As we're prepping to collect samples from Lilburn, Babs is preparing Ellie and I for the rock climbing aspect of climbing down into the cave. We went out to the Arboretum and threw up a line over a strong tree branch. The lab purchased more climbing gear for us because there are many pieces needed. We work on ascending and descending. While Babs says the majority of the rope work is the easier part--descending--we still need to be able to ascend (climb out of the cave) for an emergency. Switching the line between ascending and descending takes a while to understand and be able to accurately accomplish, but we eventually get there.
Babs says she does push-ups every day to have the upper body strength for rock climbing. I am taking a rock climbing course this quarter and will be aiming to practice at night as well at Rocknasium. Have to buy some climbing shoes first!
Photo: Ellie and Babs discussing how to switch from descending to ascending and the appropriate way to relieve pressure on the line without falling off.
