Q: I’ve never climbed before. Can I still participate?
A: Absolutely! OHEL Xtreme! is open to anyone 16 and over (under 18 need parental consent) minimum weight 100 pounds to 300 pounds who wants to challenge themselves to a once in a lifetime experience of rappelling down the Heritage Capital Group building. 95% of all OHEL Xtreme! Edgers have no previous rappelling experience.
 

Q: Will someone train me?
A: Yes. The reason we ask you to allocate 2-3 hours is due to training you will receive prior to your big rappel. When you arrive on site, you will have a training session to practice rappelling. This will give you a chance to practice using the equipment. The same safety procedures are used in the training as in the long rappel. You can practice as often as you would like before heading to the top.
 

Q: How safe is this?
A: As with everything, there are risks. It is important that during the training session, you listen to your rappelling instructors and follow their directions. The OHEL Xtreme! team is led by highly trained industrial rope experts who supervise all aspects of the rappel. Local fire departments, SWAT team, police, and experienced climbers are used to assist with non-technical portions of your experience.
 

Q: How fit do I have to be to rappel?
A: Rappellers must weigh more than 100 and less than 300 lbs. You need to be reasonably healthy to rappel, although you do not need to be physically fit. The speed of descent is controlled by technique rather than strength. Of course, if you have special needs, please let us know and we will discuss possibilities with you.
 

Q: Can I rappel if I have a physical disability?
A: Absolutely! This event caters to able and disabled individuals alike. Extra time and attention is focused on those with special needs. If required, a trained expert will rappel with you to provide assistance.
 

Q: What should I wear?
A: You are going to be walking down the side of a building, so wear sneakers, climbing shoes or something with a soft sole. No sandals, slip-ons, flip flops, or steel toe boots. Wear tighter fitting, comfortable long pants (kiki riki skirts) and a long-sleeve shirt. Athletic pants, tights and jeans are suitable. The harness goes around your legs, waist, and shoulders, so it is best to avoid anything too bulky. Shirts should be comfortable and without draw cords. Individuals with long hair should tie it back.
 

Q: How long will it take to rappel?
A: Your rate of descent will be determined by your comfort level in terms of the speed you wish to rappel. It will take between 8-15 minutes to get to the bottom.
 

Q: What if I let go of the rope?
A: If you let go of the rope, one of two safety systems will engage. Depending on where you let go of the rope, you can expect to rappel 4-5 feet before the safety system engages.
 

Q: Can my family and friends come see me rappel?
A: Of course! Family and friends are welcome in the ground level viewing area only.
 

Q: Can I bring a camera and phone?
A: We don’t want any objects dropped over the side. Sorry, no cameras on the roof. Helmet cams are allowed as long as they are properly secured to your helmet. A photographer will be there to capture you going over.
 

Q: How do I get started?
A: Visit our event page at www.teamohelote.com to set up your fundraising page and send in the form with your registration fee. Tell your friends! You are one of ONLY 90 EDGERS who will be rappelling from OHEL Xtreme! Congratulations!!