Hocking College Outdoor Pursuits: 2010

Tuesday, December 7, 2010

Tour of the Dirty South 2010 - Rock Town, HP40, Red River and Lilly

OP will be again offering; The Tour of the Dirty South

This can be taken as a class too, 1 credit hour!

The southern climbing and bouldering trip or(Tour of the Dirty South) is December 26th- January 2. This is a one week long climbers dream. By the end of the week you will have been to Rock town Georgia, Lilly Boulders Tennessee , and last but not least Horse Pins 40 Alabama at stop on the Triple Crown Series. All of these places are world class climbing destinations and have plenty of climbing for beginners to advanced climbers, whether your touching real rock for the first time or a V12 pulling mutant, you will find something to test your grip on. This trip is full of great climbing, good people, and new experiences.

We travel by school van, with a box trailer for all of our gear, meaning we camp in style. We spend the days climbing, nights by the fire, and crash in tents for a well earned rest. We cook breakfasts and dinners as a group, eat as a group, all of a menu picked and planned by our experienced and dedicated staff. If you have ever been on a HCOP trip, you know we don't mess around when it comes to food. We plan and prepare hearty meals, that we refuel you for future sends. Winter Bouldering? Cold? Don't worry about the cold, in only make the friction that much better! We also bring trick of the trade with us, we have more then one way to stay warm while climbing, and more then enough extra sleeping bags to keep you toasty at night.

There is no reason why you should miss this trip. Even our "Little Justin", will be attending this trip again, only this time he will be a assistant trip leader, bringing with him the lessons learned from last years tour.

So don't miss this opportunity to see some of what the South has to offer in this non-stop climbing extravaganza.

Total Cost: $160 a person

Deposit: $55 due Friday Dec 10th

Pre-trip Meeting: Monday Dec 13 @5pm

· Open to all Hocking Students

· Gear Provided

· Most Meals Provided (fee covers breakfast and dinner every day)

· No Experience Necessary

· Beautiful Outdoor Setting

· Depart: Sunday Dec 26 @10am

· Return: Saturday Jan 2 @ 10pm

So if you already love to climb or even if you've never really tried it and you want to go, feel free to contact the Outdoor Pursuits Coordinator Tim Rice by Email at rice_timmy@gmail.com or phone 753-6541

Want some more info on the areas we might visit? Check out these extra links:
HP40 on MP,
Rocktown on MP,
Lost Wall at Rock Town on MP,
Pdf for Lilly Boulders,
Lilly Bouldering on RC.com.
Lilly Bouldering Video on LT11

Wednesday, November 24, 2010

Mount Rogers Backpacking Trip

On the morning of Friday, November 19th the sun was shining as the Outdoor Pursuits crew loaded up a van for a weekend of backpacking along the Appalachian Trail in Virginia. The group arrived at the trailhead at dusk and quickly set off for the first campsite. Friday night the temperatures were a little colder than anticipated as we set up camp by flashlight under the bright southern stars. As we ate dinner, we were treated to a show of stealth bombers flying low overhead in what seemed to be a training exercise.

Day two of the trip began with high winds putting our tents to the test and we worked together to break camp without letting anything blow away. Encounters with the area’s famous wild ponies lightened the mood as we pushed on toward our destination. The sun peaked through clouds on a few occasions, adding some much appreciated warmth to the climb toward the summit of Mount Rogers. We made it to the highest point in the state of Virginia for a nice relaxing lunch, enjoying the fruits of our labor at 5,729 ft. above sea level.

The weather had improved by the time we reached our second campsite, and the nearly full moon rose above us as we told jokes and ate some delicious snacks around the campfire. Everyone slept much better the second night because we had all worked hard and it was such a calm and peaceful night.

Our second campsite was still a decent day’s hike from the van, so we had little time to waste as we packed up on the final day. There was, however, plenty of time for a trailside lunch, photos of the spectacular views along the way, and a lot of laughs before we wrapped up the last Outdoor Pursuits backpacking trip of 2010.

Tuesday, November 23, 2010

This past weekend Outdoor Pursuits hopped in the wagon and scooted on down to the Red River Gorge of Kentucky. Along the way, we made a pit-stop at Hillbilly Hotdogs in West Virginia, where the brave few try to demolish the Home-wrecker, a 15 pound hotdog, loaded with toppings.

