Mike Banos
March 31, 2007
A growing number of extreme sports enthusiasts are trooping down south to test their wits and wills against the growing rep of the white water of the Cagayan de Oro River. As the country's first and only year round white water rafting destination, perhaps it's only appropriate that this city and the region to which it is a part of lay claim to the title as the Extreme Sports Capital of the Philippines.
Beyond its official numerical X designation as one of the country's administrative regions, it has developed over the years a number of the X sports destinations that hard core X sports aficionados all over the country have found worth their while to come back to again and again.
Here are three worth mentioning that are within easy reach of the casual visitor or hard core X sport fanatics:
Perhaps adventuresome tourists or novice X sporters would do well to take first crack at the Makahambus Adventure Park. Just 25 minutes from the city proper and 10 minutes from the Lumbia airport (for those who can't wait upon landing or are catching a plane), Indiana Jones wannabes can cross a 120-meter long sky bridge 150-feet off the ground spanning centuries old trees to admire the view of the spectacular Makahambus Gorge from various perspectives.
If that doesn't get your adrenaline flowing, rappel 120 feet down the gorge or brave the 120-meter "Slide-for-Life" Zip Line for only P500 for the whole package or P300 for either Skybridge and Zipline, or Rappelling only.
Makahambus hill has a hallowed place in Philippine history: here local hero Apolinar Velez led the Mindanao Battalion to victory over the Americans in the 'Battle of Makahambus Hill' in June 4, 1900, the only victory of Filipino forces over the U.S. forces in Mindanao during the Philippine-American War.
Further east through the Maharlika National Highway going east and turning right through to the Gardens of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village, lies a 2,490 hectare forest reserve developed by the late vice president Emmanuel Peleaz a mere 30 minutes away from the city proper. It includes a cattle ranch, a forest reserve and the Mapawa Nature Park.
Your P40 entrance fee will buy you access to the park's extreme sports attractions which includes a six-stage zipline course which costs P250 per head, though you can also limit yourself to the first three stages which includes a 60-meter zipline, 25 meter monkey bridge and 70 ft. zip and 13 ft. rappel for only P125/head.
Or try the more advanced second stage with a 100 meter zipline and 100 meter zip return for only P100/head and take your option of a 40-feet rappel at P50/head or 100 meter zipline and 40-foot rappel for P150.
You can also give their trampoline a try, it's only P25 per head for 10 minutes of totally inane or totally entertaining trampoline, whichever frame of mind pervades you that day.
Or you can go horseback riding through the 2,000 hectare reforestation area for only P75/head for a 15 minute trail ride to P175/head for one hour, free riding instructions included. There's also a 3 hr. trail ride to the park's 55 foot waterfalls or 2 hr. cowboy trail ride through the cattle pasture.
You can also coordinate with the management for a variety of team building activities including greasy pig, palosebo, cattle wrestling show, ecological trek, obstacle course, bonfire or camping (day or night). The park has amenities which include view decks, picnic tables, camp ground where you can pitch your tents (day or night, min. 12 pax @100/head), light a bonfire, or go dipping in the swimming hole.
But for that truly unforgettable Xperience, take their River Trekking and Canyoneering Package, your personal epic saga which starts at 7am and ends at 3pm, for only P950 /head (minimum 5 pax) inclusive of bottled water, snacks, packed lunch, trek guides, mountaineering equipment and life vests.
That may sound pretty steep but consider the following Xtreme Adventure: you start off with a 30 minute ride on a trailer pulled by a farm tractor while being briefed on the reforestation project. At the drop off your group takes a 15 minute trek downhill to the river where you all don life vests for a screaming waterslide down a 25 ft natural waterfall, followed by a 30 foot jump from another waterfall and a rappel down a 65 ft. waterfall. After lunch, you can either trek back to the trailer or ride back to the park on horseback (costs extra through). Or you can camp out in the park or stay overnight at the ranch with bed and breakfast, though prior arrangements for this are necessary.
But if all that's still too tame for you, then it's the DOME Expedition Tours by Detour: The Adventure Company for you, which includes the famous Noslek Canopy Walk in Claveria, Misamis Oriental and an option of spelunking in the Kweba de Oro in Barangay Lumbia or Pinoy whitewater rafting using lashed salbabidas.
Definitely not for the faint-hearted, you start off the first day of your weekend X adventure with an hour long trek from Magbais, Mat-i in Claveria to reach the access deck where you will be fitted with a safety harness for your walk in the clouds 3,500 feet above the sea level and 24-36 meters above ground. Your adventure starts with a 40 meter zipline to the first view deck and it will all be hanging "monkey" bridges from there. From you vantage point above the forest canopy, you will have a bird's eye view of the virgin forest in a watershed that's been declared an eco-tourism zone. On your way back, you have the option of a cold dip in the pristine waters of a natural pool with a small waterfall. You can also walk upriver to see more such pools and waterfalls.
Next day, you it's a two-hour spelunking (caving to the uninitiated) of the Kweba de Oro which includes a 110ft rappel down to the cave entrance and a two-hour trek inside the cave following an underground stream through a cavern festooned with stalagmites and stalactites. After lunch, you get up close and personal with the mighty Cagayan River with "Pinoy" white water rafting. It's all fun, no fear, with rafters as young as 70 and as old as two having previously made the trip. You will navigate 6.4 kms. of the Cagayan river with 14 rapids rated Class 3-4 (5 being the highest) with safety helmets and life vests provided by your outfitter.
