Rock Climbing Wall Dedicated at Red WOLF Center
JONESBORO – A new rock climbing wall is the latest recreation outlet for students at Arkansas State University. They gathered in the campus Red WOLF Center a day before semester final exams start to dedicate the wall and give it a try.
Carol Cummings, director of campus recreation at Red WOLF (Wellness Opportunities and Life Fitness) Center, welcomed those attending a brief ceremony and discussed how student initiative brought about the new feature.
The project originated two years ago after the results of a student survey indicated a desire to add a climbing wall at the center, which was opened in January 2010.
Nicros Inc. of St. Paul, Minnesota, installed the wall in less than a month. It is 31 feet tall by 21 feet wide, providing more than 600 square feet of climbing space. The wall has four climbing lanes and eight possible climbing routes.
Cummings said wall attendant staff members have been safety trained by a certified Instructor of the Climbing Wall Association. All necessary climbing equipment is provided: harness, shoes, belay devices, chalk, carabiners.
The wall is challenging enough for experienced climbers, and has easier routes for the beginning climber, she added.
The grand opening event included refreshments, prize wheel, and giveaways, not to mention the climbing challenge offered to those attending.
The rock climbing wall is open for use Monday through Thursday, 3-9 p.m.; Friday, 2-8 p.m.; and Saturday, 3-8 p.m.
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