It was a beautiful weekend, with the rain holding off until Sunday. We woke up Saturday and set out for a day at the crag. With good weather in our hands, we climbed all day. Everyone got to climb something that they enjoyed.

Sunday we awoke to a bit of rain, but we didn’t let that hold us back. We climbed in areas where the rain couldn’t get to. It was a great way to spend the weekend, with a rad group of people. Hope to see you guys next time!

Wednesday, November 3, 2010

Coopers Rock Trip Review

On Tuesday OP and some students took advantage of the class free day to go work some boulders at Coopers Rock WV. It was early and cold Tuesday morning when we packed up the van and started our trip to go climb for the day. Arriving to a awesome fall day at Coopers Rock couldnt have been better. Everyone had their eyes set on some problems that they wanted to climb. The climbing started at a gnarly V5 cleverly named helicopter while others climbed a classic V3 called Moby's Dick. Everyone climbed until there tips were purple. We left at night after several hours of some awesome climbing and headed to The Black Bear Burrito. The burritos were awesome and everyone was ready to head home. Stomachs full of burritos, we packed into the van a interesting ride back to hocking. This trip was a great one and I would like to give a big thanks to everyone who came and I cant wait for another adventure.

Monday, November 1, 2010

Kinetic Columbus Trip Report

On Thursday the 28 of October, we took a group of students up to Kinetic annual climbing competition, "CRANK-O-WEEN". This is the second year that we have attended the event, which is a bouldering comp, hosted by Kinetic of Columbus, which is a climbing COOP. They order new holds, strip their wall and set 48 fresh problems to test the strengths of those that attend.

Check out this video from columbus alive about the event.

Kinetic Climbing Comp from columbus alive on Vimeo.

More photos can be seen at Kinetic's Facebook Page.

The contingency of climbers that we took down did very well, with someone placing in every division!!

Monday, October 25, 2010

Climbing Club Athens Bouldering Trip Review

On Oct 20th we packed up the van and climbing club went to Athens to crush on some local rock. We set off for the Trailer Park area to intruduce our participants to some problems they have never worked before.

Our first stop was the birds nest area everyone was eager to get on Tarzan a V4 and on Birds Nest another V4. We worked our fingers until it was night fall and everyone sent a problem they wanted or put a new boulder on there list. The crew hiked out of the woods to get some grub at some local burrito spots. It was a great way to spend a Wednesday afternoon and cant wait to do another one.

Bike Day Trip to Lake Hope SP

November 7th

Join us for a great day of biking on the trails at Lake Hope State Park. There are many mountain bike trails, one for every skill level. No equipment? No problem, we have bikes and gear for you to borrow to join in the fun. Join us on this fun filled day of biking.
Cost $10

Mt. Rogers Backpack Trip

November 19-21

Have you ever wanted to summit a mountain, see wild ponies or just live out of a backpack for a weekend? Well then this trip is perfect for you! Come backpack with us through what some say is the best part of the Appalacian Trail. We will travel light and cover short distances to accommodate moderate skill levels. All you need is a sturdy pair of boots and our line up of attractive and knowledgeable will help you with the rest.

Cost is $55 and this covers everything besides your personal food.

Pre-trip meeting Nov.16th at 4:00pmContact Tim Rice for more info at rice_thocking.edu

Monday, October 4, 2010

Hocking Hills Day Trip Nov. 6th

Looking to get your crush on? Wanting to smash some sick climbs? If you answered yes to one of those then Outdoor Pursuits has a trip for you. Come enjoy a day of some great top roping and gnarly bouldering in The Hocking Hills. This trip is for all expiernce levels and all you need is to pack yourself a lunch and prepare to climb. Cost$10

Contact Tim Rice at Rice_t@hocking.edu to sign up or for more information.

Thursday, September 16, 2010

Day Bouldering Trip to Coopers Rock

So if everyone noticed, there are no day classes on Nov 2. So that means you should have time to come on a climbing trip with Outdoor Pursuits.

We have a trip planned to Coopers Rock State Park in West Virginia. We will leave from the student center around 8:30 am on Tuesday morning and return late Tuesday evening after a day of "Grit Stone" climbing and stop for diner at Black Bear Burritos.

