Tuesdays at World Cup are huge. The entire camp experiences the thrills and excitement of the high ropes as well as the pain, exertion and intensity of the Leg Routine.
In the trees we focus on three things; setting a goal for each element, using breathing and visualization to handle the nervousness of the heights, and finally Teamwork. I was belaying the Trapeze which some call the most intense, as you must jump out into nothing and believe in yourself. I love this element because I get to see the transformation from self-doubt and stress to excitement and confidence. I know the feeling personally as I struggle with a fear of heights.
On the other side of the campus the group groans as they attack the hill for the Leg Routine. It starts with tucks, jumps, and slow crawls uphill. Just ask your athlete on Saturday which exercise hurt the most. Then it’s on to the Slalom and Berg Und Tal where the focus changes from strength to quickness and agility. Amazing how fast these athletes learn a skill and go from completing the race in 7 seconds down to under 5 seconds.
To congratulate the crew and to cool off we all went to the Folger’s pond to swim. It was a perfect end to a tough day. But, it was not over. After Taco Tuesday in the dining hall it was time to get moving again. A third of the group hit the rock wall. Another third played Swedish Dodgeball, and the final third cooked pumpkin donuts. I was with the cookers and the separating of the egg whites was quite a sight.
Finally it was time for yoga and relaxation and the kids dove right in. By the end of the session there was 45 kids completely quiet and relaxed. Awesome.
Tomorrow we are off to Rutland to Mtn Bike. Followed by Dancing and a World Cup soccer Tourney.
Quotes from the Leg Routine:
“It hurts, but it feels good.” – Isabella
“It makes my heart pump.” – Sadie
Quotes from the Ropes Course:
One of the campers was having a tough time getting psyched to jump for the trapeze and another camper yelled, “Put on your look of confidence!”
As Claire and Mia were trying to climb the Dangle Duo, we heard this… “I have an idea, but it’s probably going to hurt.”
“I don’t care if I get dirty. It’s Eliteam, honey!” – Sami