image.php?action=image&dir=2006&image=people16.jpg

If that doesn't salivate...well I just don't know what will!

[ian408]

just don't tell them about the thousand foot drop and I think we'll be OK :rofl

[schmoo]

No worries, Kelsey and John. If I can make it to Moab fer real, I'm SO IN for the climbing. :bow

[gluwater]

I call the first shot of Andy Highlining with a cig in one hand and O'Douls in the other!

[Prezwoodz]

No worries, Kelsey and John. If I can make it to Moab fer real, I'm SO IN for the climbing. :bow


Great to hear Schmoo! I was just going to reply to the other thread and say I hope to see you there!!

[Prezwoodz]

I call the first shot of Andy Highlining with a cig in one hand and O'Douls in the other!


Thats not entirely an impossiblity. Wouldn't ever count on seeing that beer again on the fall though heh.

(one of Johns pics)
http://www.morffed.com/image.php?action=image&dir=2006&image=slack02.jpg

[coldclimb]

Thats not entirely an impossiblity. Wouldn't ever count on seeing that beer again on the fall though heh.

(one of Johns pics)
http://www.morffed.com/image.php?action=image&dir=2006&image=slack02.jpg

Hehehe... somewhere I actually have a photo of my buddy Larry walking a highline with an open beer in one hand. I do believe it's stuck on a hard drive I had die on me last year though, so I can't access it until I manage to get that recovered.

So yes, that is possible. :D I'm stoked, can't wait for this trip to go down!

[z_28]

Thats not entirely an impossiblity. Wouldn't ever count on seeing that beer again on the fall though heh.

(one of Johns pics)
http://www.morffed.com/image.php?action=image&dir=2006&image=slack02.jpg

Finally great sport for me :thumb
Can I sign in too ?
Now I see right place for me - beer in hand and there is cozy bench,
you need good anchoring weight, wouldn't you ?

[Prezwoodz]

Sure, you can definitely join us!

Hope to see you there! ;)

[schmoo]

I forgot to formally mention... I'm IN!

Now don't laugh at what a clumsy wimp I am. :hide

[Prezwoodz]

Yay! Glad to hear your in schmoo! Don't worry you wont feel like a clumbsy wimp - we'll be happy to share our knowledge!

[Nikolai]

I will give it a try, but I must tell ya - I'm clumzy...

[Andy]

http://dgrin.smugmug.com/photos/14326054-L.gif

[Prezwoodz]

http://dgrin.smugmug.com/photos/14326054-L.gif



hehe I swear its like hes trying to tell me something!

:thumb I added some pictures to my first reply of this post. I'll keep some more coming too!


Nikolai Great to hear you'll be joining us!

[schmoo]

http://dgrin.smugmug.com/photos/14326054-L.gif


Now that I've seen the pics, I think I'm puckering at about f/64..... :huh

(I'm still game, though!)

[wxwax]

Now that I've seen the pics, I think I'm puckering at about f/64..... :huh


:rofl

[wxwax]

Dayum!

http://prezwoodz.smugmug.com/photos/176989397-L-1.jpg

[Prezwoodz]

Now that I've seen the pics, I think I'm puckering at about f/64..... :huh

(I'm still game, though!)


Great! I did put up some pictures which show the scarier side of the area. There are many other things we will be doing which wont be nearly as scary! And we wouldn't ever think of throwing anyone right into those things.

This is about the height we would start at.
http://www.morffed.com/image.php?action=image&dir=2006&image=slack02.jpg

Not to scary there huh!

[wholenewlight]

Kelsey,

I've just spent more than an hour on your smugsite. Amazing. Fantastic photography and your accompanying stories . . . almost spiritual in your relationship to the world around us.

Loved the Eiger, Dolomites, and Malta accounts & shots! :thumb

[Prezwoodz]

Kelsey,

I've just spent more than an hour on your smugsite. Amazing. Fantastic photography and your accompanying stories . . . almost spiritual in your relationship to the world around us.

Loved the Eiger, Dolomites, and Malta accounts & shots! :thumb

Wow thanks a lot I am very happy that my photo's and writings can be brought to everyone. :) Thanks for reading!

Kelsey

[coldclimb]

Hehehe, man I get excited every time I look at pics of highlining. For those who are interested, I have a gallery here of all my good shots from the Moab Slackfest 2006, last November if I recall correctly: http://morffed.com/climb/Moab06

Also some shots from Boulder, CO in there too.

One favorite is this one. Dylan, on the right, has just successfully walked the long "Dog Hole" line at Gemini bridges in both directions, and is the first person in the world to do so during one rigging of the line. Feelings were pretty strong at the moment and I tried to capture that and failed really, but you can get a small glimpse of the incredible emotions of successfully completing a project that you've put so much into. The shorter line in some of these pictures is off in the distance, where you can see the people gathered.
http://morffed.com/climb/Moab06/moab06-035.jpg



Highlining is a small part physical and perhaps more than 100 percent mental, somehow. :thumb You've got to break the barriers your mind places on you in order to take those first steps. Once you manage that, and you walk all the way across a highline, and after the exhilarating dancing and screaming ritual subsides.... you can do anything.

And of course, as Kelsey says, there's plenty of room for people to come simply to shoot pictures. All of the photos I have of highlining were taken with a Fuji F700 point and shoot, and I'm excited to see what people will do with the higher end equipment that we will have this time!

Here's some more eye candy of Dylan working the line, prior to the photo above. He put a TON of energy and heart into completing the walk, and everybody knew it. There was almost an unspoken feeling that the line was HIS this year, and everybody was rooting for him.
http://morffed.com/climb/Moab06/moab06-023.jpg



http://morffed.com/climb/Moab06/moab06-025.jpg



http://morffed.com/climb/Moab06/moab06-029.jpg



Keep in mind that you folks won't be limited in your angles either. With the techniques we'll show you, you'll be able to rappel and shoot from ropes, or the bottoms of the canyons we play in, and then get back out again too! :D

Sometime in the next few days I'll write up a tutorial for those of you who may want to walk the highlines, so you'll be able to get your own equipment and rig a slackline in your backyard, and learn to walk before the event goes down. It's amazing fun, for sure!

