It rained almost all day, but that did not dampen the spirits of the group. In the high Ropes, which is covered by a canopy of trees, we hardly knew it was coming down. Campers were pushing their limits and the limits of each element. We had our first ever 180 trapeze catch, our first Dangle Duo climb with a ROCK, and almost half the campers tried one of the elements blindfolded.
While we were in the trees, the other group was hopping, jumping, and slaloming until they could barely walk. The stopwatches were out and personal bests were the order of the day.
Lunch was mac & cheese and the campers fueled up in preparation for a busy afternoon. We started it by skyping with US Ski Team member Tommy Biesemeyer who joined us from Lake Placid. He shared some great stories and passed on some words of advice for the young athletes. “Try to focus on getting better and having fun, rather than results.” When asked about the really tough workouts he said, “It’s about mental toughness. Those are the ones that really make a difference. You have to push through the pain.” That was a perfect note to end on, as our first ever “Sufferfest” was next on our schedule!
As a group, and IN THE RAIN, we all did the following: 100 push-ups, 100 Rock throws, 100 yard sprint with Rock, 100 sit-ups, 100 Burpees, 100 Russian Twists, and 100 overhead Rock presses. Then we paraded our rocks out into the woods to ceremoniously pile them together. We have definitely spent enough time with them and needed some space. We all held hands and went around the circle answering the question, “My rock is…” The answers ranged from “a nightmare” to “my best friend.”
After a quick shower it was time to dress up in “All One Color” for dinner. We saw a variety of colors… pink, green, blue, black, red, orange and white. After dinner we took the night off and enjoyed a special treat of frozen yogurt and a movie, “Soul Surfer”.
Right now the kids are getting ready for bed. I just overheard one of the boys yell, “I’ve done 1050 push-ups!” They should all sleep well tonight.
Sufferfest Quotes:
I’m having a blast guys. Let’s do more! – Kristina
Sufferfest is a little too festive. – Henry R
Let’s do 101.- Coach Dan
I may die on this field.- Rachel
Ropes Course Quotes:
Your hands get so dirty when you hug a tree. – Maddie
My legs feel like a phone on vibrate. – Liddy
I’m going to be jacked by the end of this! – Rachel
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