Abseil Fundraiser with Ulster Cancer

Many hobbies have their ups and downs, but when things go "down" for members of the WLHA, they go down big time - in excess of 100ft to be precise. 

WLHA members Gavin McQuaid, Tadgh Morgan, Neal Armstrong, Mike Gilmore and Johnston Dixon braved a windy Newtownards to take part in a charity abseil from the top of Scrabo Tower in aid of the Ulster Cancer Foundation. The Tower itself is one of Northern Ireland's most imposing and best known landmarks. From the base of the Tower you can see Belfast, the Mournes and Scotland. Perhaps the most unusual view you are treated to is looking down on the variety of aircraft including microlights, private planes and helicopters which appear to zip past at ankle height. A strange experience.

Tadgh, Neal and Gav, as our jump team, checked in and eagerly (so they told me!) awaited their turn. When the call came the guys trooped up the steps to the top and awaited their turn. Johnston and Mike took up their positions at the base to cover the event. First over the edge was Gavin, followed by Tadgh and Neal. I have no idea where those 3 intrepid club members found the courage to take the first few steps into the unknown and fear, but they did it - and did it in style. 

The descent was done, as far as safety considerations would allow, in WW2 kit. An onlooker came up to me and asked that favourite question...WHY? Why do a charity abseil dressed as US Rangers/82nd Airborne? The answer, as I said to her, is simple. Living history is about enthusiasts experiencing in person the challenges, routines and duties of those they represent. In this case the Rangers especially underwent extensive climbing training before their assault on the positions of Pointe-du-Hoc in Normandy on D-Day, June 6th, 1944. Granted there were none of our guys under fire on this venture and gravity was in their favour, but experiencing the feelings of fear and helplessness as the wind starts to swing you around 80ft above the ground makes a pretty good start in appreciating what those soldiers had to go through at PDH on D-Day 66 years ago.

The guys all made it back to earth safe and sound, with varying degrees of elation. Gav and Tadgh were keen for another go but of the 3, Neal I think displayed the most courage because he made no secret of the fact he was glad it was over and found the experience frightening and daunting. They all did I'm sure, but helmets off to Neal especially who went up there, confronted his personal fears and got on with the job of supporting the WLHA and a very good cause to boot. Excellent effort guys - well done one and all.

The abseil done, we departed a windswept and very cold Scrabo Tower. Our next stop was Newtownards town centre where we did a "recon" for a future event - but more about that closer to the time.  

The WLHA would like to thank the Ulster Cancer Foundation for allowing us to participate in their fundraising day and as a club, we are proud to have supported such a worthy local cause.

Mike Gilmore - PR Officer, WLHA