[anwmn1]

This sounds very cool and will be looking forward to trying it during the shootout!

[Prezwoodz]

Great post John and sounds great that you'll be adding a tutorial! thats awesome.

This sounds very cool and will be looking forward to trying it during the shootout!

Were glad to have you join us! Hope everyones getting excited as we already are.....and only a year left hehe. Lots of planning and practice room!

[ttorres33]

I'm in. This looks great!

Teresa

[schmoo]

I just signed up for the climbing. This looks great!

Teresa

Woot! It's going to be a great group! :D

[gluwater]

I'm in! I better start getting in shape now.

[Prezwoodz]

Alright the groups growing! Awesome. :) I am super excited!

[gluwater]

I'm pretty excited also. You two have been high up on my favorite dgrin photogs list for a long time. Any advice on how to "train" for something like this?

[Prezwoodz]

I'm pretty excited also. You two have been high up on my favorite dgrin photogs list for a long time. Any advice on how to "train" for something like this?

Thanks for the awesome compliment! Dgrin is my favorite photo site all the people here are so incredible.

Actually yes there is definitely ways to train! I'll try and get a Climbing training tutorial together about things to train for and I think John is working on a slackline tutorial to tell how to cheaply and effectivley set on up in your own yard. Can't walk a highline all the way across if you can't do it low first. ;)

So hopefully we will get those to you soon!

[DoctorIt]

I've added a list at the beginning of the thread (http://www.dgrin.com/showthread.php?t=72747) for all those interested... at the moment, we have 17 dgrinners (+ Kelsey and John) interested in ditching the shooting for some more adventure!

[Prezwoodz]

So, while John and I work on some helpful things that will be beneficial for this friendly gathering I was wondering what everyone would like to get out of it? What is it that you would like to be able to do? What is it that interests you most?

[schmoo]

I'll go first, I guess. :dunno

Being fairly short, I think I've always been fascinated by being in high places. :D Seriously though, in the last year or so I've learned to appreciate the sense of accomplishment of seeing somewhere you don't immediately think you'll be able to reach, but when you solve the puzzle and haul yourself up there, it's such a physical and mental reward!

I can't do that in the natural environment, and would like to know how. I know Utah is a mecca of rockclimbing but 'd never try such a thing without trusted instructors coaching me.

Also, slacklining is new to me but the idea of being able to overcome the mental block of something so emotionally daunting is very high on my list.

[leaforte]

I've always lived in the mountains, and my hiking slowy expanded to steeper, and steeper, until I was climbing scree fields to the base of walls, and free climbing the walls as high as I could. I did free climb the face of Guye Peak @ Snoqualmie Pass one summer, but shouldn't have, and had climbed onto ledges that I would never have been able to go back down. Fortunately, I made it to the top and was able to hike the saddle down, and they didn't have to call King County Airlift. I still free climb soft faces whenever I am hiking. I plan to spend some time on the wall at Western Washington University here in Bellingham, practicing holds, and honing my balance. What I would like get out of this is the opportunity to do a climb using ropes in a place that I've never been. My only equipment I currently have is a chalk bag, and helmet, which I use. A harness, and belt of assorted size nuts, that I don't. By next year I hope to have an elementary grasp of using my harness, D-rings, and some basic knowledge of my ropes, and knots. From there, I am hoping for a super Utah experience. I'm amped about this trip; already X-ing out days on the calander, and making time to train, both in the gym, and with my photo gear! Can hardly wait!

Guye Peak, Snoqualmie Pass, Washington

http://tonymcguiness.smugmug.com/photos/173759584-L.jpg

EDIT: Oh yeah, and make new friends, hear new stories, learn new things, and see new places!

[anwmn1]

As far as the climbing and slacklining goes I like the idea of seeing things I would not be able to see without the assistance of ropes.

Hanging off the side of a cliff to get a unique perspective, repelling into a cavern to see whats there and get shots looking down and up.

When I am hiking/photographing the remote areas of Arizona that I do- I often have to stop because it is unsafe to continue any further without ropes. I hoping I can learn how to safely navigate such areas.

It should be a fun time and a very internal growth experience for many of us!!

[Cuong]

Other than dealing with work and kids, my life's been pretty boring. Given this chance, I just want to try something new and different. This is the first time I heard of slacklining and highlining, and the pictures certainly worth many thousand words. I'm excited about this trip and this would be my motivation to get in shape.:barb

I'm always amazed at how people can crawl up sheer rock walls. I would like to try some easy climbing, slacklining, highlining and come back in one piece.

Cuong

[DoctorIt]

What is it that you would like to be able to do? What is it that interests you most?Never tried a highline before, that'll be neat. Always good to learn how other folks place their anchors, everyone's got different tricks. Although, by then, after more than a year away from the US and my gear, it'll be nice just to climb again!

But most of all, after reading all your posts and seeing all your climbing photos, I just wanna hang out and do some climbing with you and John! :freaky

[schmoo]

But most of all, after reading all your posts and seeing all your climbing photos, I just wanna hang out and do some climbing with you and John! :freaky

Oh yeah, that too! But I thought we were being technical here. :D

[zweiblumen]

So, while John and I work on some helpful things that will be beneficial for this friendly gathering I was wondering what everyone would like to get out of it? What is it that you would like to be able to do? What is it that interests you most?

The older I get, the more afraid of heights I become. I've been working for the past several months to over come it. Usually I can buckle down and just cope with it, go out onto something that I know is "safe" and come back. But sometimes I freak out while I'm up there and have to make a bee-line back to something stable. High buildings and airplanes don't bother me. When I was teenager I did some rock climbing, not much, but a bit and I never had a problem with the height.

