My Rock Climbing Experience

On April 25, my mum and I went to Kodigahakanda Sanctuary in Horana, to try out rock climbing. This event was exclusively for women and girls.

We were met by the others who wanted to climb, and two members of the organizing team at ClimbLanka. shoes that we could only use on the rock. We had to go on a little hike to get to the rock, but without getting lost or hurt, we safely got to the climbing site.

Once we got to the rock, we were met by the instructor. Guess who she was? It was Jayanthi Kuru-Utumpala! I had previously heard about her from school, and knew that she was an expert climber who reached the summit of Mount Everest!

Once everything was set up, the team introduced themselves, and Jayanthi showed us how to climb and how to set up the gear. The gear included helmets, the harness, climbing shoes, ropes, carabiners, and chalk (but not blackboard chalk).

Then Jayanthi asked us who would there and I stepped forward, and said, stood in shock and my mum said, But I went anyway! You all must think I’m crazy, but it was so worth it!

My main goal was to touch the carabiners at the top. So I needed a belay buddy – a belay buddy is the person who holds the rope while you climb. And Jayanthi was my buddy.

We start with a safety check and buddy check. Once all ropes and locks on the harness are checked, you need buddy has to respond when ready

It was hard work but I managed to climb. There were four levels on this rock, one of the aunties who was with and 2 by lunch time. After lunch the others had stopped at level 3.

at this point too and so were many others. So it wasn’t as easy as it looked. We even got a few cuts on our hands and knees.

While some took a break to practice making the knot called out earlier and used it for my climb), I tried one last time to complete level 3. I made it to the top without any problem!

These are a few things I would recommend for anyone who likes to try rock climbing;

Always trust your gear and the rock, if you feel afraid, you’ll never get over it Always be ready for anything

Don't be afraid to try something new

Mrinali De Silva (9 years) St. Bridget’s Convent