Sunday saw me working at Giggleswick South near Settle delivering a sport climbing day for Abi and her dad. It had been a long time coming after several Covid-19 related postponements, but we were finally able to meet up in Settle to go climbing.

The day was Abi’s first time climbing after a long lay off due to the wall closures as a result of Covid-19. We started by heading to Anchor Buttress where there are a brace of 5b’s and 5c’s. Abi’s dad, Lee, came along to learn and understand the process of climbing and to share her growing passion for the sport.

After Abi seconded her first route she taught her dad how to tie in and Lee had the opportunity to climb his first outdoor sport climbing route! Lee looked pleased with himself and none too surprised that he managed it!

After having a go at a few of the other routes it was time to change tack. Abi had been doing NICAS awards at her local wall and had begun to lead, so we started the process of teaching Abi to lead climb outside. The emphasis as always is on safety and awareness of the risks. Clipping the first bolt with a clipstick being the first skill we looked at.

Some clipping practice on a top rope with Lee lead belaying followed.

After clipping practice we looked at threading the anchors at the top of the route.

Although we ran out of time Abi achieved so much: climbing her first outdoor sports routes, developing her confidence climbing out side, improving her clipping skills and using the equipment safely. Lee saw his daughter enjoying her sport outside and learnt to tie in and belay both a top rope and a lead climber. A successful day in the sunshine at Gig. 😀