With that background, I'm interested in testing myself in a safe environment. Also I want to go to cool places to get unique shots.

Okay, the second reason really is the important part here :P

[Prezwoodz]

I'll go first, I guess. :dunno

Being fairly short, I think I've always been fascinated by being in high places. :D Seriously though, in the last year or so I've learned to appreciate the sense of accomplishment of seeing somewhere you don't immediately think you'll be able to reach, but when you solve the puzzle and haul yourself up there, it's such a physical and mental reward!

I can't do that in the natural environment, and would like to know how. I know Utah is a mecca of rockclimbing but 'd never try such a thing without trusted instructors coaching me.

Also, slacklining is new to me but the idea of being able to overcome the mental block of something so emotionally daunting is very high on my list.


Your first in my book Schmooo :wink

Overcoming that mental block will definitely be something we will work on. If you don't have that opportunity to push that mental block some then we didn't show up in Moab! :thumb

leaforte that looks like a good hike / climb! Ive done that a few times myself and had that "what on earth am I doing here?" feeling. Its a great day when we make it back down alive and realize we should never do that again (although we probably will). Its great we have all levels here of experience and I look forward to meeting you on the trip!

anwmn1 - that is an excellent reason to come and join us for this. Its always more dangerous going alone places but if you are going to go alone its great to know how to get yourself in and out of places! Dropping into a canyon and knowing you can get yourself back out is a wonderful thing.

yukio - I am excited to have you in the group! Some of my favorite people to get out and enjoy the outdoors with are those who don't feel they get out often or feel their life is boring! Its always a different level of excitement to enjoy. :)

DoctorIt - We will get some climbing in...oh yes...we will!

zweiblumen - When you walk out on a highline you'll think the heights of climbing are suddenly not so high! Like John says "Once youve walked a highline you can do anything." Glad to have you in the group!!

[Prezwoodz]

Next question!

Who wants to purchase their gear and who wants to rent? I can get gear at super prices so if you think you'll want to keep your gear nows the time!

[gluwater]

Next question!

Who wants to purchase their gear and who wants to rent? I can get gear at super prices so if you think you'll want to keep your gear nows the time!
What kind of cost are we talking about and how much gear? For those flying it could be difficult to bring gear back with them.

Did you two find anywhere to climb when you were in Chicago?

[Prezwoodz]

What kind of cost are we talking about and how much gear? For those flying it could be difficult to bring gear back with them.

Did you two find anywhere to climb when you were in Chicago?

We climbed in Kentucky and John climbed at Devils Lake in Wisconson. I did some climbing in Iowa as well it was about a 3 hour drive I think. Let me know if you want anymore info :) I didn't find anywhere in the direct vicinity of Chicago other then the Evanston Climbing Gym.


As for as costs go i have been assessing what the extra cost for this friendly endevour would be and its actually turned out really well. I am going to assess it a bit more before I announce the costs (suppose I should have thought of that first!) but it won't be much and the gear you would get to bring home would be a Gri-Gri (belay Device), Helmet, Harness, and perhaps a portion of Static rope for your own home use and practice. In all this would probably fit into a nice backpack.

[DoctorIt]

...In all this would probably fit into a nice backpack.I'm betting most folks camera bags will dwarf the small pile of climbing gear you'll need at the shootout.

[anwmn1]

I'm betting most folks camera bags will dwarf the small pile of climbing gear you'll need at the shootout.

:rofl So True!!


Now if that gear will fit in my Dryzone 200 backpack with my camera gear than we are talking!! :wink

[coldclimb]

Alright, time for a QUICK word on setting up a slackline, so everyone who is interested in perhaps walking the highline can have PLENTY of time to get started. Like Kelsey says, if you can't walk a slackline on the ground, you're gonna have a bit of trouble when you take it up in the air. :D I've seen it tried though, and they did have tons of fun, so if that's enough for you, you won't be disappointed!

I'll keep this very basic for everyone interested, so if you try all this and decide to get more into it, the door will be open, but if you don't figure on going anywhere with slacklining, you won't be out a lot of money and have a bunch of useless gear. :thumb


For starters, the gear: For a basic setup, you'll need a length of 1" tubular nylon webbing somewhere around 100 feet long. This length will allow you to cut some off for anchor slings (I like about ten feet for my slings), and use the tail of the line itself as a tensioning system for short to medium length lines. Webbing is typically around 35 cents a foot these days and can be purchased at a lot of outdoor equipment stores. I personally like REI, cause it's a sure thing you'll find it there, but feel free to shop around and support your local guys too! You can also find it online at places like Gear Express (http://www.gearexpress.biz/Merchant2/merchant.mv?Screen=CTGY&Store_Code=G&Category_Code=WE) (good people), REI online (http://www.rei.com/product/737298), and oddly enough even Amazon.com (http://www.amazon.com/1-TUBULAR-WEBBING-FT-ASSORTED/dp/B000NYK562)

Along with the webbing, you'll want to have at least three carabiners, which you should be able to find at most places that sell the webbing. Plain old symetrical oval biners (http://www.rei.com/product/471041) are best due to their symetry, and also conveniently the cheapest. :D This is just enough gear for the most basic setup of a slackline. More carabiners are optional. I recommend four, and you may find you prefer to use as many as five or six, depending on how you like to rig your line.


For anchor slings, I like to use two ten foot sections of webbing. This will fit around most trees fairly well, although it'll be a bit short for bigger trunks. You can get that by canibalizing your length of slackline, or you can just buy extra when you purchase the webbing. To get a decent anchor, just take your webbing and tie a loop in each end with a bowline (http://www.boatsafe.com/nauticalknowhow/bowline.gif) or an overhand (http://content.basspro.com/knotlibrary/images/illustrations/knot6a.gif). Click the links if you need knot lessons. :thumb Now you can wrap that around anything solid, and tie or clip your line to it.


