Boating Vs. Climbing?

I really enjoy boating. I really enjoy climbing. Sometimes I pray for rain, sometimes I pray for sun.

For the last few weeks the sun has been shining and I’ve wanted the rain, the River Leven is the lowest I’ve seen it since moving to the Lakes and I’ve even resorted to a trip to Teesside. However, I’ve also managed lots of climbing with some trips to Dow Crag, some local single pitch stuff and two trips back to Yorkshire to climb in God’s own county at some of my old haunts including Eastby, Rylstone and Simon’s Seat.

Tom Woodstone boudering the start of and She was, E3 6a **, Simon's Seat. Pic NW.

Jonny Briggs on a tough unknown boulder problem, Simon's Seat. Pic NW

 

Andrew Bancroft, The Struggler, VS 5a, Eastby Crag. Pic NW.

 

Tom Woodstone leading the superb Arete Direct, VS 4c ***, Simon's Seat. Pic NW

 

Jonny Briggs on the thuggish crack of Monument Crack, E1 5b ***, Rylstone. Pic NW

But all the while, I’ve secretly wanted some rain to go boating, especially with a trip away looming. Last night it chucked it down, but the rivers are still low, the rock is now damp and I am praying for the sun again! Both sports are obsessive and my love for them increases or decreases depending on the weather. Just my luck I’m in climbing mode when it’s wet, and boating mode when it’s dry!

See you on the river (or crag…)

Tom

 

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