We will be bring Hocking's crash pads so the you can hop on any boulder problem you want, whether it be "Twist da Hick", "Moby's Dick", or "Anti-Elvis" there is sure to be a problem for your liking. We can also supply climbing shoe and the O.P. staff will be there for the spot and positive words of encouragement.

Cost:$10 and bring a little extra to get your burrito on!!!

Athens Bouldering Trip

Oct 6th and 20th
Join Hocking College Outdoor Pursuits and Climbing Club as we take a little bouldering trip to Athens .Our staff will give you a tour of some of the finest sandstone that Ohio has to offer. We can supply chalk, shoes and crash pads.
Cost $3

For more information about athens bouldering check out http://athensbouldering.blogspot.com/

Red River Gorge Climbing Trip November 12-14

The Red River Gorge is located in Kentucky and is a premiere climbing destination throughout the world. They have everything from beginner level climbing to ultra hard routes for any experienced climbers that want to come and push there limits. If you feel a little hesitant because you don't have any experience don't worry about it. We have all the knowledge and gear you need to go out and enjoy your weekend.

Notice: The total cost for the weekend is $45. This covers camping, transportation and camping and climbing gear usage, this doesn't cover food. You are responsible for you own food. We can however provide stove and cook wares.

Remember to bring extra money because you will make a stop at Miguel's pizza/gear store for a couple ale-8-ones and some dank pizza. This trip is sure to be a great one.

Thursday, July 1, 2010

Staff Positions Available

Outdoor Pursuits is looking to hire some staff for the summer and beyond. If interested please drop off a resume for review. We are looking for fill at least one to five spots for this summer and up coming fall. (positions available; wall, trip, and disc golf maintenance)

Resumes can be left at the student center front desk for Tim Rice or emailed to Rice_t@hocking.edu

Tuesday, June 15, 2010

Temporary Disc Golf Course Closure

Notice of Temporary Course Closure

The Hocking College Disc Golf course will be closed on the week of July 7-12 for another event that will be using the grounds. The course will be closed from Wednesday July 7th at 8am until Monday morning for the International Bow Hunters Challenge, they will be using the same grounds as our disc golf course so it will by temporarily closed for safety concerns. Please help spread the word of the closure.

Thanks,
Hocking College
Tim Rice

Friday, April 30, 2010

Huck-a-Roo

Hocking College Disc Golf Tournament

Nelsonville Ohio Saturday May 29, 2010

This will be an unsanctioned tournament Player Sign Up Begins May 3rd Contact Tim Rice

(rice_t@hocking.edu or 740-753-6541) Event Day Check-in will begin at 9:30 am 1st

twenty-five participants to sign up will receive a disc10:15 m Players Meeting

Tee Off will be at 10:30 am

There will be one round of 18 played from the short tees and one round of 18 from mixed tees

There will be three divisions- Advanced, Intermediate, and Recreational

1st-3rd place in each division will receive a prize

There will be a CTP (closest to the pin) after each round of play

There will be an optional ace fund

There will also be a 6 hole kids tournament available

Rules and regulations will be posted soon.

Monday, April 12, 2010

Kinetic Climbing Stimulus Competition

Come With Us as wee go up to compete in Kinetic's Stimulus Bouldering Competition. Kinetic is a bouldering facility located in C-bus near the north campus area.

Cost: $15 Total ($5 for Transportation Fee and $10 to Kinetic for Event Entry)

Departure: We will leave from the Student Center and 4pm on Thursday April 29th, the Comp start at 6

Return: We will arrive back at campus around 11ish

What to bring: money for food on the way up, and same if you want food on the way home- your shoes and chalk-snacks and water for during the comp

If your interested contact the OP office to sign up: 753-6541, located in 202 in the Student Center

Athens Bouldering Trip I

April 14

Join Hocking College Outdoor Pursuits and Climbing Club as we take a little bouldering trip to Athens and visit the trailerpark boulder and COAD boulders.Our staff will give you a tour of some of the finest sandstone that ohio has to offer. We can supply chalk, shoes and crash pads. YOU can be the first to fall on our new revolution Mission pads.