The nifty thing about DOME's Expedition Tours is the convenience of being able to arrive by plane in the first flight from Manila, go to either the canopy walk or spelunking and Pinoy rafting in the afternoon, yet still have enough time left to make it back home with the last flight around 5:30PM.
The canopy walk will set you back from P1,933 per head for a minimum group of three but goes down to P800 per for a group of 10. A half-day's tubing would cost you P900 per head and P1,500 for a full-day. Spelunking at the Kweba de Oro ranges from P1,717 for a group of three to as low as P760 for a group of 10.
Of course, for the ultimate adrenaline rush, few can match the thrill and adventure of a day's white water rafting in the Cagayan River.
Most of the six 'outfitters' offer two types of runs: the beginners/amateur course runs 12.9 kms. with 14 Class 2-3 rapids and lasts 3.5 hrs. including side trips while the advanced or extreme/expert course is longer at 18.6 kms and can take up to 5 hrs with 14 Class 2-4 rapids.
The beginners course costs P900 per person (minimum of five persons) and includes a cavern side trip, jeepney transfer to the rafting area from the Park Café in Plaza Divisoria, briefing on rafting, provision of safety and protection equipment, river and rescue guides, and a fresh shower and change of clothes at the disembarkation point. The longer advanced/extreme expert course costs P1,300 per person (min. of five pax) with much of the same amenities.
Rafters are provided with safety and protection equipment including a certified rafting helmet, life vest certified for white water sports, paddle which can also serve as a safety tool in emergencies, and throw bags with ropes with which a dunked passenger be hauled in from up to 10 meters away by rescuers.
Additional safety measures include the deployment of a rescue raft manned by two experienced river guides with every run, first aid kit, and emergency rescue vehicle which can bring any accident victim to the nearest hospital in 20-25 minutes.
Rafters are advised to wear comfortable close fitting shirts, preferably quick-dry; short pants preferably light and quick drying, and strap-on sandals or aqua shoes. Other mandatory stuff experienced rafters bring along are extra clothes and under garments, towel, swimsuit and sunscreen.
Monday, April 2, 2007
Sunday, April 1, 2007
Stunt man films himself skiing down Underground escalator
LONDON A man who filmed himself skiing down a London Underground escalator is being investigated by police.
The 60-second film, which has been viewed by more than 100,000 people on the internet, shows the man hurtling down the 100 metre (300ft) escalator at Angel station in North London at a speed of more than 30mph.
In the footage, shot from a camera in the man’s helmet, passengers can be seen strolling past as he fixes his skis at the top of the escalator. He then launches himself down the stairs, arriving to applause at the bottom seven seconds later.
British Transport Police said that the “naive and reckless” skier was liable for prosecution.
John Spelman, who produced the Norwegian DVD, yesterday insisted that passers-by had not been put at risk because friends of the skier had waned away members of the public immediately before the sunt took place.
He named the man as a Norwegian freestyle skier called Arild.
The 60-second film, which has been viewed by more than 100,000 people on the internet, shows the man hurtling down the 100 metre (300ft) escalator at Angel station in North London at a speed of more than 30mph.
In the footage, shot from a camera in the man’s helmet, passengers can be seen strolling past as he fixes his skis at the top of the escalator. He then launches himself down the stairs, arriving to applause at the bottom seven seconds later.
British Transport Police said that the “naive and reckless” skier was liable for prosecution.
John Spelman, who produced the Norwegian DVD, yesterday insisted that passers-by had not been put at risk because friends of the skier had waned away members of the public immediately before the sunt took place.
He named the man as a Norwegian freestyle skier called Arild.
Saturday, March 31, 2007
Portable Splint for Extreme Sports Welds Itself Together
This portable plastic splint takes up a tiny space in a backpack but brings big relief, holding a broken limb together long enough to get medical help and providing soothing warmth in the meantime. The special plastic fuses itself together in about five minutes using the same chemical-reactive heat technology used in hand warmers.
Aimed at extreme sports enthusiasts such as snowboarders and skiers, the technology could offer a bit of comfort to those 450,000 wracked-up snow sports adventurers who are injured each year, many of whom sometimes have a long wait until they can get patched up in a proper hospital.
This idea might be great for ski patrol personnel to carry around, but what extreme sports participant would take along splints for broken bones? It could jinx the whole trip...
Aimed at extreme sports enthusiasts such as snowboarders and skiers, the technology could offer a bit of comfort to those 450,000 wracked-up snow sports adventurers who are injured each year, many of whom sometimes have a long wait until they can get patched up in a proper hospital.
This idea might be great for ski patrol personnel to carry around, but what extreme sports participant would take along splints for broken bones? It could jinx the whole trip...
Thursday, March 29, 2007
Bands and boards: Skate or Die Music Festival comes to Flanders in April
BY ELLEN S. WILKOWE
DAILY RECORD
More than 20 bands. Professional skateboard demonstrations. Goodies and gadgets for sale.
