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BMC seminar Back On Top: Rebuilding your student club post-pandemic

BMC seminar Back on top :

This evening I attended the above on line conference run by the BMC. My role was as an observer on behalf of the Youth and Development Group ( YDG ) I am part of, for The British Caving Association ( BCA ) .

The workshop really highlighted the difficulties university clubs are facing in view of retaining members, bringing new members on board and preventing a whole range of skill loss due to C19.

Great idea by the BMC to organise this event, as one thing that was very apparent, club reps on the call really appreciated the opportunity to speak to others in similar circumstances and share their thoughts and ideas. Those clubs attending now have a range of ideas to move forward with.

My next move is to write a summary report for the YDG and then see how we can apply some of the points raised this evening via the BCA.

CNCC AGM

Saturday 22nd March

Club meetings are not everyones cup of tea. However, they are key aspect of keeping various outdoor sports such as caving, climbing and mountaineering, not only moving forward, but ensuring they are more accessible to all.

The Council for Northern Caving Clubs does just that. I have found it a great association to be part of and one who are actively supporting cavers from all overt UK and many caving clubs in the North of England. One key aspect of the CNCC is looking after access to caves in Yorkshire, without this the caving community would be much worse off.

I represent the CNCC on the Britsh Caving Association ( BCA ) Equipment and Technical Group. All members work and offer their time voluntary for the CNNC, mainly due to their passion of the sport.

Todays meeting was quite lively at times, and a whole range of topics got discussed and much progress made, which is how it should be in my view. Opinions shared and progress made.

For details of the CNCC, the work they do on behalf of cavers and minutes of their meetings visit their web page

    Mountaineering Ireland – Climbing Wall Seminar

    CPD is key part of keeping abreast of any changes and being able to weigh up your skill set and knowledge. Given my role as Technical Expert then there was plenty today which was very relevant. Thanks for the hosts and MI for putting on the seminar.

    The four areas covered were

    • Hazards
    • Inspections of climbing wall structures
    • Customers
    • Regulations of structures

    With over 1 million people choosing the use indoor climbing walls in 2020, accidents will happen However, the climbing wall industry plays a keen and proactive rope in the education of climbers and reduction of accidents.

    Most accidents are due to human factors and often poor or bad practice, in particular belaying. Its not only those new too climbing but those who have been climbing for many years and who may become complacent.

    Moving Forward

    This is an exciting time and I am looking to forward to working with even more focused and enthusiastic customers. Hence the new website and range of services I am offering. Adventures, training and advising are the three main themes of what I find rewarding.