Climbing UP: A Glance at UP Climbing

Rock climbing is a popular recreation at University of Portland. When the Beauchamp was built in 2015, students voted for a climbing wall in place of a pool. 

Junior Luke Bukikosa enters the climbing wall and stares at the climbing wall, finding the route he will take. Routes are scaled on the V-scale, ranging from V-0 to V-17.

Climbers often work together to give each other tips and figure out difficult routes. Luke works with fellow climbers to solve a route they are all working on.

Luke works at the climbing wall, setting up routes, cleaning holds, and belaying guests. Routes are cycled every two weeks and stay up for as long as a month.

Luke works his way up the forty foot tower, staying focused on his route. He is "sending the crack", climbing the thin crack that weaves its way up one of the four sides of the tower.

Depending on the kind of climbing, one might need some extra gear. For bouldering you will need shoes and chalk, for belaying a climber will also need a harness, strong rope, and a reliable partner.