If running a mile is becoming increasingly dull, then try going vertical in SMU Outdoor Adventure Center’s newest event: the Revenge of the Mile High Challenge.
Over the course of 12 weeks, teams of two will scale the climbing wall at the Dedman Center for Lifetime Sports in an attempt to cover a vertical mile. Rest assured, it’ll be a lot tougher than any mile traveled horizontally.
“For some, walking a mile can be a test of mental and physical willpower,” David Chambers, associate director of programs/outdoor adventures, said. “Let alone making it vertical.”
The Mile High Challenge and Club were first introduced to SMU in fall 2008. Other universities around the country offered contests to get climbers to climb more often, and thus, climb better. SMU sought to emulate this friendly competition but didn’t want to make it against other climbers.
“This idea of the Mile High Challenge came up while talking to a colleague at a California university and it kind of sounded fun,” Chambers said. “Join the Mile High Club. So we started it last fall.”
Participants don’t need to provide any equipment, nor is there a sign-up fee. All that is needed is a signed release form of liability and to become belay certified at the climbing wall. Skill level isn’t a factor. The Mile High Challenge’s goal is to get more people climbing and to raise overall climbing skill. Beginners are encouraged to come out and learn the ropes and experienced climbers are challenged to put their skills to the test.
“Climbers are rarely born,” Chambers said. “It takes time, practice and experience to get good at anything. The more you climb, the better you get. So essentially, and if all is well in the universe, participating in the challenge will increase skill levels.”
The prize for completing the Revenge of the Mile High Challenge is a T-shirt reserved exclusively for those in the Mile High Challenge. Pictures of the members of the Mile High Club will be posted online on the Outdoor Adventure Center’s website. And, of course, the bragging rights that come along with being in an elite, exclusive group.
“Only those that complete the challenge get a shirt, so if you see someone wearing one, you know they earned it,” Chambers said. “The envy of complete strangers is a by-product.”