Learning to Rock Climb

We asked Brian, our Learn to Rock Climb prize winner, to write something about the weekend he spent with us in the Gap of Dunloe. Here's what he had to say...

Arriving in Killarney town centre a little after nine to grab a packed lunch and a cup of tea from Cafe Lir, I got a lift with Nathan out to Kate Kearney's Cottage where the group was meeting. Warm handshakes and introductions were exchanged between the eight climbers (and Nathan), and everyone commented on the bit of sun that was trying to peek through the clouds. Then it was down into the Gap of Dunloe, pulling off the road at a rock-face for the day's climbing. Everything was already set up for us, so we just had to get our harnesses on, and receive a few basic tips from Nathan, and then we were away climbing!

We took turns at climbing, belaying (holding the rope at ground level to support the climber), backing-up the belayer, and flaking the rope. From the off, everyone was involved, each with a role, and learning how to do each part. Nathan was on hand at all times, dishing out helpful advice, and showing us the ropes (so to speak!). Everybody encouraged each other on the climbs, trying to spot new foot and handholds from the ground.

After clambering up Cronin's Crack one last time, he taught us how to pack the equipment so that it would be tangle-free in the morning.

Back to my B&B in Robeen House for a nap, and then a night out in Killarney!

The next day we were a little further away from the road, and higher up, giving us spectacular views of the Gap and the lakes. The emphasis today was on technique - smearing, crimping, side pulls, mantel pushes - all had to be used to scale the day's climbs. We also learned a few knots - the Italian Hitch, Clove Hitch, Double Figure of Eight - and a new method for belaying.

At the end of the day, we had a quick review session. It was already pretty obvious how much our climbing ability had improved - instead of hauling ourselves up the rocks using big obvious ledges, we were taking our time, looking around for the slightest of handholds, and even smearing up the sheer cliff face! But on top of that, everyone was far more comfortable with the idea of climbing - those with a fear of heights knew that they were safe and secure, and we all knew to do our safety checks.

All in all, a fantastic way to spend a weekend, and I'm already looking at doing the improver's' course as soon as possible! Thanks to Nathan and Ruth at Outdoors Ireland, and Roisin at Outsider Magazine, for two days of superb fun!