As a student of Virginia Commonwealth University, if you have not been to the Cary Street Gym, go. If you have been and you haven’t seen the enormous rock climbing wall in the center, open your eyes… to new possibilities!! The rock wall is managed by the Outdoor Adventure Program, which run by VCU students. Sound like something you’d be interested in running? If you want to check out their Leadership Program, stop by the office at 130 S. Linden Street for available openings.
If you’re a beginning wall climber, or you have any interest at all, OAP hosts a climbing skill clinic Monday through Friday, with varying hours. Signing up in advance is suggested! This clinic offers help with sport climbing, traditional climbing, anchor building, aid climbing, top rope rescue, multi pitch transitions, climbing technique, and rappelling. Climbers of all abilities are welcome. Along with students, Recreation Sports members and their guests can climb with the supervision and belaying of the climbing wall staff. If you don’t have your own kit, all necessary climbing equipment is available to be checked out for free for use at the wall. Keep in mind this is a chalk free climbing facility!
Virginia Commonwealth University held it’s fourth annual rock climbing wall competition in February earlier this year. They invite climbers from East Carolina University, Virginia Commonwealth University, Old Dominion University and Duke University to a friendly timed competition on their rock wall in the Cary Street Gym. There are at least 35 different climbs (colored paths) with varying levels of difficulty on the boulder/climbing wall. Climbers compete in all three competitions are able to win the series, even if you don’t win an individual competition. Fun, supportive and a rocking good time for beginner climbers through those that crank hard. There’s music and food provided, as well as awesome prizes for winning climbers!
With all that VCU has to offer students, the recreational sports programs through the Outdoor Adventure Program, especially in the summer, are worth your while! FREE outdoor activities also include Friday rafting trips on the James River, as well as caving and hiking in the Blue Ridge mountains! Keep cool this summer and take a break from the hot, hot city!
Check out the 2016 Cary St. Crux YouTube video below:
Outdoor Adventure Program 