Experiencing life outdoors and exploring the unchartered terrain, youngsters and those young at heart are taking to cycling, trekking, kayaking and rock climbing in their quest to challenge themselves and set the bar high.
Be it a trekking camp in the neighbouring Kodagu or the distant Himalayas, water sports in Tonnur Kere at Melukote, or scuba diving in the Andaman and Nicobar islands, adventure enthusiasts from the city are lining up and they are being egged on by their parents.
Adventure sports trainer and founder-member of International Academy of Mountaineering and Allied Sports (IAMAS) Deepak Solanki says, “About 10 years ago, when we organised a trekking camp in the Himalayas, there were only six participants. Today, we get over 100 aspirants of whom we can cater to 50 or 60 enthusiasts per camp”.
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For participants taking to such activity, it is not only an opportunity to test themselves but to gain confidence as their leadership qualities come to the fore.
Archita Raja, a commerce student at Vidyashrama, has participated in two trekking expeditions in the Himalayas. She says, “There is a feeling of accomplishment on reaching the summit and one gains confidence that despite the adversities, one can do it. This stands in good stead in life”.
K.M. Kaushal, a B.Com student of Mysore Institute of Commerce and Arts, says, “We cannot enjoy the pristine beauty of nature or of the sunrise and sunset in an urban environment. Such expeditions take us closer to nature”.
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Six organisations in the city cater to adventure demands of youngsters, the IAMAS, SPAN, Youth Hostel, National Adventure Foundation, Tiger Adventure Foundation, Cyclopedia, Kakini Enterprises and ADDventures Unlimited.
But it is not merely the lure of the great outdoors that is encouraging youngsters to take to adventure sports. It looks good on your CV too.
“Youngsters find involvement in such activities a plus point,” Mr. Solanki opines.