NTU ODAC Magazine 2007

AY 2006/07 NTU ODAC ANNUAL NEWSLETTER

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Hello and Welcome to NTU Outdoor Adventure Club!

Firsfly I wish to thank all those who have been with us and supporting us rn the past one year' Your participation and help has been invaluable to NTU ODAC's activities. Nevertheless, I hope that you have gained some skills and management along your way. These are very important for your future in time to come.

A lot of my schoolmates and friends asked why do I trek so frequently for the past one year and I do feel tired of the treks. The answer is very simple. "The parlicipants." Talking to different participants unfold different stories and true enough you learn to appreciate the masquerade of life'

This past one year, our special projects Pumpfest and Adventure Trail Challenge (ATC) were both sensational successes. The feedbacks from the participants were good and many of them are compliments. Our orientation camp, FOOT (Freshmen Overseas Orientation Trip), was also well received. lt had fulfilled the aim of introducing freshies to the warmth found in the big ODAC family, as well as many outdoor activities like trekking, rock climbing, kayaking. I am sure that you have had fond memories to carry along wiih you as you start your academic year in NTU. Everyone has a place in ODAC, from beginners all the way to stalwart adventurers. To all outdoor enthusiasts, do not ponder and procrastinate anymore. Come explore and discover rewards of adventure together with NTU ODAC. Finally, I would like to thank you all for the timeless effort and support for ODAC'

Gary Heah President NTU ODAC 11th Main Committee

3 Our ODAC Family

5 Overseas

1l Pumpfest

Trips

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Highlight: Odac brings you to Krabi, Southern Thailand, an ideal getaway destintion tcerning with natural attractions including white sandy beaches, fascinating coral rccfs, numerous largc and small islands and vcrdant forcsts with cavcs and watcrfalls.

iheck out this year annual bouldering

Adventure Trail Challenge

[n this racc against time, each team havc to outrun and or,rtlast all othcr tear.ns undcr harsh conditions. Which team will win?

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ition at Vivo Ci

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15 Freshmen Orientation Overseas Trip A warm welcomc to frcshmcn joining NTU ODAC.

17 Adventure Sports Want to lcam ncw sporls? AD Sports welcor-ncs you.

"Tl.re true way to rcndcr ourselvcs happy is to lovc our work and find in it our

plcasurc."

Being in the main committee is indeed an unforgettable experience for me. It is fortunatc to work with a group of committee members that valued teamwork, fricndships and have a ctaze for outdoor activities.

Not forgetting thc sub-comrnittee rnembcrs, a big thank you for making ODAC cvents so succcssful. E,very singlc rnernber and thcir effort put in contributes in rnaking ODAC a well-known and fun-loving family.

I truely hope that this issue of OUTDOORS will bring back your wonderful memories and urge you to be part of our big family.

I:ugenc Tay

Publication Officer

NTtl ODAC IIth Main Comrnittee

MAIN COMMTTTEE

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ABSENT: GENY HEAH, XUELING

IDVENTURE SPORTS

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o ur trip to Gunung Angsi started out on a very interesting note. To start with, almost half

the trip participants were from Accountancy.

Also, the closest that most of us had come to taking .MRT". This time, not only were a train was the we taking a "real train" to Seremban, we also had sleeping berths (beds). Though the berths weren't very big, many of us were so excited that we spent almost an hour just chit chatting and exploring the train's many carriages.

The journey took a little more than 6 hours and we arrived in Seremban just as the sun was rising.

After having some rather large pratas for breakfast, we worked our way through the morning crowd to the bus terminal.

The bus ride to Ulu Bendol National Park took a little less than half an hour and soon after, we were already trekking up the mountain. Gunung Angsi is 822mtall. Although the initial part of the trek was quite easy, it starled to become more challenging once we crossed the mid-point. Some stretches were so steep and long, and when we reached the end of that stretch, we were only greeted by another long and steep stretch. Some of us even thought it would never stoP! At around 2 pm, we arrived at a rest point with many large boulders and rocks. They were so large that we had to use roPes to get over them. We were only about 30 minutes from the peak but unfortunately time was not on our side. No camping was allowed on the mountain and we had to reach the foot by 5.30 pm.

So we rested and had our packed lunch bY the boulders.

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Although we were unable to reach the peak, the scenery from atop the boulders was very nice and climbing the boulders themselves was an adrenalin rush by itself. A few of us though decided to forego the rest and dashed for the peak without our bags. While tiring, it was worth it, as we could see Seremban town from the peak.

After the break, we hastity made our way to the foot of the mountain and headed for Malacca town via Seremban.