Cost: $3

Departure Time: 5:05pm from the Student Center Return: After dark, and a stop at dairy queen

Date: April 14

Space is Limited, So Stop in the OP Office to sign up with Tim

Day Bike Trip to Alumn Creek SP

May 22nd

Bike Day Trip to Alum Creek SP May 22nd Join us for a great day of biking on the trails at Alum Creek State Park. There are 3 mountain bike trails, one for every skill level. No equipment? No problem, we have bikes and gear for you to borrow to join in the fun. Join us on this fun filled day of biking.

Cost: $15

Departing for the Student Center at 8am SHARP

Thursday, April 8, 2010

Mustach March Results

Well Mustach March has come and gone and scarred a few souls in the process. Some have learned that folicle freedom is a ability to be cherished, while others have learned or been told by friends and family that they should never try to attempt such a feat again.

We raised $60 and collected 41 food items weighing in at 46 pounds totals from entry fees and voting donations. This is all being donated to the Athens County Food Pantry.

Here is a recap of the divisions:

Divisions:
Best of Show: The name basically sums it up. This award is reserved for the most spectacular specimen produced over the course of the month. This is utterly subjective to the judge's personal opinion, no matter how revealing that may be.
Most Disturbing: When you look at this mustache, goosebumps will appear in places you didn't know you had follicles. If you saw a layman on the street with this mustache, you'd warn other peoples children about this man.
Most Fitting: Sometimes the stars align and a man becomes something... more, with a mustache. This award is given to the mustache that makes a man greater than the sum of his otherwise wholly inadequate parts.
Dirtlip Award: The little follicles that couldn't. The recipient of this award can only take solace in the fact that this is all for charity.
Pre-Existing Condition Class: This is an wholly separate class reserved for the few, proud men who choose to wear a mustache every day of their glorious lives. Members of this class are not required to shave their existing mustaches on March 1st, but they are subject to rule #2 listed above. There is only one award for this class, and members of this class are not eligible for any other award categories. Members of this class are encouraged to go for "trick" points as their thick, luxurious, upper-lip base has long been established.
Fakie: Mustache March is all about equal opportunity humiliation. This Award is for the Ladies. Buy or make your best follicle creation and wear it loud and proud on April 1st during the main event for live judging. No animals may be harmed in the creation of your test piece!

And here were the Rules:

The Rules:
Mustache March Rules:
1. All registered participants must be clean-shaven on March 1st, unless they are competing in the pre-existing condition class.
2. Facial hair of any variety is allowed until March 15th, after which point only a mustache is allowed. A mustache is defined as an island of hair that is at least 1cm (root to root) from the nearest body of facial hair. A mustache is an island. Get it? No isthmuses or peninsulas allowed.
3. Registered participants who shave off their mustache prior to judging, or those who refuse to obey to the "island" rule after March 15th are disqualified.
4. Participants will be subjected to a minimum of 2 photographs (before and after) during the course of Mustache March for documentation/humiliation purposes. Additional photography will be solicited. It is highly recommended that you comply to this solicitation for humiliation purposes.
5. Members wishing to compete for the Fakie Award must be present on April 1st at 4pm.

And the Results:

"Best of Show" went to the Student Center own Nate Perez with fine showing of follicle dominance.

"Most Fitting" went to Dan Yancey with a look that could start a revolution, a Mustache Revolution.

"Most Disturbing" was a tie. Believe it or not there were two individuals in this competition that should have not have been allowed to participate. Not because they couldn't grow a stache, but because there attempts at "Stachation" were so traumatic to the general public we have decide to have our legal department draft a contact. Contract states that, these two individuals will never attempt to abuse their upper lip again. Oh, by the way these two are Ian Brown and Joey Stansfield.

"Dirt Lip" went to Justin Snyder with the little follicles that just couldn't. We have encouraged him to train hard in the off season and come back next year.

"Pre - Existing" went to David Breland. It must be known that this field was very limited, we would love to see more Mustache displayed in this category next season. Because these are the individuals who truly challenge social norms and wear their Staches like a badge of honor.

"Fakie" We were very disapointed that no one showed up with a fake display of upper lip hair.

Lastly we would like to give a shout out of thanks to all 30+ individuals that competed in Mustach March and helped the Athens County Food Pantry.

Until next year, let follicle freedom ring.

Photos from the Finale can be found one our Facebook page along with photos from throughout the competition.

