| Jeff Kundert ~ Apr 22, 2002 |
| Just wanted to say thank you for a great weekend. A special thanks to Steve and Mike for coordinating everything, and to all the leaders who spent their time giving such great instruction. I had a fantastic time, and cant wait to get out again. Jeff |
| Jennifer Truax ~ Apr 25, 2002 |
| Smith Rock was a great experience. Thanks Steve for doing such a great job teaching me to belay. I missed that at Horsethief Butte since we ran out of time. I definately plan to work on the hang back maneuver Mike, gotta get that! Thanks to all the Instructors for the set up and the guidance. I learned so much thanks to you! See you soon! jenn |
| Steve Dougherty ~ May 5, 2002 |
| This was the fourth annual "Intro to Smith Rock" weekend. It was scheduled three weeks after the Chemeketan Climb School to give recent graduates an opportunity to find out what rock climbing is like at Smith Rock and how to belay a "top roped" climb. This years trip had a record turnout. Eight leaders/assistants and 15 participants took part. A big thank you to the leaders and assistants, because this trip would not be possible without your help. A special thank you to Mike Rudy for procuring ropes and doing the lion share of rope setup. Climbers spent their first day on Staender Ridge where six top ropes, ranging in difficulty from 5.5 to 5.8, were set. The weather was cool and clear making for an enjoyable day. The second day was spent at the "Textbooks" on the "Student Wall" instead of the customary "Rope-De-Dope Block". Five top ropes were set, all rated at 5.7. The morning was quite cold in the shade of the west facing "Student Wall", but became comfortable when the Suns rays chased away the shade. In addition to climbing the challenging routes, all participants worked on their belaying skills under the direct supervision of Chemeketan climb leaders and assistants. Climb Leaders: S. Dougherty, M. Rudy, T. Weimer. Assistant Leaders: B. Tedrow, K. Richardson, D. Marsh, JP. Petrin, S. Phillips. Participants: Malik Vaqas, Gustavo Meneses, Matt VanCampen, Dave Widmer, Walt Nervik, Chase Tedrow, Joanna Picchi, Jeff Kundert, Tom Bradley, Haydar Kutuk, Galadriel Herdman, Jennifer Truax, Joy Baker, Nancy Fletcher, Julie Tucker. |