Welcome to the Skate or Die music and skateboarding festival.
The rockin' and rollin' kicks off April 21 at noon at the indoor Small Empire Skate Park in Flanders.
These were some of the reactions posted by area youths on the festival's Web site, www.myspace.com/skateordiefest:
n"Finally something to do besides hang out at Dunkin' Donuts."
n"I can't wait for the Skate or Die fest. "
n"Seems like a great festival. I'll see if I can talk my friends into checking it out."
This is the first festival produced by Payphone Productions, said owner and organizer Susanne Collins of Bedminster.
"I wanted a new venue and checked out the skate park and asked (the owner) if he did shows there," she said. "He said yes and I approached him about the festival."
Small Empire Skate Park opened in March 2006, owner David Yun said. Professional skateboard demonstrations and music concerts are all part of the park experience, he said.
Event coordinator Peter Kakourioti, also a guitarist with the band Reflective Insight, said he expects 600 to 800 attendees.
The lineup boasts national, regional and local acts, including Bed Light for Blue Eyes, Kiss Kiss, The Pilot, Crash Romeo, No Hollywood Ending and Mount Olive's own P.R.Y.D.E.
A battle of the bands landed some of musicians a spot at the festival, Collins said.
DAILY RECORD
More than 20 bands. Professional skateboard demonstrations. Goodies and gadgets for sale.
Welcome to the Skate or Die music and skateboarding festival.
The rockin' and rollin' kicks off April 21 at noon at the indoor Small Empire Skate Park in Flanders.
These were some of the reactions posted by area youths on the festival's Web site, www.myspace.com/skateordiefest:
n"Finally something to do besides hang out at Dunkin' Donuts."
n"I can't wait for the Skate or Die fest. "
n"Seems like a great festival. I'll see if I can talk my friends into checking it out."
This is the first festival produced by Payphone Productions, said owner and organizer Susanne Collins of Bedminster.
"I wanted a new venue and checked out the skate park and asked (the owner) if he did shows there," she said. "He said yes and I approached him about the festival."
Small Empire Skate Park opened in March 2006, owner David Yun said. Professional skateboard demonstrations and music concerts are all part of the park experience, he said.
Event coordinator Peter Kakourioti, also a guitarist with the band Reflective Insight, said he expects 600 to 800 attendees.
The lineup boasts national, regional and local acts, including Bed Light for Blue Eyes, Kiss Kiss, The Pilot, Crash Romeo, No Hollywood Ending and Mount Olive's own P.R.Y.D.E.
A battle of the bands landed some of musicians a spot at the festival, Collins said.
Wednesday, March 28, 2007
GUERNSEY is getting an extreme sports park.
After a 20-year battle, BMXers and skateboarders have won their fight for a venue to call their own. The Guernsey Extreme Sports Association has commissioned a £45,000 mobile skate park, which will move between different locations until a permanent site has been agreed with the Environment Department.
‘There is a site in the plans,’ said association chairman Deputy Mike O’Hara.‘
We had a site planned before but we had to abandon that after we received criticism about possible high noise levels. ‘We have looked into the possibility of another location but we will not announce it until we have had full approval.
‘The Liberation Day skate park will become a permanent skate park – the legacy of this will remain.’
The association proposed a skate park at the BMX track at Beau Sejour, but complaints by residents in the area halted its development. Before a site has been approved, the tennis court-sized structure will be placed on a trailer and moved to different locations and events.
Association member Jon Bisson said 6.6 tonnes of steel had been ordered to construct the park, which will be built in just five weeks by Turx Engineering.
‘It can be easily moved and deployed to a different location in several hours.
‘People don’t want a skate park in their back garden – now we have a situation where it can be moved from place to place until we can put it in a permanent location.’
Lee Stillwell, a former Channel Island skateboarding champion and director of Bonsai Wood Flooring, has sponsored the build of the facility.
‘I think we need to have more things in Guernsey for kids,’ said the 33-year-old.
‘Skateboarding and extreme sports at the moment is growing at an amazing rate but Guernsey seems so far behind the rest of the world.
‘We had a skateboard park at Beau Sejour 20 years ago and nothing has happened since. Having something in the long-term makes sense.
‘The park will keep them off streets, provide them with a group environment, it’s proactive and keeps them fit.’
PJ De La Mare, who has long-campaigned for a skate park at Beau Sejour, said youngsters who took part in extreme sports had got a bad reputation.
‘I’m not saying that all kids that do extreme sports are trouble – they just enjoy the adrenaline rush. By providing them with a permanent facility like this, they will have somewhere to exert all their energy.’
The Guernsey Sports Commission has contributed considerable funds towards the development of the skate park.
‘There is a site in the plans,’ said association chairman Deputy Mike O’Hara.‘
We had a site planned before but we had to abandon that after we received criticism about possible high noise levels. ‘We have looked into the possibility of another location but we will not announce it until we have had full approval.
‘The Liberation Day skate park will become a permanent skate park – the legacy of this will remain.’
The association proposed a skate park at the BMX track at Beau Sejour, but complaints by residents in the area halted its development. Before a site has been approved, the tennis court-sized structure will be placed on a trailer and moved to different locations and events.
