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RC Extreme program provides outdoor challenges
We began this semester with a high-ropes course. Sixty-five feet up in the air, a climbing harness may keep you safe, but it doesn’t quite eliminate the terror. Rather than heckling, RCXers cheered one another on in the daunting task of climbing up poles and rope nets, balancing on swaying lumber or negotiating serpentine rope ladders swinging wildly in midair. Our rafting trip down the James was also a delight and a challenge, especially when I was ejected into the river unexpectedly at Hollywood rapids. The guides were very knowledgeable about the river ecosystem and local Richmond history, as well as the nuances of staying in the boat—nuances I obviously missed. In an event promoted by the Center for Civic Engagement, RCXers Lee Bockus, Geoff Cox, Josh Doherty, Steve Horvath, Ryan Manion, Blake Ramsby, Adam Wells, Jesse Kedy and Graham Eng-Wilmot were joined by Sierra Club members Nina Bhattacharyya, Carolyn Myers and Aaron Lee to repair a section of the “Buttermilk West” trail off Riverside Drive. The heavy work of passing 30-pound chunks of “riprap” rock down the hill necessitated our cooperation. This team effort was successful partly due to the excellence of our group, but also because of the expert guidance and inspiration of Nate Burrell and Mr. Bruce, who help Parks Manager Ralph White maintain 500-plus acres of parkland. Most recently, over fall break, Blake Ramsby, Ryan Corken and I went backpacking in the beautiful but rugged Ramsey’s Draft Wilderness Area west of Staunton, an area known for its primitive, pristine state. Our 16 crossings of the draft (creek) and the challenges of the unmarked trail were ultimately rewarded by our grassy, deer-worn campsite on Hardscrabble Knob as well as the spectacular fall colors visible the next day from Shenandoah Mountain. And there are more trails ahead… . —Lee Carleton, instructor of English |
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The University is well known for its academics, but for 20 firstyear
men, Richmond also offers a physical challenge in the RC
Extreme program. RCXers go on a variety of outdoor trips and
service projects that challenge the body as well as the spirit,
contributing to a holistic and inspiring educational experience.