The next Lukenya climbing weekend is coming up on August 31 to Sept 1. We have good turn outs for this event and try to hold them regularly. Last time we had top ropes for the beginners and opportunities to help more advanced climbers build anchors, learn repel and try lead climbing.We want to encourage climbers of all levels to come down. There will be top ropes set up for beginners (no previous experience needed and all gear needed is provided.
This is a two day event that will begin on Saturday at 10 AM. In the evening, we will go up to the top and camp with more climbing on Sunday.
For the intermediate climbers, we will focus on skills to put up top ropes including knowing the gear and how put up anchors. Those interested can come out early on Saturday and help set the top ropes. On Sunday, we will have session dedicated to building and evaluating anchors. This will include the basics of gear placement and use of natural features for anchors.
For those coming for the day, they should bring a hat, sun screen, lunch and a couple liters of water. The club can provide all climbing gear and will have it at Lukneya. This includes shoes in many sizes, harnesses, etc. For those camping, you will need to bring the full range of camping gear or arrange to share with others.
Those interested who can provide rides, please send an E-mail saying when you plan to drive down and return. Those needing a ride should contact those offering rides. If you don’t find a ride by Thursday, the 13th, send me a message and I will try to sort it out.
Directions:
Lukenya is located along the Mombasa Rd on the left as you head towards Mombasa. It is between the turn to Athi River and the turn to Machakos. It is a hill with a number of rock faces just to the side of the road. It is 36.6 from the Nyayo roundabout to the left hand turn to Lukenya Academy. Note the school is called ACADEMY and this turn is after the Lukenya craig clearly visible from the road on the left. This turn is also just after the new cement factory on the right. Do not turn at any schools, (Lukenya) or otherwise, that don’t call them selves an academy.
I have attached a map of the Lukenya area. Use the access road labeled ‘new access track’ on the map. This means you must pass through the Lukenya Academy gate. There should be an askari and people around to direct you to the MCK climbing area.
We will meet at the South picnic tree.
Fees:
There is a 300 Ksh fee for gear, if you use the clubs personal gear (shoes, harness and helmet). It doesn’t matter how much gear you use or if it is for one or two days, its just 300 Ksh. These is no charge if you have your personal gear for using the shared gear like ropes or the anchor building. There is a 400 Ksh fee for each non-member per day for non-members. Alternately, you can join the club. There is an option for temporary three month memberships for those around for only a couple months. For campers, we will need to share the cost of the askari between us.
Ok. If you know of anyone I have missed out, let me know. If you have any questions, let me know.
Camping: If you are planning to camp, let me know. You should bring a tent, sleeping bag and all you need for cooking, etc. its best to try and for small groups to share cooking, etc. There is no fee for camping, but have to hire two guards from the police post. This cost 6,000 KSH and we share this cost between all those camping.
Questions: Contact Jeff