Association member Jon Bisson said 6.6 tonnes of steel had been ordered to construct the park, which will be built in just five weeks by Turx Engineering.
‘It can be easily moved and deployed to a different location in several hours.
‘People don’t want a skate park in their back garden – now we have a situation where it can be moved from place to place until we can put it in a permanent location.’
Lee Stillwell, a former Channel Island skateboarding champion and director of Bonsai Wood Flooring, has sponsored the build of the facility.
‘I think we need to have more things in Guernsey for kids,’ said the 33-year-old.
‘Skateboarding and extreme sports at the moment is growing at an amazing rate but Guernsey seems so far behind the rest of the world.
‘We had a skateboard park at Beau Sejour 20 years ago and nothing has happened since. Having something in the long-term makes sense.
‘The park will keep them off streets, provide them with a group environment, it’s proactive and keeps them fit.’
PJ De La Mare, who has long-campaigned for a skate park at Beau Sejour, said youngsters who took part in extreme sports had got a bad reputation.
‘I’m not saying that all kids that do extreme sports are trouble – they just enjoy the adrenaline rush. By providing them with a permanent facility like this, they will have somewhere to exert all their energy.’
The Guernsey Sports Commission has contributed considerable funds towards the development of the skate park.
Tuesday, March 27, 2007
Chasing the adrenalin dragon
It’s amazing what some people will do for kicks. Whether it be leaping off the edge of a nauseatingly high cliff, or coming face-to-face with a ravenous great-white shark, the hunt for the elusive adrenalin rush is more common now than ever before.
AdvertisementSo, to what lengths will these junkies go to get their rocks off? And if you’re keen to experience the thrill of the adrenalin rush, how far are you prepared to push your body and mind for the ultimate thrill?
Extreme sports have gained major popularity over the past decade, and are generally accepted as the way to go if you’re looking for an intense brush with possible death. Bungee jumping, sky diving, BASE jumping, roller coasters and white water rafting are all popular extreme sports designed to push your fears to the very edge.
But before you plunge off a bridge or hurtle down a winding metal track at eye-drying speeds, do your research. Reading on from here would be a good start.
Three, two, one, bungee!
The origin of this gravity-defying sport is an interesting one, and is thought to have originated from a traditional test of courage performed by the young men of Pentecost Island in Vanuatu. In this tradition, they would jump from boggling heights with nothing more than vines tied to their ankles to keep them from meeting their maker.
These days you get more than just a shrivelled branch for a life-line. Bungee chords are engineered under strict conditions, and allow you to leap off high obstacles without ending up a splat on the proverbial pavement. The elastic material stretches and absorbs the energy of your descent, giving you a short but intense free-fall.
And if you’ve been thinking about bungee jumping, our advice is to just go and do it. As far as extreme sports goes, it is exceptionally safe, relatively inexpensive and comes in at a thrilling three out of five on the rush-o-meter.
Sky diving
Humans have been jumping out of aeroplanes since the day those crazy brothers got their rickety machine off the ground. A serious step up from bungee jumping, sky divers rely solely on their equipment to make it back to solid ground alive. One wrongly packed chute, or badly timed release will result in a sudden and messy death.
Why do people hurl themselves from planes? Because it’s the closest you’ll ever get to flight. But it’s not a once-off experience like bungee jumping. You’ll need to get a license to become a freefall jumper, and this requires extensive training and static-line jumps.
But no matter your level of skill, you’ll still find yourself hurtling towards the earth at breakneck speeds, giving this death-defying sport a face-squelching four on the rush-o-meter.
But while it’s probably the biggest rush you can get, it doesn’t come cheap. The equipment needed is specialist and expensive, and that hasn’t even covered the training costs. But if you’ve got the cash and are looking for that ultimate rush, we say go for it.
BASE jumping
Building, Antenna (any uninhabited aerial tower), Span (bridges, domes and arches), Earth (a natural cliff or formation). These are the principles of this extreme sport, and if you’re a BASE jumper, any of the above are your launch platforms. It’s sky diving, but with a notoriously dangerous twist.
Most BASE jumps occur below 600m off static objects, the most dangerous of which being skyscrapers and antenna’s which can clock in at below 450m, and can be as low as 100m. This results in an extremely short freefall, and a complete reliance on specialised equipment and skill.
Once you’ve hurled yourself off a building, bridge cliff and antenna, you can apply for your very own BASE number – the goal of most jumpers. But this isn’t to say that it’s an every-man’s sport. It’s expensive, often illegal and highly dangerous, but its very existence warrants its growing popularity.
There is no room for error. A couple of seconds is all you have to get your parachute out, and if you don’t, you’ve got an unpleasant meeting with a sidewalk to look forward to. BASE jumping is only recommended for the rigorously trained and somewhat crazy adrenaline junkie, rating in at a death-defying five on the rush-o-meter.
White water rafting
If flying towards the earth at terminal velocity isn’t your cup of tea, getting wet might be your best option. How does plunging down a raging river with little more than a life-jacket, helmet and plastic ore sound?
White water rafting has picked up in popularity over the past fifteen years, and is an excellent extreme group activity. There is a certain element of luck to the sport - created by the unpredictability of the river your team chooses to take on - and that’s where the thrill lies.
