Students are Cranking, Crimping, and Throwing on STS's New Climbing Boulder

By: Bruce Hendricks, STS Teacher

The new STS climbing boulder and climbing wall mats are getting a workout as are the students and faculty who are using them. The new boulder, which has been in use since late September, was constructed by Calgary-based company Magic Lab. The new climbing-wall specific mats, installed at the same time, were custom built for our setting by Flashed, an affiliate of Magic Lab. The mats include a modular, removeable section of padding facing the volleyball courts which allow full use of both the volleyball courts and the gym-side of the boulder which otherwise would overlap with one another.

Mr. Straub has continued his creative route setting, building an expanding range of climbing and bouldering routes that engage climbers regardless of age or ability, now on an increased number of surfaces. Grade 2s, 4s, 5s and 6s have been pulling down, crimping, throwing and backstepping (hip climbing terminology) during their Encore sessions after school. Grade 10s, 11s and 12s have been bouldering or toprope climbing during their Physical and Health Education programs and the Senior School Climbing Club has been cranking (hip climbing terminology) on Tuesday’s after school. Both a Middle School and an Elementary School Climbing Club are scheduled for later in the year. Many thanks to all who contributed to making our expanded climbing options a reality.