Day 974: Rock climbing!

Such an exhilarating day!  Our first rock climbing experience was thrilling! We traveled to the Scioto Park where there is a 35 foot tall climbing wall.  Brad hooked up the rope line to use to belay the climbers and then taught us the basics.  Sarah demonstrated and then coached from the sidelines.  Unfortunately, Steve's knees would not cooperate so he did not get very high.  The titanium knees do not provide much flexibility.  Nancy did not try it this time, but maybe in the future.

My brother Steve was amazing on his first try.  He quickly learned and was able to scramble to the top quickly. Jason and Laurie have climbed this wall many times, so they also zoomed to the top.

From the ground, the holds looked fairly close together, but one in the wall, I struggled to reach each one.  My first ascent took eight and a half minutes.  The peanut gallery kept shouting advice and directions.  "Put your right hand where your left hand is.  There's a little ledge to your left. Push up with your right foot.  Take a breather.  You're almost there!  Way to go!"

My second ascent was on a different rock face and  took only three and a half minutes!  My brother and I agreed that we have to find a facility in Buffalo!  Steve learned how to belay us

When we arrived at this free, public facility,  we were alone, then gradually young families arrived.  Dads and moms coached their kids in free climbs and when using the automatic belayer that had a break mechanism inside.  They displayed remarkable agility and strength!

Laurie made our traditional roast beef, Yorkshie Pudding and gravy dinner when we returned to her home .  It was the perfect ending to a wonderful weekend!