Spartan Summit 2018
The Kaplan Center was busy last Saturday, as the 20th Annual Spartan Summit Climbing Competition drew climbers of all skill levels to see if they could conquer the facility’s three-story climbing wall. Some were there for the glory, and some were there for… well, more individual reasons.
“I just really want a hat,” says junior Hannah Smart, referring to one of the many prizes donated for the event. “I’m a person of simple needs. And I enjoy climbing, so it’s a two-in-one deal.”
Smart also likes the fitness value of climbing.
“It’s like a full-body workout,” she says. “You use muscles that you can’t use any other way.”
Senior Aaron Denton likened climbing to a game of vertical chess, with the wall as your opponent.
“I enjoy the problem-solving aspect and planning your next move,” he said. Denton was introduced to rock climbing through a class at UNCG that’s part of the kinesiology program. “I like the class, so I thought I’d come and push myself a little further.”
Samantha Gaillard, who works for the Recreation & Wellness Department’s Outdoors Adventures program, says that the climbing wall has become a main attraction in the building.
“Every week we get more people coming in (to climb),” she says.
Check out the Climbing Wall section of our website to learn more about our climbing options and read more about the Spartan Summit.
About Outdoor Adventures
Outdoor Adventures is located on the lower level of the Kaplan Center and is open 7-days a week. The friendly staff can help climbers of all skill level learn how to climb, or provide guidance on improving their techniques. For more dedicated climbers, consider joining theCliffhangers, UNCG’s rock climbing club. In additionto climbing, OA offers various adventure trips and has a Rental & Resource Center to help you venture out on your own.
