Lead Climbing Class

Purpose: To introduce graduates of the Basic Climbing Class to the art and pseudo- science of leading fifth class rock climbs.

Competencies: The Graduate will be able to properly place chocks to protect the lead, will be able to set up a multi-directional anchor, and will be able to do this with confidence knowing that he or she could die or be seriously injured while practicing this sport.

Course Text Book: "Climbing Anchors". By John Long, Chockstone Press, Evergreen, Colorado.

COURSE SCHEDULE

Class Session 1
What the Leader does when leading.
  • Review- Anchors, Belaying the Leader, Protection, Communication
  • Introduce- The Sharp End, Racking Hardware, the role of Slings, Strength of Equipment, Dynamics of a Fall, Check Lists for Belayer and for Leader, Equipment List for Leader.

Practice Session 1
Practicing what the leader does.

Class Session 2
Leading -- what to do in various situations.

  • Review climbing trip, share lessons learned
  • Preparing for the unexpected, What if....?, Accidents in North American mountaineering.

Practice Session 2
Leading -- practicing leading in a relatively low angle climb.

Graduation Climb

Graduation Party
Following the Graduation Climb

For more information, or to register for this course, call Wayne at (480) 704-1682 before 10:00 pm.
For more information about the Southwest Outdoor Club, call Ed at (480) 921-3821 or e-mail us.