When I got back to London I booked myself on a beginners rock climbing weekend course in North Wales, near Capel Curig. I didn’t have anyone to teach me or even to belay me so a course seemed the best bet.
I had no specific gear for climbing and was reluctant to invest much money in it immediately so I decided to hire the basics in Wales. I did however buy some climbing shoes. I didn’t really know what sort of features I should be looking for so made my decision largely on a close fit and also comfort (although comfort became relative as most types seemed pretty tight and stiff!). I was advised by the shop assistant to also consider the stiffness of the sole as I was a beginner – I was told I might appreciate some support along the length of the foot and they were right! I ended up buying some red chilis and although many will argue the stiffness inhibits one’s climbing I am still at the stage where the benefit far outweighs the disadvantage.
The course started with a morning learning a few key knots such as the figure of eight and a clove hitch and also belaying. This was followed by an afternoon at a small crag with a height of about 8m.
On the second day we were taken to the Moelwyns and were brought face to face with a multipitch route. This was to be my first multipitch climb and the height suddenly seemed a bit overwhelming. All of us students were seconding at a 3:1 ratio with an instructor leading so as long as everyone did as they were told, there was little real danger. I don’t suffer from vertigo but I did feel fear – not the type I have since felt leading but one of uncertainty.
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