Rapids and rough water are graded from 1 – 6, the highest recommended only for seasoned veterans. While there are fatalities and injuries, thousands of people enjoy rafting experiences every year as technology improves, and expertise grows.
A common misconception is made that rafting is similar to an amusement park ride. This is very far from the truth, as the only protection you have on the water is the inflatable craft below you, and your safety equipment. With a high danger rating, this sport gets a fearful four on the rush-o-meter.
Roller coasters
Strapping yourself into a seat and hurtling around a screeching track at up to 200km/h is one of the most popular activities of many adrenalin-seeking enthusiasts. It’s also one of the safest ways to get your heart racing with a couple of bellowing screams to boot.
Roller coasters come in all shapes and sizes, and are generally made out of either wood or steel. As technology has improved, so has track design, which now incorporates unbelievable loops, twirls, twists accompanied by chest-crushing speeds - a vast improvement from the boring tracks of the early 20th century.
Most roller coasters rely mostly on kinetic energy that is created after the first major descent of the cart, which can be from a height of up to 329m (the height of ‘The High Roller’ in Las Vegas, the tallest roller coaster in the world), and can reach speeds of up to 204km/h.
It’s a safe, fun and relatively cheap thrill, and you’ll find a coaster at most major theme parks. Recommended for the less courageous, and for beginners of adrenalin-rush enjoyment, roller coaster riding gets a timid 2 on the rush-o-meter.
And for the faintest of hearts
If you’re ready to experience the thrills of adrenalin, but are still a bit scared to try any of the above, there are some more gentle (yet thrilling) activities that’ll get your blood flowing.
Hot-air balloon flights have taken off across the globe as a popular adventure for the more faint of heart. Relying on the skill of the pilot, and at the mercy of the winds, this might be a great adventure for your somewhat fearful mother-in-law, and scores a gentle one on the rush-o-meter.
What does adrenalin do to the body?
Adrenalin is released from adrenal glands found on top of your kidneys. It’s a hormone that is released to prepare your body and mind for a dangerous situation, increasing your heart-rate, upping your senses and raising your awareness.
It also diverts blood-flow from important areas of your brain and internal organs to your major muscles and limbs, and prepares you for escape.
An adrenalin rush is the sudden and massive release of adrenalin throughout your body. It may take a couple of seconds to reach your brain, but once it does, you’ll know about it.
This rush can induce some strange feelings, such as euphoria, a sense of slow motion and even a complete loss of pain. Combine these with its natural effects, and you’ve got a weird sensation to deal with, one which many find unpleasant, and others relish.
The psyche of an adrenalin junkie
An adrenalin rush for many is a thrilling and addictive experience. The hormone induces emotions and feelings that would otherwise never be experienced. From tunnel vision to the brightening of colours and enhancement of sounds, many crave the excitement of the rush.
For many who live bland and repetitive lives, jumping out of a plane or spending weekends racing down dangerous rivers is an escape from the mundane – it makes them feel alive.
Chasing the adrenalin dragon is one way to keep life exciting and spontaneous, and is something many cannot live without.
(Warren Vonk, Health24)
AdvertisementSo, to what lengths will these junkies go to get their rocks off? And if you’re keen to experience the thrill of the adrenalin rush, how far are you prepared to push your body and mind for the ultimate thrill?
Extreme sports have gained major popularity over the past decade, and are generally accepted as the way to go if you’re looking for an intense brush with possible death. Bungee jumping, sky diving, BASE jumping, roller coasters and white water rafting are all popular extreme sports designed to push your fears to the very edge.
But before you plunge off a bridge or hurtle down a winding metal track at eye-drying speeds, do your research. Reading on from here would be a good start.
Three, two, one, bungee!
The origin of this gravity-defying sport is an interesting one, and is thought to have originated from a traditional test of courage performed by the young men of Pentecost Island in Vanuatu. In this tradition, they would jump from boggling heights with nothing more than vines tied to their ankles to keep them from meeting their maker.
These days you get more than just a shrivelled branch for a life-line. Bungee chords are engineered under strict conditions, and allow you to leap off high obstacles without ending up a splat on the proverbial pavement. The elastic material stretches and absorbs the energy of your descent, giving you a short but intense free-fall.
And if you’ve been thinking about bungee jumping, our advice is to just go and do it. As far as extreme sports goes, it is exceptionally safe, relatively inexpensive and comes in at a thrilling three out of five on the rush-o-meter.
Sky diving
Humans have been jumping out of aeroplanes since the day those crazy brothers got their rickety machine off the ground. A serious step up from bungee jumping, sky divers rely solely on their equipment to make it back to solid ground alive. One wrongly packed chute, or badly timed release will result in a sudden and messy death.
Why do people hurl themselves from planes? Because it’s the closest you’ll ever get to flight. But it’s not a once-off experience like bungee jumping. You’ll need to get a license to become a freefall jumper, and this requires extensive training and static-line jumps.
But no matter your level of skill, you’ll still find yourself hurtling towards the earth at breakneck speeds, giving this death-defying sport a face-squelching four on the rush-o-meter.
