Spring Climb School Success

Mt. Hood

By Doug Nelson, Climbs Chair

Climb School was a bit different this year. The Climbs Committee had several changes to contend with. First, several of our most knowledgeable and dependable “stalwarts” were absent. (It is hard for me to imagine anyone not helping with the class just for a chance to climb and trek in Nepal!) Second, our classroom in the lodge was not available. And, third, the Riverhouse staff was not available to help with registration and fees collection.

We decided, however, to carry on with the class despite these challenges. And I am pleased to say it went very well. Our great group of Obsidian and Eugene Mountain Rescue volunteers put on a fine class. George Baitinger took care of fees and registration. Maryanne Reiter and Wayne Anderson (EMR) took the primary roles in instruction, with help from a great group of assistant volunteers.

We filled the class to capacity and gave 22 students two days of useful and enjoyable instruction in basic mountaineering techniques. We got lucky with the weather, which made our time on snow (roped travel, self arrest, etc.) and rock (belays, climbing, rappelling) all the more pleasant. I hope all our students enjoyed the class as much as I did.

I want to give special thanks to the Riverhouse for the use of the climbing gear and to Weyerhaeuser Co. for providing a fine meeting space. And, as always, I was very impressed with our volunteers. We had all the cheerful and capable help we needed. Thanks everyone!

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