It’s the season for tree climbing competitions, and so far our very own tree monkey, Josephine Hedger, has done us proud.
As a two-time world tree climbing champion, Jo’s somewhat of a comp veteran, and can’t resist a good challenge in the canopy. In April she escaped the turbulent English weather to attend the Charlotte Arborist Association Tree Climbing Competition in North Carolina.
It was the fourth year she’s competed – we think she’s addicted…
Sponsored by Husqvarna, it’s what we like to call a ‘friendly’ event, and a great excuse to get the tree folk of the world together for a dose of healthy competition. The comp was held in Freedom Park, Charlotte, and with clear, sunny skies and temperatures up to 30◦c, Jo came back with some interesting tan lines…
There were two other females competing – Marilu Dussault from Quebec and Josie Spangnolo from Kentucky. The prelims were close, and the girls showed their individual strengths, but it was our Jo who came out on top.
The Masters’ challenge was set up in a stunning 90ft Water Oak – a real treat to climb. Jo went first, and with a good high first throw line, she had a steady climb. The sun was pretty unforgiving, but the climb was fun and once again Jo worked her magic and won the challenge.
But for Jo it’s not all about the competition – it’s about getting to climb with some of the most talented climbers in the field. She had an amazing experience climbing with Rich Hattier from Anchor Bridge Ropeworks, Kentucky, who used the unique rope wrench invented by Kevin Bingham. It was a great opportunity for Jo to see this fantastic piece of kit in action.
Kevin Bingham also climbed on the rope wrench, and won the men's Master Climb. Both Kevin and Jo were awarded with amazing shiny belt buckles and a firm pat on the back!
And, of course, there’s always time for a few beers and some good old American grub. As well as sampling some bacon flavour ice cream(!) and a few drams of Bourbon, Jo hit the local bar, Hooters, with the extended tree family.
With a mix of some fantastic climbing, good weather, and great friends, Jo’s trip was a real winner. Coming first was just the icing on the cake!