Sunday, April 4, 2010

Hot and Nasty Spring Break Adventure Pt. 1

While many college students across the country hit the beach in search of who knows what, a group of us from Hocking headed inland for Spring Break. Early Sunday morning six of us met at the student center to load up and get a move on. We were headed for the fabled rock of the Midwest. We filled the trailer, hopped in the van, and took off for the country's interior.

After a few hours drive we found ourselves in Louisville, Ky. We stopped for a quick round of disc golf in the rain. While it wasn't pouring we had a bad feeling about this precipitation and what it might mean for the rest of our climbing pilgrimage. We stopped again somewhere in Indiana at one of those huge truck stops with the fast food inside. Some grabbed the ever gut wrenching T-Bell while I chose the more user friendly Subway. This would prove to be a mistake.

When I ordered my sandwich the girl behind the counter asked me if I would like double meat and a free cookie. I said yes to the free cookie not realizing that I needed the extra proteins to get the oatmeal raisin treat. There was a long moment of confusion between us about it which I thought was caused by my lack of sleep. This would prove to be untrue. There were a few other instances of supreme confusion during the toasted or untoasted section of my transaction as well as the veggie portion. Now it's time for sauce. I asked politely for Chipotle Southwest. Her response was simply, "Great Job".

Now I'm not sure if it's just the boredom induced by growing up in Truckstop, Indiana or if it was some inside joke that I didn't get, but this was more than I could handle. I paid quickly and left so as to avoid the panic attack I could feel swelling up inside me. I sat my sandwich on the table and announced to the group that, "ordering that sandwich nearly killed me". They all erupted into laughter. When I told them the story they were nearly in tears. This puzzled me until I found out that Eric had just minutes before relayed a similar story to the group. So thank you Indiana for all the fun and laughs. Lets never do that again.

After a quick check of the weather it became apparent that SoIll would be soaked and we decided to head straight for Arkansas. Things would soon spiral into a new realm of funny/weird/ridiculous/confusing. For more than a few hours we drove through rain of all kinds. I think Forrest Gump said it best, "We been through every kind of rain there is. Little bitty stingin' rain... and big ol' fat rain. Rain that flew in sideways. And sometimes rain even seemed to come straight up from underneath. Shoot, it even rained at night... ". Then the rain cleared and we arrived in Springfield, Mo.

We had stopped for a Wal-mart run. We needed supplies and this was the last vestige of hope to get them. We spent some time in the store picking out food and looking at things we might need. We loaded it all in the trailer and hopped back in the van. Tim noticed something was under our windshield wiper and Dan grumbled something about hating it when people do that. Tim pulled it out and quickly realized that it was not some dumb flyer.

Upon examination he revealed to us a note. It was written by some girls that we had seen in the store. It asked us what band we were in and that we should hit them up on facebook. We laughed for a good while and decided to take pictures, those will come soon, I assure you. So now with our food and gear stowed we hit the road for Arkansas.

When we got to Horseshoe Canyon Ranch there was several inches of snow on the ground. We were worried to say the least. It was 3am, we were tired, and there was snow. things weren't looking good.

Monday, March 29, 2010

Western PA Backpacking Trip April 9th-11th

Seventy miles of trail in the Laural Highland of Pennsylvania await our boots. Join us as we explore the area and view all of the flora and fauna that his region has to offer. We will only be taking photos and leaving foot prints on this weekend excursion.

West Virgina White Water Rafting

April 30-May 2
If you've never visited the New River Gorge in West Virginia you are missing the experience of a lifetime! Each year, over 250,000 adventurers go to West Virginia to experience the best of New River Gorge
rafting, and why shouldn't you. We are going to be rafting some gnarly rapids that you wont want to miss out on. So come raft one of the New River, on of the oldest rivers in the world.

This trip is geared for any experience level!

Cost: $150
Includes:
- Transportation
- 2 Nights Camping
- 1 Day Rafting Lower New (Class II to IV Rapids)
- Breakfast, Lunch and Diner day of Trip
Departure Time: Friday @ 5pm on April 30
Return Time: Sunday @ 3pm on May 2

Questions or to Sign Up:
Contact Tim Rice at 740-753-6541 or email at Rice_t@hocking.edu

Mt Bike Day Trip Mt Wood Park April 18th

Join us for a great day of biking on the trails at Alum Creek State Park. There are 3 mountain bike trails, one for every skill level. No bike or equipment? No problem, we have a full line bikes and gear for you to borrow to join in the fun. A lunched grilled by your favorite OP staff is included. May 22nd will be a rad day of biking and everyone is invited.