To start rigging your line, first find two trees. As you get more into slacklining, you'll discover a wide variety of ways to rig and anchor your line, but for starters, trees are a no-brainer. Pick good thick ones, cause you'll be putting a good amount of force on them, and if you're of an environmental mindset or slacking in a public park, make yourself some "tree friendlies" to pad the trees and prevent damage to the bark. Tree friendlies can be as simple as a piece of cardboard or section of carpet, it just prevents the rubbing of the line from leaving permanent marks on the bark.

Anchor one end of your line to one tree. Just wrap your anchor sling around it, and either clip or tie your line to both loops. If you have tree friendlies, slip one between the webbing and the tree. If you only have three carabiners, don't use one here, you'll need them later. If you tie the line to the anchor sling, use a bowline (http://www.boatsafe.com/nauticalknowhow/bowline.gif) to make it slightly easier to untie. Height will vary depending on your preference, the length of the line, and how tight you can get it, so start with waist-high and go from there.


At your other anchor, rig the anchor the same but don't attach the line just yet. Now comes the tricky part of rigging. You have to STRETCH a slackline a good amount in order to get it tight enough to walk, so you need to rig a mechanical advantage to pull hard enough. So either measure, pace, or eyeball your line, and subtract about 1/5th of the entire length from the end that's not anchored, and grab the webbing right there. It's not SUPER important to get the distance exact, but it may take you a time or two to get good at judging how much slack to take up.

At the point you just grabbed, attach two of your carabiners with a Clove Hitch (http://swissmountainguide.com/images/clove_hitch_1_.gif). One carabiner will not be used, it's really only there to make the hitch undoable when taking the line down, but it IS important to not use just one biner in a clove hitch on a line. I've spent hours at a time trying to unlock clove hitches in the past. :rofl

Situate one carabiner to pull toward the anchor, and the other to just be out of the way, perhaps sideways so the spine (not the gate) is in the hitch. Then tighten your clove down.

Now clip your anchor sling with a carabiner, and clip your tail end of webbing through that, leaving the other two biners on the line. Then bring the tail back, and run it through the carabiner in the clove hitch. Then run the tail back to the anchor and pass it through again, arranging everything so the webbing lays flat with no twists, and each subsequent wrap lays UNDER the wrap before it, in a sort of spiral. Wrap your webbing through each biner three times, until you have three layers on each biner and your tail end comes from the bottom layer on the biner in the clove hitch. When rigged correctly, this system will allow you to get all your friends over to yard away on the tail and tension the line, and when you let go, it will automatically lock off and hold the tension with no knots or slipping! :thumb This is called the "Ellington" system, after its inventor Jeff Ellington, one of the pioneers of slackline, for those interested in trivia.

It may take some mental work to get it, and some time to make it work in action, so to help you out, here's a picture of a tensioned Ellington:
http://www.rockclimbing.com/images/photos/assets/6/163596-largest_37994.jpg


If ALL of this is done, you should have a slackline. It may not be perfect the first time, but be patient, and you'll soon work all the kinks out of your system and be able to rig one in minutes and be walking.

To de-rig, take your tail end and pull hard AWAY from the tree, and it should slip out from under the wraps above it and lose friction. You may have to do this a couple times, once for each wrap, but it'll come undone with little trouble. Then coil up your line, grab your slings, and go rig another day, somewhere else.


So that's rigging. As for WALKING a slackline, my only tips are that ANYONE can do it, and all it takes is practice and patience. And NO excuses! I've seen a 300 pound man walk highlines, I've seen a girl with her ankle in a cast WIN a slacklining competition, and I've seen couch potatos with no finesse and a low level of fitness doing frontflip dismounts from the line! My best advice is to rig a line and LEAVE it rigged in your yard somewhere, and that way whenever you have a dull moment you can step outside and work a few minutes, and just keep getting better.

If you can walk across a lowline, you can walk across a highline. The challenge at that point will be breaking the limits in your mind! I hope to see some of you make it all the way across, so get practicing now! :D


For more slacklining resources, you can shoot me a PM if you'd like, or check out these sites, all of which are run by friends of mine whom I have slacked and highlined with. They're all great people who are more than happy to help spread information about slacklining.
http://www.slackline.com - Slackline gear and forums where slackers hang out, pretty much everything you'll ever need if you get more into slacklining.
http://www.slackline.net/store.html - Scott Balcom's site for his personally engineered and built slackline gear. His home page seems to be down, not sure why that is...
http://www.slacklineexpress.com - Another good source for slackline tools. Joe is quite a friendly guy, always willing to help you get slacking.

[leaforte]

Thanks for the rig info and links about the slacklining. Any chance of getting a shopping list for gear to bring in October, for those of us that want to pick up pieces a little at a time over the next year. I get most of my outdoor gear /clothing at REI here in Bellingham, and wouldn't mind having a shopping list so I can watch for their sales, and build on that annual REI dividend check!

[Prezwoodz]

Heres a list of things you could bring yourself. Although I am working on getting this stuff at a reallllly good price so unless you see these items for around the price I'll list then I would hold off.

Climbing Shoes - If you want to buy something start with these. Anything that fits comfortable like a sock. I won't be able to get any deals on these so look for the sales on them.

Climbing Harness - $40

Climbing Helmet (bike helmets or others do not work as subsitutes) - $35

Gri-Gri belay device - I would just hold off on this.

Caribiners - Large locking caribiner, atleast 1 or two.

[Cuong]

Wow, lots of clear and easy to understand info. John, for those of us whose backyards are tree-challenged, what do you suggest for anchor points? In my case, I have 6-ft high cinder block walls on both sides of the house. I can go to a public park to rig up a line and practice, but like you said, it's better to have one set up in my yard so I can practice more frequently.

[Prezwoodz]

Wow, lots of clear and easy to understand info. John, for those of us whose backyards are tree-challenged, what do you suggest for anchor points? In my case, I have 6-ft high cinder block walls on both sides of the house. I can go to a public park to rig up a line and practice, but like you said, it's better to have one set up in my yard so I can practice more frequently.