There we stayed at the Hotel Heeren lnn. lt was a small comfortable inn located right next to the historical "red houses" in Malacca. Although it had been a long day, most of us decided to go for some late night supper and chit chatted with the many new friends we had made during the tiring trek.

While we had started the journey by train, we were returning to SingaPore on wheels. The next morning, we took an express bus from Melaka Sentral Bus Terminal back home to Singapore.

Words lSyed Munir

lT!he trip started I with a heavv I oo*nporr but

as a group Thankfully, we were blessed with good weather throughout most of the trip. When night fell, we had a romantic evening by the falls, huddling together for warmth and bathing in the moonlight.

that did not deter our enthusiasm. We mingled and chitchatted throughout the bus journey to Kuantan, keeping our spirits high despite the on-off showers.

When we arrived at Kuantan, we were miraculously blessed with clear skies. Soon, we were whisked off ror a hearty yummy breakfast of pratas and nasi lemak.

The trek began with great excitement as we were greeted with the magnificent twin waterfalls at the very beginning. Our sleepiness was instantly washed away as we swam, dived and made our way to the highest point of the twin waterfalls. Shortly, we commenced our trek up to the finalwaterfall. As we reached the top, the majestic Berkelah Falls greeted us.

Great times were spent lazing around the falls, napping, soaking in the cooling water, being washed to a corner when we attempted swimming and simply, chilling out by the falls. lt was so serene and calm as we indulge in the pleasures of being outdoors.

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It was such splendid moment

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as we wished time : would stop at that i instant. Eventually, ; we ended the nighti i with a blast as we played i sparkles i watched intensely; at the stunning beauty of the little sparks even when we got engulfed in the smoke.

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Soon, it was time to bid farewellto Berkelah Falls as most of us slid and used "butt-power" to our maximum abilities for the trek down. Filled with great memories and fully recharged minds and souls, we looked back at Kuantan for the last time before heading home.

Words I Serene Lim

We satisfied our hunger with good food and were delighted in the bliss of cooking together

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his academic year ODAC introduces a new trip to Lata Berembun. lt is situated in Raub, a smalltown in Pahang. The trip lCs were Xueling and myself. What makes this trip unique is that we had Professor Gan to join us in the trip. This was his second trip with ODAC, the previous trek he went was Berkelah Waterfall in the first semester.

We gathered at Woodlands Regional Centre's Sheng Shiong Supermarket to buy food for our trip at around 1900 hrs. We had fun buying allthe food as we were really picky in terms of the food we choose to buy....that's being typical Singaporean. After buying all the necessary stuff we set off to Larkin Bus terminal in Johor Bahru. /Ve took a midnight coach to Kuala Lumpur, the journey was surprisingly fast and we only took 4 hours to reach. The participants were still sound asleep on their seats and I had to wake them up. Nonetheless, we

what makes this ride so exciting are the really steep slopes and hearing the engine of the monstrous truck roaring its way up. This is what I called 4-WD. You can hear the participants' rEgr rr lv when vvr lEr r gour u rE T4-WDi cheering ur eachr ur of the crossed the river. Seeing the happiness on the participants' faces, I know that they too are enjoying the ride.

took a cab to Pekilining Bus Station which is another bus station at Kuala Lumpur instead at Pudraya. We had our early breakfast at an lndian Restaurant before taking the first bus to Raub. On the way to Raub, many of the participants once again fell into their dreamland.

When the awesome 4 Wheel-Drive (4-WD)came to pick us up, many of the participants were enthusiastic.

Most of the dirt tracks are muddy and

The ride brought us to the base camp. Without wasting any time, I ordered the participants to quickly strike the tents so that we would have plenty of time to play. The water was freezing cold but we did enjoy ourselves.

As the sun sets, we returned to the base camp to cook delicious dinner.

On the third day morning, many of us woke up early to capture the last glimpse of the waterfall trek before we head back to Singapore. Even I though the journey to Lata Berembuni was far, the journey was still a good and enjoyable one.

Words I Gary Heah

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007 marks the 1Oth anniversary of Pumpfest.

From its humble beginnings in 1998 with only 40 participants, the event has grown by leaps and bounds with 382 participants taking part this year.

This year, Pumpfest was held at VivoCity from l"tJune to 3'd June. Despite the larger scale, Pumpfest has still managed to retain its character of being an event friendly to new and novice climbers.

2 new categories (NoviceSecondary Men/Ladies) were introduced this year. The motivation behind these new categories was the need to provide a platform for young climbers to compete within their own league. The new categories have reduced the competitive pressure that younger competitors felt from older and more mature climbers, giving them more freedom to pursue their passion in climbing. This year, more schools also took part in the Team Category, which saw 20 teams participating.