Cost: $15

Includes: The trip there and back, all the gear you need (bikes, camel backs, helmets, ect..), Lunch grilled by OP.

Thursday, March 18, 2010

Red River Gorge Climbing Trip April 23-25

Notice: The total cost for the weekend is $45
This covers camping, transportation and camping and climbing gear usage, this doesn't cover food. You are responsible for you own food. We can however provide stove and cook wares.

Remember to bring extra money because you will make a stop at Miguel's pizza/gear store for a couple ale-8-ones and some dank pizza. This trip is sure to be a great one.

If your interested you can sign up by contacting:
Tim Rice
rice_t@hocking.edu

Disc Golf Trip to Chilicothe April 17th

One of the top rated disc golf courses in the state sits right out side of Chilicothe proper. Spend the Saturday with us as we play Pike Lake SP, Great Seal SP and OU- Chilicothes courses. The day will include a Pinic type lunch at one of the state parks grilled by the OP staff.

Cost: $10

Includes: Van ride there and back, lunch cooked by the OP staff, any disc or gear you need to borrow.

May 29th Hocking College Disc Golf Tournament

That's right. We will be hosting our first ever disc golf tournament on our newly redesigned 18 hole course. This will be non-PGDA tournament that will be open to to all, students, friends, locals, and anyone else who want to participate. We plan to have a kids division too! Details to come later!!

Wednesday, March 10, 2010

Hot and Nasty Spring Break

Arkansas Climbing Trip

It’s about time we start talking about our spring break trip. We have planned the most bodacious climbing vacation your minds can handle. Were headed to the Ozark Mountains to get aggro and send some sicky gnar gnar routes. On the way we’ll make a stop in SoIll and get nasty on Jason Kehl’s hometown pebbles.

We will leave on Sunday, March 21st at 9am sharp from the student center. After crossing Ohio and navigating the plains of Indiana we will find ourselves immersed in the gritty sandstone of Southern Illinois. After a night of listless sleep we will rise with the sun(O.K., not with the sun, but sometime after) and get to slapping the stone. We will spend that night there in SoIll.

The next morning will encompass a drive through Missouri and into the heart of the Ozarks. Upon arrival in Arkansas we will brace ourselves for the treacherous curves and steep hills that lead us to the Mid-western promised land called Horseshoe Canyon Ranch. This area was made famous by climbers like Chris Sharma and Fed Nicole in more than a handful of climbing videos.

HCR, or the Shoe as it’s known by locals, boasts the best climbing between the divides. Everything from 5.6 and V0 al the way to V15 and 5.14a. So no matter where your skills lie, you can find it here in Arkansas. While there we may hit up another great spot, Sam’s Throne. This is a great sandstone and limestone area about 30 min from the Shoe.

I highly recommend this trip to the climbers that want to climb in the most beautiful place in America. To the ones that want the most aesthetic lines. To those that just want a rad experience. As someone that learned to climb in Arkansas I can assure you, this place will meet, exceed, and destroy any expectations you may have.

Now for logistics. There are two ways you can get on this trip. Both of which you must go through Tim Rice in SC202 to accomplish. You can either:
a) Take this awesome trip for the low cost of $200.
b) Take this rad adventure as a class and use financial aid.

Which ever you decide, you must see Tim Rice. He is the Gate Keeper and you are not Sigourney Weaver.

Included in the cost is:
All your camping and climbing fees.
2 meals a day. With the exception of food eaten while in transit.
Gas to get there.
Use of Outdoor Pursuits Equipment.

Cruxfest Climbing Competition Results

This years CruxFest put on by H.C.O.P was one for the books. Doors opened at 9 am with climbers spilling in ready to compete on some nasty routes. With a turn out of 58 competitors it was going to be a battle for some sweet prizes and bragging rights. Coffee was brewing and climbing was starting and we were in for a day of crushing some sweet plastic. All three divisions had 4 routes to climb with difficulty increasing after every route. Everyone climbed their hardest and duked it out for first. Below is the our results.