If you can take pictures of your yard and post them in here. We'll try and come up with something. :wink

[Cuong]

If you can take pictures of your yard and post them in here. We'll try and come up with something. :wink

On the north side of my back yard there's a pear tree with 6-in diameter trunk. It's a potential anchor point. However, on the opposite wall on the south side there's no tree for anchor point. Also, using the pear tree would expose the webbing to water from the sprinklers. It might be better if I use some 2x4's and build the anchor points utilizing the side walls and the patio columns (see #6 and #7). That would give me 40 feet of slackline to practice with the protection of the patio cover. What do you think?

Cuong

#1
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2116/1563607437_ecd5717ddd_o.jpg
#2
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2193/1564486890_157a3a1c94_o.jpg
#3
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2269/1564487900_7fe06c1a03_o.jpg
#4
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2333/1563605193_d991ed99da_o.jpg
#5
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2002/1563606429_e5b53b7184_o.jpg
#6
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2192/1563604177_2c8136d620_o.jpg
#7
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2269/1563604689_cc503616fd_o.jpg

[gluwater]

So I've been thinking. What does it feel like the first time you fall from a highline? I was checking your site Kelsey and found this photo with a great description (http://prezwoodz.smugmug.com/gallery/3370082#188127400). How long were you slacklining before you felt comfortable enough to highline?

[coldclimb]

On the north side of my back yard there's a pear tree with 6-in diameter trunk. It's a potential anchor point. However, on the opposite wall on the south side there's no tree for anchor point. Also, using the pear tree would expose the webbing to water from the sprinklers. It might be better if I use some 2x4's and build the anchor points utilizing the side walls and the patio columns (see #6 and #7). That would give me 40 feet of slackline to practice with the protection of the patio cover. What do you think?

Hmm, that's a beautiful yard, but it could be tough. What you can do is build a set of A-frames to elevate the line, and anchor the ends directly into the ground, but this gets pretty complicated. The advantage is you can do it with very little effect on to the environment, but you might need a willing hand to help engineer, build, and rig it all. :D

You could anchor off the base of your patio pilings, it looks like, and run the line up over an A-frame and across the yard to another A-frame and an anchor at the base of the metal fence, depending on how solid those anchors are. Anchoring down low and using an A-frame in that setup would help reduce the leverage, and therefore the load, on the vertical posts. Your patio certainly looks strong enough, my only doubts arise with the fence. If it's made solid, it should be good, but if it's an ornamental fence, I'd be leery. :thumb

As to your 2x4 bracing idea, it would work, but a 2x4 won't be strong enough. A 4x4 probably would, but I'd want to anchor one side close to the patio post and the other side close to the house wall just to optimize leverage. This method will also take more resources, and would probably be quite unkind to the walls of your house, especially with windows so close to the corner you'd be bracing against. I wouldn't do that, myself.

As for A-frames, there's a lot of variety in the ones I've seen. The basic idea is a triangle that will take a serious downward load. My preference for portability reasons is two four-foot 2x4s with 45 degree angles on one end, and a 1-inch hole in the other end. I place a 1-inch wooden dowel rod through that hole and I have a frame, and then I wrap my anchor webbing in a manner that pulls the boards together instead of torquing them, and I have a loop on one side to clip the line to while the other side goes down and anchors into the ground. Advantages are ease of transport primarily, and it gets the job done. One design modification I'd do if I had the drive for it is to tie a keeper across the bottom near the low ends to prevent them from spreading farther under weight, cause in really soft ground they won't stay up.

One friend of mine has a 2x4 triangle frame covered on both sides with plywood. The top of the triangle is squared off and has a bar built in to wrap the webbing around and hold it tight. It's more of a heavy duty setup than mine. Feel free to get creative!

As for anchoring into the ground, my preference simply beacuse I'm cheap is four thick rebar stakes, bent into a J and pounded in behind the anchor, and then webbing equalizing all four stakes and extending up over the A-frame to the line. More or less rebar may be required depending on your ground, or you can use bigger and better stakes as well. I drive my stakes in at an angle close to perpendicular to the direction of pull. Sorry I don't have pics of this, but ask away for clarification! :D


Here's some shots of a slackline me and Kelsey set up on the frozen surface of Westchester Lagoon, in Anchorage. These shots are Kelsey's.

http://www.flashbubble.com/Prezwoodz/dgrin/lakeline1.jpg

http://www.flashbubble.com/Prezwoodz/dgrin/lakeline5.jpg

[coldclimb]

So I've been thinking. What does it feel like the first time you fall from a highline? I was checking your site Kelsey and found this photo with a great description (http://prezwoodz.smugmug.com/gallery/3370082#188127400). How long were you slacklining before you felt comfortable enough to highline?

I've still never taken a leash fall myself, so I don't know firsthand what that's like, but I can tell you that walking a highline is still mind-blowing to me, and when I fall and catch the line, it's really kind of a sense of "well that wasn't so bad... why am I so terrified of it?" It actually helps a lot to MAKE yourself take two steps out and fall, just to ease your mind a little bit. If you spend a day or two working a line though, and taking a lot of falls, you definitely start to feel the work involved. :D I usually get the backs of my knees rubbed pretty raw from using them in catching.

As far as comfort, I'm not sure if I even am comfortable... lol. My first time, I got a chance to join some highliners in Smith Rock after a year and change of slacklining, and took it. It's still a crazy mind-job to step out over open air, but it does get easier with experience for sure!

[ian408]

When I first learned to climb, we did harnessed falls (chest too). It's an
experience the first time through but once you build confidence in the
gear to do it's job, it's really no big deal.

As for what it feels like to fall, well. You fall and then you stop. Abruptly :D

[Prezwoodz]

So I've been thinking. What does it feel like the first time you fall from a highline? I was checking your site Kelsey and found this photo with a great description (http://prezwoodz.smugmug.com/gallery/3370082#188127400). How long were you slacklining before you felt comfortable enough to highline?

