How long does an event take place before it is traditional?

During the month of September the Florida Speleological Society (FSS) members have a traditional climb practice and party at Bill’s house.  This event probably started as  preparation for the group traveling North to the Fall TAG Cave-in (traditionally) in October.  However, no one really knows when it started.  The tradition may have started when Bill was the long reigning president of the FSS back in the mid-1990’s, which is when Bill and Lisa purchased their lovely home.

On Saturday, September 19, 2015  FSS members met for the 29th year (+/- a year or two) in Bill’s backyard. Years of hard work are displayed in the beautiful lush gardens. Ropes dangled from ancient oaks 70 feet in the air. Climbers dangled from the ropes: practicing rusty climbing skills, fine-tuning equipment, doing change-overs, trying new gear, or even climbing for the first time.  Others chatted in the background, relaxed with a beverage and told stories of old times. Children played and entertained themselves on the backyard swing.  What ever people were doing–they were having a great time.  That is why every September we have a traditional party at Bill’s house.

When entering a vertical entrance of a cave by a rope one must know their gear proficiently, which is why we practice in trees. One is completely alone on the rope descending into unknown darkness, sometimes cold and often wet. A single rope is the lifeline into and out of the cave.  Climbing is fun but can also be dangerous. knowing your equipment and your limits reduces danger and increases the safety margin expeditiously.  Before ever attempting to enter a vertical cave, know your equipment well, know how to descend, how to climb, and how to switch from decent to climb mode (or vice versa) while on rope. Climbing in trees in fun but also a good way to train and gain knowledge keeping caving safe.

 

Story and photos by Philip Walker