Friday, June 23, 2006
Indoor Climbing Finds Its Roots
This past Saturday 6/17, and previously on June 3rd, Touchstone San Jose hosted its two “Castle Rock Days” outings in June. The events were a complete success with more than 30 participants on both weekends. Even more exciting was that for the majority of climbers this was there first outdoor bouldering experience.
Both days began at eleven o’clock as the climbers rallied near Castle Rock proper, at the prominent Magoo boulder, know for the sandstone flake that resembles the famous cartoon character. A boulder with many moderate problems most of the climbers hung tight to this area as they warmed up, while some split off to their own projects. The local staff showed the San Jose members many challenging eliminates and hidden gems, that proved to be valuable and entertaining lessons in bouldering.
As Saturday wore on, the once large group split up as old and new friends grouped together and split off to work different areas. Most stayed around CR proper, climbing a myriad of problems of all abilities. Because of the large number beginners, the San Jose staff and members offered lots of advice; discussing pad placement, outdoor spotting, and Leave No Trace practices.
In the wake of the success, Touchstone San Jose looks forward to invite its members and friends out to Castle Rock next month. While the rising temperatures and bugs make for less than ideal conditions, all climbers, from beginners to the local hard men, are strongly encouraged nonetheless to come out and join one of Touchstone San Jose’s best activities. ¶ Friday, June 23, 2006
This past Saturday 6/17, and previously on June 3rd, Touchstone San Jose hosted its two “Castle Rock Days” outings in June. The events were a complete success with more than 30 participants on both weekends. Even more exciting was that for the majority of climbers this was there first outdoor bouldering experience.
Both days began at eleven o’clock as the climbers rallied near Castle Rock proper, at the prominent Magoo boulder, know for the sandstone flake that resembles the famous cartoon character. A boulder with many moderate problems most of the climbers hung tight to this area as they warmed up, while some split off to their own projects. The local staff showed the San Jose members many challenging eliminates and hidden gems, that proved to be valuable and entertaining lessons in bouldering.
As Saturday wore on, the once large group split up as old and new friends grouped together and split off to work different areas. Most stayed around CR proper, climbing a myriad of problems of all abilities. Because of the large number beginners, the San Jose staff and members offered lots of advice; discussing pad placement, outdoor spotting, and Leave No Trace practices.
In the wake of the success, Touchstone San Jose looks forward to invite its members and friends out to Castle Rock next month. While the rising temperatures and bugs make for less than ideal conditions, all climbers, from beginners to the local hard men, are strongly encouraged nonetheless to come out and join one of Touchstone San Jose’s best activities. ¶ Friday, June 23, 2006
