Outdoor pursuits training diary, Dartmoor, Devon, UK and Spain

Weekly Diary <2008 - 2009>
Online diary recording the trainees' progress through the course.

Week 1
Week 2
Week 3
Week 4
Week 5
Week 6
Week 7
Week 8
Week 9
Week 10
Week 11
Week 12
Week 13
Week 14
Week 15

Week 2 - Week 2 Leading on bolts Week 2 saw a continuation of great climbing in fantatic weather. The group were now confident enough in their ability to start lead climbing on bolts. Using bolts is a great way to introduce lead climbing in a safe environment. Cimbing above the bolt and jumping off although very challenging gave the group confidence in the equipment and this in turn enabled them to concentrate on climbing well. With loads of different venues to choose from all with great climbs the group had plenty to go at for the remainder of the week. To celebrate a great couple of weeks a fantastic evening was had in a Tapas Bar in Finnestrat.

Stopping, holding on with one hand clipping the bolt and then the rope takes climbing from top roping to another level. Its a great grounding for traditional climbing.		The belayer has to be more focused when belaying a lead climber. Anticipating when the leader requires more rope to clip the bolt and anticipating when the climber may be coming off... the forces generated in a lead fall are greater than those of a top rope.

		Enjoying the great weather... 27 degrees!!

It became so hot on this particular day it was decided, without too much debate, to pack up early and go to the beach for a swim....	Take a close look at this picture and you will see a body falling.. This was the bridge jump. Our host in Spain Richard Mayfield of the Orange House took the group out for a few hours of pure adrenalin...Amazing!!	The person tying in the group before they jumped had to absorb the aprehension and fear of all the jumpers not to mention making sure the knots were good!!... This aprehension ranged from total silence to screams to tears...Not an easy task. Well done Kate Dartmoor Outdoor Company's Director