BHUBANESWAR: Members of XBHP, an adventure club, participated in a basic training course on rappelling near Champadei Temple in Raotarapur, Friday.
Rappelling as a sport is not much known in the state. It is basically a controlled descent off a vertical drop, such as a rock face, using a rope and other specialised equipments. It is just the opposite of rock climbing.
The training program was conducted by Rudra Mahapatra who is trained in technical rope rescue by IFAW – WTI [International Fund for Animal Welfare – Wildlife Trust of India].
People in the age group of 10-60 participated in the training. They descended a 50-feet vertical rock. A participant Sajal Sheth said, “I practiced rappelling for the first time in life. There are different ways to experience Nature. Getting down from stiff cliff by rappelling gives me a different perspective on life.” Silvana said, “I felt secure with the equipments that were used as I am quite scared of heights. The program helped me conquer my fears.”
Abdul Quadir said, “It was an amazing experience. I am an adventure lover as this experience takes the level of my confidence to a new high.”
Jyoti Prakash Behera said, “I was curious and scared at same time. I wanted to experience hanging from a cliff with a rope. It was a spectacular feeling. I was amazed to see the views. This was by far the best among all the adventure sports that I have tried.”
Sambit Kar said, “I want to thanks our mentor Rudra Mahapatra who helped me overcome my fear of heights. I was able to complete it smoothly. We also learnt many tricks and tips used in rescue operations. Further, it’s amazing to discover such great spots present around our city for adventure sports.”
Ashesh Rathor said, “It was one of those experiences where you overcome your fears and feel the joy.” All the participants enjoyed a field day at the rappelling site.