Honestly, I'm still not comfortable I have yet to actually walk a highline all the way across although I fully plan to months before we all meet! ;) Its tuff just stepping onto it. Walking onto a highline is much harder then pulling that next hold on the wall. Fallings the easy part.

[coldclimb]

Honestly, I'm still not comfortable I have yet to actually walk a highline all the way across although I fully plan to months before we all meet! ;) Its tuff just stepping onto it. Walking onto a highline is much harder then pulling that next hold on the wall. Fallings the easy part.

I have a friend who worked something like eight years before he finally walked his first highline, although certainly not for lack of trying! I've also seen people walk them first try. I'm somewhere in between. :D

[gluwater]

I have a friend who worked something like eight years before he finally walked his first highline, although certainly not for lack of trying! I've also seen people walk them first try. I'm somewhere in between. :D Well that's encouraging :uhoh

[Cuong]

http://www.flashbubble.com/Prezwoodz/dgrin/lakeline5.jpg

John, I think the A frames and ground stakes suggestion would be perfect for my set up.:thumb I'll keep you posted on the progress. Thanks.

Cuong

[schmoo]

As for what it feels like to fall, well. You fall and then you stop. Abruptly :D
From the harness or from hitting the ground? :D

[ian408]

From the harness or from hitting the ground? :D

Hmmm. Can't say I've ever hit the ground but for males...well, you get the
idea :rolleyes

[Prezwoodz]

Hmmm. Can't say I've ever hit the ground but for males...well, you get the
idea :rolleyes

Ive been dropped to the ground twice and fell onto my back once from 20 some odd feet when my Petzl Stop and Shunt didn't work because acid had made them all slickery. Sometimes it hurts...sometimes it just makes your back feel better!
My freind dropped me because we didn't know a few important things and were newbies!

About the A frames make sure that when you set them up you wrap around the peg in the middle correctly or else it will bust the peg. I have a picture of that I'll look for later!

[coldclimb]

About the A frames make sure that when you set them up you wrap around the peg in the middle correctly or else it will bust the peg. I have a picture of that I'll look for later!

Yeah we busted a peg that day by wrapping wrong. The pics above are wrapped correctly though, and in fact you can see the busted peg still working fine in the second one. :rofl

[ian408]

My freind dropped me because we didn't know a few important things and were newbies!

my first 'accident' of sorts was on a rap. my mistake--before the days of
locking 'biners. fortunately, a short drop and no fall :eek1

[Prezwoodz]

Theres something I forgot to mention that just came to my mind.

What type of camera bag / carrying case will everyone be bringing?

[Cuong]

Theres something I forgot to mention that just came to my mind.

What type of camera bag / carrying case will everyone be bringing?

I'll take my Lowepro SlingShot 300 for the 30D and a compact bag for the Canon G6.

Cuong

[gluwater]

Crumpler Karatchi outpost. It's big, I could get another bag for the trip. I've been meaning to get a smaller bag. What works the best with climbing?

[anwmn1]

I have a Lowepro Dryzone 200 but will have a day pack as well (large fanny pack w/shoulder strap) which I can use if big packs are an issue.

[anwmn1]

Sticking with the gear talk-

You gave a list of gear for slacklining- is this gear good for climbing too or is there a different seperate list for that?

I know shoes- helmet- and carribeeners are universal but what about ropes and other things?

[DoctorIt]

I know shoes- helmet- and carribeeners are universal but what about ropes and other things?Unless you plan on doing more climbing on your own, anything beyond the gear you mentioned will cost a lot, and get used very little. Climbing is always done with a partner... if you are a beginner, you really won't need much beyond your personal gear (which you already listed).

A good rule of thumb: if you don't know what a piece of gear does/haven't been taught how to use it, don't buy it (yet).

[leaforte]

I think gear may be the peak of the learning curve. IMHO. I am a free climber, and I have been scampering over, and up, natures obstacles since I was a kid. I will still climb anything that doesn't move (no comments, please!). Alas, I still need to learn the gear, and am not embarrassed to say, 'teach me'! I also don't want to spend more than necessary, so I will bring the basics: helmet, harness, and shoes, and buy the rest on the backside of the learning curve; once I learn the technicals of the gear.

[leaforte]

On Topic: I use a TAMRAC Adventure 7. I've found that for a full on hike it lacks a bit o' space; and to store a body, and long lens (my longest is a 70-300m, 6-8") it is kind of hard to get it all in the bottom pouch, especially with say two more lenses, filters, and, well, you know, the little things you want in the field. But for short trips, into the green, it feels good, weight-wise on your back, just know for sure what you want to bring. This particular carrier has add straps to carry a tripod at the base of the pack, but it may rattle a bit on a long hike. It is a roomy day pack...great for an afternoon scramble/shoot..just add lunch! Haven't had it on my back for a climb (yet), but figure, stay light, and only take what you know you will use. Can't wait for 2008 gear reviews!

[ttorres33]

As far as what I'm looking to get out of this ...

My first reaction to the highlining photo was literally, "wow, that would scare the sh*t out of me."

And my second thought was, "I'll never forgive myself if I don't sign up."

So I'm just looking to force myself outside of my comfort zone.

I've done very small amounts of rock-climbing. I took a class on an indoor wall and went on an outdoor climb with a friend who had been climbing for years. But that was all years ago.

As for gear, I'll probably rent unless I get hooked on climbing between now and then.

Teresa

[Skippy]

Now that I've seen the pics, I think I'm puckering at about f/64..... :huh

(I'm still game, though!)


Ahahahaha :rofl Schmooo everyone is fair game at these things girl,
and the instant you show the slightest hint of being clumbsy some buggar will capture it on film for sure, and post it on the forum :rolleyes

.... Skippy :D
.

[Prezwoodz]

As far as what I'm looking to get out of this ...