But while it’s probably the biggest rush you can get, it doesn’t come cheap. The equipment needed is specialist and expensive, and that hasn’t even covered the training costs. But if you’ve got the cash and are looking for that ultimate rush, we say go for it.
BASE jumping
Building, Antenna (any uninhabited aerial tower), Span (bridges, domes and arches), Earth (a natural cliff or formation). These are the principles of this extreme sport, and if you’re a BASE jumper, any of the above are your launch platforms. It’s sky diving, but with a notoriously dangerous twist.
Most BASE jumps occur below 600m off static objects, the most dangerous of which being skyscrapers and antenna’s which can clock in at below 450m, and can be as low as 100m. This results in an extremely short freefall, and a complete reliance on specialised equipment and skill.
Once you’ve hurled yourself off a building, bridge cliff and antenna, you can apply for your very own BASE number – the goal of most jumpers. But this isn’t to say that it’s an every-man’s sport. It’s expensive, often illegal and highly dangerous, but its very existence warrants its growing popularity.
There is no room for error. A couple of seconds is all you have to get your parachute out, and if you don’t, you’ve got an unpleasant meeting with a sidewalk to look forward to. BASE jumping is only recommended for the rigorously trained and somewhat crazy adrenaline junkie, rating in at a death-defying five on the rush-o-meter.
White water rafting
If flying towards the earth at terminal velocity isn’t your cup of tea, getting wet might be your best option. How does plunging down a raging river with little more than a life-jacket, helmet and plastic ore sound?
White water rafting has picked up in popularity over the past fifteen years, and is an excellent extreme group activity. There is a certain element of luck to the sport - created by the unpredictability of the river your team chooses to take on - and that’s where the thrill lies.
Rapids and rough water are graded from 1 – 6, the highest recommended only for seasoned veterans. While there are fatalities and injuries, thousands of people enjoy rafting experiences every year as technology improves, and expertise grows.
A common misconception is made that rafting is similar to an amusement park ride. This is very far from the truth, as the only protection you have on the water is the inflatable craft below you, and your safety equipment. With a high danger rating, this sport gets a fearful four on the rush-o-meter.
Roller coasters
Strapping yourself into a seat and hurtling around a screeching track at up to 200km/h is one of the most popular activities of many adrenalin-seeking enthusiasts. It’s also one of the safest ways to get your heart racing with a couple of bellowing screams to boot.
Roller coasters come in all shapes and sizes, and are generally made out of either wood or steel. As technology has improved, so has track design, which now incorporates unbelievable loops, twirls, twists accompanied by chest-crushing speeds - a vast improvement from the boring tracks of the early 20th century.
Most roller coasters rely mostly on kinetic energy that is created after the first major descent of the cart, which can be from a height of up to 329m (the height of ‘The High Roller’ in Las Vegas, the tallest roller coaster in the world), and can reach speeds of up to 204km/h.
It’s a safe, fun and relatively cheap thrill, and you’ll find a coaster at most major theme parks. Recommended for the less courageous, and for beginners of adrenalin-rush enjoyment, roller coaster riding gets a timid 2 on the rush-o-meter.
And for the faintest of hearts
If you’re ready to experience the thrills of adrenalin, but are still a bit scared to try any of the above, there are some more gentle (yet thrilling) activities that’ll get your blood flowing.
Hot-air balloon flights have taken off across the globe as a popular adventure for the more faint of heart. Relying on the skill of the pilot, and at the mercy of the winds, this might be a great adventure for your somewhat fearful mother-in-law, and scores a gentle one on the rush-o-meter.
What does adrenalin do to the body?
Adrenalin is released from adrenal glands found on top of your kidneys. It’s a hormone that is released to prepare your body and mind for a dangerous situation, increasing your heart-rate, upping your senses and raising your awareness.
It also diverts blood-flow from important areas of your brain and internal organs to your major muscles and limbs, and prepares you for escape.
An adrenalin rush is the sudden and massive release of adrenalin throughout your body. It may take a couple of seconds to reach your brain, but once it does, you’ll know about it.
This rush can induce some strange feelings, such as euphoria, a sense of slow motion and even a complete loss of pain. Combine these with its natural effects, and you’ve got a weird sensation to deal with, one which many find unpleasant, and others relish.
The psyche of an adrenalin junkie
An adrenalin rush for many is a thrilling and addictive experience. The hormone induces emotions and feelings that would otherwise never be experienced. From tunnel vision to the brightening of colours and enhancement of sounds, many crave the excitement of the rush.
For many who live bland and repetitive lives, jumping out of a plane or spending weekends racing down dangerous rivers is an escape from the mundane – it makes them feel alive.
Chasing the adrenalin dragon is one way to keep life exciting and spontaneous, and is something many cannot live without.
(Warren Vonk, Health24)
Wednesday, March 21, 2007
National Bike Show 2007
You might have thought snakeboarding was a thing of the past… well think again kids, it’s morphed into streetboarding and we’ve just hosted the World Championships right here in the UK!
The Y2SK8 skatepark in Peterborough was run amok when 100 of the world’s finest stopped by to compete for the biggest title of them all.
Those numbers were drastically whittled down though until just 10 guys remained to seal their place in the finals.
