It was a busy Monday afternoon but we managed to make our way to Border Crossing at Orchard Central for a company outing. Everyone looked pretty calm when we took the lift up to the fourth level. Upon seeing the height of Via Ferrata, the look on each faces turned pale.
Here is a gist of Via Ferrata. It is a traditional European mountaineering activity which had been said to have started in Italy during Word War 1, letting the troops crossing to Dolomites.
Border Crossing at Orchard Central
That’s us and Henry is behind the lens.
Last chance to back out!
After filling out the form, we braced ourselves and proceed with the activity. We were told to divide ourselves into groups of 3 so Ruby, Shaz and Daniel were in one team and Umar, Henry and Nabilah were in the other team. Afterwards we were instructed on the dos and don’ts and safety regulations by the instructors. With our safety gears on, we practiced the key movements which are “transfer” and tying the rope to the pigtail. Team work is extremely crucial!
Heart’s thumping, palm’s sweaty and the pull of arm muscles for each step was no excuse to back out as the only way to go was to climb up. It may look easy from afar but honestly, it is extremely tough especially when you are the kid who prefers to stay indoors and read books. Nevertheless, team GuideGecko climbed the Via Ferrata slow and steady but only God knows how exhausted we were.
In the first team, Ruby lead the climb followed by Shaz and Daniel. As for the second team, Umar was the first climber followed by Henry and Nabilah. The Border Crossing instructors were helpful and attentive. There were a few hurdles along the way and I bet without their guidance, we will not able to make it. Here’s a shout out to the instructors, thank you for all the help! As soon as the sun sets, we were almost there and with the help of the instructors and cheering motivated us to climb all the way to the top.
Alas everyone made it to the top and the view was definitely worth the climb. We took a breather and the instructors asked if anyone wanted to do abseiling. With sore muscles and no more energy to spare, we were all waving white flags except for Ruby who was still energetic and brave enough to slide all the way down.
Abseiling approximately 5 storey down.
Look up, it’s Ruby!
Here she comes.
100% satisfaction.
This whole experience was grueling and challenging but definitely worth it. Thanks to the team’s spirit and the help from Border Crossing’s instructors, otherwise we would all be stuck somewhere at the Via Ferrata. For adrenaline junkies and anyone else who wants to sweat it out, here is Border Crossing’s info.
Destination not found.
Did you come across with giants on your way to India?
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