My first reaction to the highlining photo was literally, "wow, that would scare the sh*t out of me."

And my second thought was, "I'll never forgive myself if I don't sign up."

So I'm just looking to force myself outside of my comfort zone.

I've done very small amounts of rock-climbing. I took a class on an indoor wall and went on an outdoor climb with a friend who had been climbing for years. But that was all years ago.

As for gear, I'll probably rent unless I get hooked on climbing between now and then.

Teresa

Sounds great. I am glad you joined up despite thinknig it was crazy! Were excited about it for sure.

[coldclimb]

Ahahahaha :rofl Schmooo everyone is fair game at these things girl,
and the instant you show the slightest hint of being clumbsy some buggar will capture it on film for sure, and post it on the forum :rolleyes

.... Skippy :D
.

Oooh Kelsey is gonna kill me, but I have to since you posted that.... :D :rofl

Kelsey on our recent rope jumping excursion:
http://morffed.com/climb/temp/bridge24.jpg

[gluwater]

Oooh Kelsey is gonna kill me, but I have to since you posted that.... :D :rofl

Kelsey on our recent rope jumping excursion:
http://morffed.com/climb/temp/bridge24.jpg
Now that's a great shot! :rofl

[schmoo]

Oooh Kelsey is gonna kill me, but I have to since you posted that.... :D :rofl

Kelsey on our recent rope jumping excursion:


:lol

Yeah Skippy, that's what I'm afraid of. In a way being around a bunch of great photographers is good therapy because you kind of just have to give up and trust each other at some point. ;)

[Prezwoodz]

Oh man John you are such a turd!! Always getting the worst pictures of me heh.

[schmoo]

What type of camera bag / carrying case will everyone be bringing?

I haven't answered this yet because I'm a little confuzzled. Are we going to be lugging our gear up there? I had assumed that this was a separate activity and that I'd maybe have my P&S in a pocket, nothing more than that. But correct me if I'm wrong!

A backpack would totally throw off my (already very poor) balance.... :rolleyes

[coldclimb]

I haven't answered this yet because I'm a little confuzzled. Are we going to be lugging our gear up there? I had assumed that this was a separate activity and that I'd maybe have my P&S in a pocket, nothing more than that. But correct me if I'm wrong!

A backpack would totally throw off my (already very poor) balance.... :rolleyes

Well you'll at LEAST need your camera with you! :D The main concentration will be on how to handle ropes and rigging in such a way that you can get YOU and your CAMERA into a better position for that sweet shot. Of course in order to do this we need to climb, and a prime usage of high angle roped photography is shooting climbers, so it all fits together nicely!

Your camera bag should of course be capable of lugging your equipment up to the rocks. From there, it's likely to be a matter of lighter and more mobile carrying methods to get the camera up the rock. I choose the "hang it around my neck" method typically, but to each his own. :D I have a small Lowepro backpack that also works well, although when I get into position I have to sling it around to the front and open it to get the camera out, which dramatically improves the risks of dropping things. Nobody wants to drop things, so our great minds will be put to work to prevent that.

Kelsey, what did you have in mind when you asked?

[Prezwoodz]

Well you'll at LEAST need your camera with you! :D The main concentration will be on how to handle ropes and rigging in such a way that you can get YOU and your CAMERA into a better position for that sweet shot. Of course in order to do this we need to climb, and a prime usage of high angle roped photography is shooting climbers, so it all fits together nicely!

Your camera bag should of course be capable of lugging your equipment up to the rocks. From there, it's likely to be a matter of lighter and more mobile carrying methods to get the camera up the rock. I choose the "hang it around my neck" method typically, but to each his own. :D I have a small Lowepro backpack that also works well, although when I get into position I have to sling it around to the front and open it to get the camera out, which dramatically improves the risks of dropping things. Nobody wants to drop things, so our great minds will be put to work to prevent that.

Kelsey, what did you have in mind when you asked?

Yup the main idea for us was getting you AND your camera up safely to take pictures. There will be times when we will rig others up just to take pictures from above and let you get some practice with that. Its a really fun thing and will mix most everything you will learn!

As for how to carry it thats a tuff one. I have found that my favorite choice by far is the really odd yet easy to use fanny pack. I usually just slide it around to the front and theres my camera. It is easy to slide around as well if it gets in your way while climbing. If its to big it will be combersome. I would think about a fanny pack big enough for just the camera and possibly one extra lens. With the backpack johns got it down pretty well and it is a good option as well. HOwever you don't want it huge! I would consider what john has the biggest you will want. Which one is it again john? Which would accomodate a few lenses and an extra battery along with the camera. Still, its good to remember the more you have the more you can lose! I like having just the camera with my pre selected lens attached.

You can bring your huge pack and selection to the base of the climb and select from there as well. If you don't have anything at all that will work for this we may be able to accomodate for this by swapping bags for the climb.

;)

Heres a list of important things to have:

Camera Strap on the camera! - Very important I believe. Its easy to fumble while hanging on ropes. First thing I like to do is put the strap around my neck then take out the camera.

A backpack or waistpack. - Not to big. Smaller is often better. You won't want to bring that 400mm and 300mm and 200mm and 50mm and and and.... ;)

A top strap on the backpack or waistpack - Most backpacks have this top strap. Its the little U strap on the very top of the pack. Make sure its strong. Often you will hang your pack from a hook or something simliar and its best to have something strong to hang it by!

A pen cleaning brush - These work great and are very small. Its really easy to get dirt and other things on your lens in these situations. You'll want something easy to carry and small to bring up the rock with you.



As far as what we will be doing the smugmug shootout is a photography shootout and our friendly gathering wont be much different, were just going to add another element. ;) I'll sit down soon and hopefully we can get some of the final details hammered out and so everyone will know what to expect. !