The mini ramp comp went off first and the level of riding was actually awesome, the height they get on those things is unbelievable, even though it's attached to their feet.
Max Anderson and Piotr Dzieciolowski both rocked near flawless runs but they were edged out by Max Maier when he nailed a perfect 900. Come on, that's pretty impressive.
In vert, favorite Sergi Nicolas, a favourite, had crashed out in practice so the contest was blown wide open. Piotr was hucking it soundly again but he had to be content with third as Ingo Forer steamed into second with a well crafted run.
But no-one was going to take this title away from Gabi Munoz; last year he finished at the bottom of the heap but he’d put in the hard yards since then and he stormed it with back-to-back tricks including a huge switch backflip. Street was the contest everyone had been waiting for and it went off with a bang. Brinton Gunderson might be a five-time champion but he took third here because Chris Kamm and Max Anderson were on fire.
Chris left the other guys rubbing their eyes in disbelief when he bluntsided the entire kinked rail and everyone thought he had it in the bag until Max went out and landed a misty 720 in a massive run which ended with a sweet gap 180 switch backside feeble on the rail.
The Y2SK8 skatepark in Peterborough was run amok when 100 of the world’s finest stopped by to compete for the biggest title of them all.
Those numbers were drastically whittled down though until just 10 guys remained to seal their place in the finals.
The mini ramp comp went off first and the level of riding was actually awesome, the height they get on those things is unbelievable, even though it's attached to their feet.
Max Anderson and Piotr Dzieciolowski both rocked near flawless runs but they were edged out by Max Maier when he nailed a perfect 900. Come on, that's pretty impressive.
In vert, favorite Sergi Nicolas, a favourite, had crashed out in practice so the contest was blown wide open. Piotr was hucking it soundly again but he had to be content with third as Ingo Forer steamed into second with a well crafted run.
But no-one was going to take this title away from Gabi Munoz; last year he finished at the bottom of the heap but he’d put in the hard yards since then and he stormed it with back-to-back tricks including a huge switch backflip. Street was the contest everyone had been waiting for and it went off with a bang. Brinton Gunderson might be a five-time champion but he took third here because Chris Kamm and Max Anderson were on fire.
Chris left the other guys rubbing their eyes in disbelief when he bluntsided the entire kinked rail and everyone thought he had it in the bag until Max went out and landed a misty 720 in a massive run which ended with a sweet gap 180 switch backside feeble on the rail.
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
Rock climbing in Arkansas
Amazing sport climbing can be found at Horseshoe Canyon Ranch
If you're looking for tons of moderate, well-bolted, super-fun sport climbs look no further than, of all places, a dude ranch in the heart of Arkansas.
Cowboys on horseback, nightly rodeo displays and goats being herded by an assortment of dogs are just some of the things that make this a truly unique climbing destination. Horseshoe Canyon Ranch is in a valley, surrounded on three sides by a cliff in the shape of a horseshoe, hence the name. The privately owned 350 acres has been in the same family for generations and has existed in many different forms over the years. It is currently a working horse ranch/resort that attracts people from all over the world - from families on vacation to business people on retreats - who are looking for an authentic, albeit somewhat pampered, Wild West experience.
As far as climbing goes, the owner started allowing access to the cliff to what was at first a small group of mostly local climbers. But as word spread and more and more climbers started showing up, the owner, increasingly worried about accidents, made a decision: if climbers wanted to climb, they would climb safely. He hired an experienced climber to bolt the routes with safety, not esthetics, in mind. As a result, there are over 300 routes varying in difficulty, but consistently offering some of the safest climbing anywhere.
Most routes are in the 5.6-5.12 range making it the perfect place for those wanting to start leading and for more experienced climbers who will love being able to bang off climb after climb after climb. You could easily fit in 20 or more climbs in one day, as there are so many so close together. The rock is sandstone with lots of pockets, jugs and great cracks. There are also some amazing boulder problems on the property including the famous "Witness the Fitness" put up by none other than Chris Sharma and rated (by others, of course) at least V14.
Camping is allowed although there are only 15 sites and it's hard to find an even patch of ground or a bit of shade to escape the sun. That brings up a very important point: do not go in spring or summer as it can get unbearably hot in Arkansas. We're talking an unrelenting, insanity-inducing heat that makes it difficult to climb as your hands can't grip the rock and dehydration can become an issue. It's best to go in the early spring or late fall and it even stays warm enough to climb in the winter.
Back to camping. The fee is $5 a day for camping (and $5 for climbing), which is appropriately low as you don't get much. Facilities include a rather basic outhouse and there are no showers (although there is a rumour that the owner will be building better facilities to accommodate the ever growing number of climber/campers). Fully serviced cabins are available but pricey. Your best bet is to camp at one of the many National Park Services campgrounds nearby. The camping is better and some have shower facilities. But best of all, you can cool off after a day of climbing in the gorgeous Buffalo National River which is lined by stunning limestone rock faces. Enjoy with your eyes only - climbing is not allowed.
One final tip is to stock up on any alcoholic refreshments you might need as the ranch is in a dry county and the nearest liquor store is about a half hour drive away.
