Caving Tidbits from COP History
by Ann Gerckens
1976 - CAVING CLASSING SYSTEM Ron Eisele devised a system of classifying cavers just like the bicyclists have. A porta-cave was built to give an individual a chance to determine his/her classification. This is made of 4 sticks that have adjustable positions in the vertical direction. A person attempts to squeeze through narrower and narrower square holes until their match is met. This is declared their class. Class A is 6 1/2 inch or less, Class B is 6 1/2 to 7 1/2 inch, Class C is 7 1/2 to 8 1/2 inch, and Class D is 8 1/2 inch and above. Upon certification Class B cavers were presented with the Order of Sore Sternum and Class A cavers with the Medal of the Cracked Coccyx.
1977 - KRIETZBURG KAVE A home made cave of tires graced John and Sue Krietzburg's back yard where many people regularly gathered to try this seventy foot cave. Highlights included: cayoning over boiled egg bog, cable ladder climbing up Oak Crest, crooked pit, hell's turn, tired squeeze and cave sizing through porta squeeze. The official name was "Dead Tread Dread".
1978 - COW & COUNTERFEITER CAVE MAP Notice that the title says cave, singular. It was determined that if Cow & Counterfeiter caves really connected the best way to determine this was by mapping both caves. After several trips by a total of 29 people over two years both caves where mapped. Columbus Council AYH trippers had discovered that these were really one cave system. A map has been produced and the original can be seen at the COP Office.
1980 - CAVING An exposition of the speleological safety content inherent in great poetry. Analysis & Comment, only by: Ronald C. Eisele
INVICTUS ANALYSIS COMMENTS
Out of the night that Covers me Caver's carbide lamp is out This is to be expected. Carry 3 sources of light.
Black as the pity from pole to pole. Caver is perched on edge of pit When in doubt, BELAY!
I thank whatever Gods May be For my unconquerable Soul Caver actually cursed. Only one hand is free to relight lamp We need practice sessions. Anyone for electric lights?
In the fell clutch of Circumstance l have not winced nor Cried aloud While failing, caver kept mouth shut Proper technique would be to yell "falling".
Under the bludgeonings of chance My head is bloody but Unbowed Caver's head is injured because helmet straps were loose Helmets must be worn and securely tightened.
Beyond this place of Wrath and tears Looms but the horror Of the shade After falling, caver must now get out of cave Rescue training is needed.
And yet the menace of The years Finds and shall find Me unafraid Unclear. Perhaps caver doubts ability to exit cave and is preparing for long stay Why do years "menace"? Typical attitude of blaming it on age.
It matters not how Strait the gait Quickest way out is through 7" squeeze but caver is calibrated only to 7 1/2". Squeeze is not straight and gate may be locked. Maybe starvation will wear off a half-inch.
How charged with Punishments the scroll In addition, the squeeze is lined with popcorn Wear heavy, durable coveralls and kneepads.
I am the master of My fate Injured caver is trying to get psyched up to enter squeeze Exhale. Shove with legs and breathe longitudinally.
I am the Captain of My soul. Caver is stuck in squeeze and is trying not to panic although injury is severe and light is out again. DON'T CAVE ALONE.
1981 -CAVING An extensive report by John Krietzburg relates in 3 articles in the Buckeye Hosteler the surveying of Sand Cave to find that it is connected to Tygart's Cave. This is just one of the many cave exploring trips that Columbus Council has undertaken to the benefit of all cavers.
CAVE POEM When I used to think of caving, I must admit I'd frown. What could lure a person, into a hole in the ground'? Then one day I tried it, and lo the wonders I did see. I never thought anyone would make a caver out of me.