[schmoo]

Thanks for the clarification, Kelsey and John! When I climb things for photos I generally hang the camera around my neck by the strap and pray that the hood will protect the lens from banging too hard against whatever's around me. But I think for this a smaller backpack or even a cheesy-looking waist attachment would be worth it. When I go shooting I use a Whickey and Cox (http://www.macnn.com/reviews/crumpler-bags-whickey-and-cox-backpack.html) which is half my size - way too big for climbing.

Although if I make it to the top of whatever wall you set us, at that point I am sure that the photos Dgrinners are taking from below will be much more valuable to me. :D

[jdryan3]

I have found that my favorite choice by far is the really odd yet easy to use fanny pack. I usually just slide it around to the front and theres my camera. It is easy to slide around as well if it gets in your way while climbing. If its to big it will be combersome. I would think about a fanny pack big enough for just the camera and possibly one extra lens

Glad to hear this. It seems like one more reason to pony up for a Think Tank belt system, with chimp cage, or maybe the Change Up (http://www.thinktankphoto.com/ttp_product_ChngUp.php).

[Prezwoodz]

Thanks for the clarification, Kelsey and John! When I climb things for photos I generally hang the camera around my neck by the strap and pray that the hood will protect the lens from banging too hard against whatever's around me. But I think for this a smaller backpack or even a cheesy-looking waist attachment would be worth it. When I go shooting I use a Whickey and Cox (http://www.macnn.com/reviews/crumpler-bags-whickey-and-cox-backpack.html) which is half my size - way too big for climbing.

Although if I make it to the top of whatever wall you set us, at that point I am sure that the photos Dgrinners are taking from below will be much more valuable to me. :D

Taking a picture of climbing from below is often difficult and results in what we like to call the "butt shot" heh. Its very common from the ground. One thing we hope to work on is turning pictures into showing the action of climbing and get the real feel of height, energy, and exposure. Exposure in climbing sense is more of the height combined with your own personal comfort level. Here is a picture someone has taken from the ground. (Random picture from someone I don't know (http://www.wiraconsultant.com/wp-content/gallery/climbing/climbing.jpg))

Its not to bad but shows little as to how he's feeling about his next hold. What is coming next? Whats below him? All unknown! So we add a new element into it and get above him! (Johns Picture)

http://www.morffed.com/image.php?action=image&dir=2006&image=climb31.jpg

Now we can see the face, whats next, whats below and it begins to look a little more intense! When we get to the point where john has taken this photo he's hanging from a rope above me.

Heres another example. Christopher is climbing here and from below this route doesn't look to intimdating. But from above it begins to look a bit more daunting. Also as a belayer I have to make sure if he falls he dosent fall all the way to the ground too! Its an interesting system to work and its one of the things I think we would like to do in this gathering as well.
http://prezwoodz.smugmug.com/photos/177168932-L.jpg

This is the system I had setup on this very solid anchor so I could belay and shoot, now christopher is hanging from it.

http://prezwoodz.smugmug.com/photos/177165410-L.jpg

As far as having the camera around the neck the problem comes from the climbing! Its really tuff to climb and not have it banging against the rock constantly. You need both your hands and sometimes you just cant toss it back around! Ive had this problem before heh and Ive got some nice scratches on my past cameras because of it. Having it on a pack will do wonders. If you don't want to buy an extra one I wouldn't worry about it much we could always have you climb up and strap in and then we would tie your big ol pack to the end of the rope and you could haul it up! :thumb

[Angelo]

you might find this interesting...

http://current.com/items/76415702_never_let_go

[Angelo]

as well as this:

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/03/14/sports/othersports/14climber.html?_r=1&hp&oref=slogin

[Prezwoodz]

We have some more openings if anyone would like to join in. There is going to be a small gear fee and if you got it then your in! Let us know!

[Cuong]

John and Kelsey,

The time is fast approaching. The original thread (http://www.dgrin.com/showthread.php?t=72702) has come alive with recent posts. It seems to me the climbing/slacklining participation has waned a bit from the initial announcement. Have you guys figured out how the climbing schedule will fit into the general schedule? You might want to discuss the scheduling and group organizing details with Andy so we're all on the same page and have a better idea of what will happen when. Thanks.

Cuong

[aktse]

Have you guys figured out how the climbing schedule will fit into the general schedule?
Cuong,

There is no general schedule... People go out when they want to go out and follow the pros when they head out. The shootout is very "loose"

[Cuong]

Cuong,

There is no general schedule... People go out when they want to go out and follow the pros when they head out. The shootout is very "loose" Looks like there will be group activities for sunrise, sunset, and night shooting (http://www.dgrin.com/showpost.php?p=918019&postcount=278). I figure climbing/slacklining will take place during the day, between sunrise and sunset. It'd be nice to have a general idea and approximate time of all the activities throughout the day so people know what to expect and participate accordingly.

Cuong

[DavidTO]

Cuong,

There is no general schedule... People go out when they want to go out and follow the pros when they head out. The shootout is very "loose"


While this has been true, it will be less true this year, as we do plan on providing more structure. And there is, of course, the matter of chasing the light, and the thinking that mid-day while the light is poor maybe a good time for this kind of activity.

The other thing that I want to be really clear on, is that this is NOT a part of the shootout. It's an ancillary thing that some of you are interested in doing, but it's not something that Digitlal Grin is taking care of or is responsible for. :deal

[Prezwoodz]

We have ropes and everything covered. If you have it though don't be afraid to bring it! ;)

[catspaw]

Both climbing as well as slack lining photos are up at http://catspaw.smugmug.com/gallery/6213618_P6m3E

I didn't get any of the awesome ones from the arch bridge jumping, but there's a smattering of a number of folks. If you don't want yours up, let me know and I'll hide it. I know those 'from below' shots are a bit unflattering.

Vice versa, if anyone has any of me climbing? Please share away! or PM me :barb

A few photos will be over in the sport forum, cause this IS a serious sport. Adventures or not.

ps. opps that'd be the thread over at:
http://www.dgrin.com/showthread.php?p=941726#post941726