Just a reminder to everyone – Connecticut Tree Climbing Competition will be held next Saturday, May 7th, at Colt Park in Hartford.
For climbers and volunteers, the day starts early, at 7 am. For everyone else, we hope to get the competition rolling by about 8 am. There is already close to a full roster of competitors – 27 at this point – that will likely fill by the time the day begins on Saturday. It should be another great and exciting CTPA climbing competition.
There is no charge for attendance and parking is free. Attendees are only encouraged to bring their own food and refreshments, along with perhaps a blanket to sit on.
For those who have not yet attended a CTCC, it is well-worth the time spent. The preliminary competition begins in the morning and usually runs until the early afternoon. In the preliminary events, each of the climbers take at turn at each of the skill events:
- Secured Footlock
- Throwline Accuracy
- Belayed Speed Climb
- Work Climb
- Aerial Rescue
Competitors are formed into groups. Throughout the preliminary events, each group circulates among the five events until all competitors have completed the circuit. At that point, the scores of the individual climbers totaled. The top three men and women climbers are then invited to participate in the Master’s Challenge.
Throughout the day, the skill, intelligence and athleticism of Connecticut’s tree care professionals, as well as those climbers from other states, is on display, as is their attention to safety, concern for the profession and respect for one another. The word ‘camaraderie’ is illustrated better at this event than at practically any other event one could mention. Climbers support climbers, and the attendees support climbers, in a way to shows a true passion for what tree climbing and tree care is all about.
It is a great thing to witness. You should check it out.
