I WANNA LEARN ... ABSEILING
MILITARY personnel, the Police Tactical Unit (PTU) and even rock climbers learn it. The first two need it to rescue people from great heights, but the latter? They do it for fun and it's Abseiling is the descent from a high point - usually the sheer face of a cliff) - by means of a double rope belayed above and arranged around the climber's body so he can control the slide downward.
For spot or rock climbers, abseiling down a steep slope within minutes is an adventurous sport by itself.
First, put on a helmet, climbing shoes, and get yourself safely harnessed. You can then control your descent by pulling a rope attached to two hooking devices called a 'figure of eight descender' and a karabiner.
This exercise trains one in balance and in overcoming acrophobia. But caution is always needed, especially for beginners, who should do it under supervision.
A charity organisation called The Adventure Ship offers short navigation training projects on board that includes abseiling. It is ideal for beginners because a slide from the deck will end in relatively safe water.
The junk is available for hire to youth or community organisations and schools (tel: 554-9722).
Or, you can take the rock-climbing courses organised by the 18 affiliated members of the Hongkong Mountaineering Union (HKMU) for less than $200. They teach both climbing and abseiling. Write to the HKMU (Kowloon PO Box 70837) for details.