You could spend a week at Horseshoe Canyon and still not climb all its routes and there are more going up all the time. As fantastic as the climbing is, there are so many other enjoyable things about this climbing destination. There are the horses roaming the property freely, often stopping to eat grass just a few feet away from where you're belaying. There is also the gorgeous scenery and friendly, southern charm.
So for your next climbing holiday, mosey on over to Horseshoe Canyon Ranch and satisfy both the climber and cowboy in you.
If you're looking for tons of moderate, well-bolted, super-fun sport climbs look no further than, of all places, a dude ranch in the heart of Arkansas.
Cowboys on horseback, nightly rodeo displays and goats being herded by an assortment of dogs are just some of the things that make this a truly unique climbing destination. Horseshoe Canyon Ranch is in a valley, surrounded on three sides by a cliff in the shape of a horseshoe, hence the name. The privately owned 350 acres has been in the same family for generations and has existed in many different forms over the years. It is currently a working horse ranch/resort that attracts people from all over the world - from families on vacation to business people on retreats - who are looking for an authentic, albeit somewhat pampered, Wild West experience.
As far as climbing goes, the owner started allowing access to the cliff to what was at first a small group of mostly local climbers. But as word spread and more and more climbers started showing up, the owner, increasingly worried about accidents, made a decision: if climbers wanted to climb, they would climb safely. He hired an experienced climber to bolt the routes with safety, not esthetics, in mind. As a result, there are over 300 routes varying in difficulty, but consistently offering some of the safest climbing anywhere.
Most routes are in the 5.6-5.12 range making it the perfect place for those wanting to start leading and for more experienced climbers who will love being able to bang off climb after climb after climb. You could easily fit in 20 or more climbs in one day, as there are so many so close together. The rock is sandstone with lots of pockets, jugs and great cracks. There are also some amazing boulder problems on the property including the famous "Witness the Fitness" put up by none other than Chris Sharma and rated (by others, of course) at least V14.
Camping is allowed although there are only 15 sites and it's hard to find an even patch of ground or a bit of shade to escape the sun. That brings up a very important point: do not go in spring or summer as it can get unbearably hot in Arkansas. We're talking an unrelenting, insanity-inducing heat that makes it difficult to climb as your hands can't grip the rock and dehydration can become an issue. It's best to go in the early spring or late fall and it even stays warm enough to climb in the winter.
Back to camping. The fee is $5 a day for camping (and $5 for climbing), which is appropriately low as you don't get much. Facilities include a rather basic outhouse and there are no showers (although there is a rumour that the owner will be building better facilities to accommodate the ever growing number of climber/campers). Fully serviced cabins are available but pricey. Your best bet is to camp at one of the many National Park Services campgrounds nearby. The camping is better and some have shower facilities. But best of all, you can cool off after a day of climbing in the gorgeous Buffalo National River which is lined by stunning limestone rock faces. Enjoy with your eyes only - climbing is not allowed.
One final tip is to stock up on any alcoholic refreshments you might need as the ranch is in a dry county and the nearest liquor store is about a half hour drive away.
You could spend a week at Horseshoe Canyon and still not climb all its routes and there are more going up all the time. As fantastic as the climbing is, there are so many other enjoyable things about this climbing destination. There are the horses roaming the property freely, often stopping to eat grass just a few feet away from where you're belaying. There is also the gorgeous scenery and friendly, southern charm.
So for your next climbing holiday, mosey on over to Horseshoe Canyon Ranch and satisfy both the climber and cowboy in you.
Sunday, March 18, 2007
the global assault
This little whipper snapper has been making grown skaters weep uncontrollably recently as he pulls off the most outstanding tricks that others can only dream of doing. Git.
During the competition Nyjah pulled off some huge tricks including a huge backside five-o down a gerzillion stair rail and more flip tricks that a professional pancake maker during the final of a toss off.
Keep and eye open for the dreaded wonder as he'll be devasting skating with massive displays of skill.
The of the most ridiculously talented young skaters out there, Sheckler absolutely nailed each and every run with a combination of super big airs and mind rottingly good tech stuff.
Not only does this guy skate like a demon, but it has been revealed recently that he has already made over $1 million. The girls like him too. He has it all. Jealous. Much.
Zero rider and out and out hardcore stomper of greatest, Chris Cole was there to represent for the big rail fans and didn't dissapoint.
He is no one trick pony though and when the flippery stuff was needed, Cole was there to do huge backside flips, 360 flips and anything else that would make you vomit with envy. Awesome stuff.
During the competition Nyjah pulled off some huge tricks including a huge backside five-o down a gerzillion stair rail and more flip tricks that a professional pancake maker during the final of a toss off.
Keep and eye open for the dreaded wonder as he'll be devasting skating with massive displays of skill.
The of the most ridiculously talented young skaters out there, Sheckler absolutely nailed each and every run with a combination of super big airs and mind rottingly good tech stuff.
Not only does this guy skate like a demon, but it has been revealed recently that he has already made over $1 million. The girls like him too. He has it all. Jealous. Much.
Zero rider and out and out hardcore stomper of greatest, Chris Cole was there to represent for the big rail fans and didn't dissapoint.
He is no one trick pony though and when the flippery stuff was needed, Cole was there to do huge backside flips, 360 flips and anything else that would make you vomit with envy. Awesome stuff.
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