11106/07 OUTDOORS

Bouldering is the simplest form of sport climbing where no harnesses or ropes are needed.

Climbers attempt routes on walls of about 4 to 5 meters in height.

Safety mattresses are laid beneath the climbers to break their fall and ensure a soft and safe landing.

The variety of bouldering routes possible is almost infinite. Each bouldering route presents its own challenges to the climber.

Usually they require the use of certain techniques to complete.

Often, the strength of your grip or the endurance of your arms will not prove sufficient.

Sometimes, a less conventional approach may even be required to complete the route.

Bouldering is not just a test of your physical endurance, but your mental faculties as well. ln a bouldering competition, the pace is faster and much more interesting for both the spectator and climber. lt all comes to a peak on the third day when the finals are held. lf the difficulties of the bouldering routes do not

puzzle you, the way that the finalists complete them will.

One might go as far as saying that they were both elegant and graceful in their style.

This year, Pumpfest was graced by our Guest-of-Honour, Associate Professor Lok Tat Seng who is also the NTU Dean of Students. He was there to watch the Final round for the highly competitive Open Men's Category and handed out the prizes and medals to all our winners.

It has been a long and challenging journey for the organizing committee, most of whom are no more than beginner climbers. Many of them have only had their Level 1 certification for less than a year. Besides Pumpfest, the organizing committee also conducts climbing clinics for various community and social organizations as part of its community outreach effort.

Pumpfest 2007 would not have been possible without the help of our NTU ODAC members, seniors, friends and volunteers, both from within NTU and beyond. Thank you.

SPECIAL PROJ ECT OFFICERS: SYED MUNIR & SEoW XUELING

ouTDooRS06/07 1P12

I t has been 4 vears since the first Adventure Trail I Chrtt"ng" (AiC; provided amateurs with the I opportunity to do adventure racing like a professional.

This year, armed with just pure passion and commitment, the ATC 2007 organizing committee brought adventure racing to yet another level. On 1Oth June, we see our efforts materialize as the race finally took off.

That Sunday morning was bright and sunny, the perfect day for any outdoor adventure sport. Participants begin to stream in at 7am, all geared up for the challenging race ahead. The DJ, our ex-ex NTU ODAC president, Eugene, greeted us like the morning sun and lifted our spirits high.

Our Guest-of-Honor, Singapore's very own adventurer, Mr. Khoo Swee Chiow graced our race and flagged off our participants in the second wave.

As participants darted off at the sound of the horn, they made their way to Pasir Ris beach where they embarked on the kayaking leg of the race. Braving the scotching sun, the participants maneuvered their double kayaks around the fishing kelongs off the beach, looking for clues to solve their puzzles.

Unlike any other urban races, the participants are 'treated' to 100% outdoor fun, running into off road trails. This is precisely why the highlight of the race had to be the trail biking leg at Lorong Halus. The biking route was serene and scenic, yet on the other hand it proved to be a worthy challenge to even experienced bikers. Participants also waded like ducks in mud of knee height to bring themselves across the river using just a cargo net.

The adrenaline rush pushed the participants further and they are tested on their teamwork as they raced to the open field beside lkea Tampines. ln teams of 2 or 4, all had to work together to complete a series of obstacles by walking with 2 planks. This may look easy but a slight lack of coordination would cause the team a time penalty.

Sweat trickled down their foreheads as they marclred in unison to finish the task. Thereafter, the tired but determined participants continued on to the last station at Pasir Ris Park. This time they had tc conquer the 'Koala Bear'game. Hugging onto a plastic pipe like a koala bear hugging the tree, one has to turn himself/herself in order to roll from one end to another. Strength is not the key factor as the participants had to figure out the best way to bring themselves across. Back at Pasir Ris White Sands, the crowd cheered and applause when teams began to arrive. After being mentally and physically drained, the finishing line was the sweetest victory for all.

A wave of satisfaction overwhelmed each and everyone of us as the participants thanked us for a fun and fulfilling

race. Nothing beats these words of gratitude and we know we have achieved what we set out to do. Without the effort put in by all of us, ATC 2007 would not be such a SUCCESS.

SPECTAL Pno; rcr OErtcrns: TAM CHoNGMENG & GRACE SUEN

Freshmen Overseas 5

Another year was about to end but never without our annual ODAC Freshmen Overseas Orientation Trip (F.O.O.T). This camp was our last to enjoy before a new school term starts and the time where freshmen get to know what NTU ODAC does regularly.

off to our July came when F.O.O.T 2007 started. Unfamiliar Third day came and everyone moved the bus ride, During campsite.

Panti destination, faces were around but the engaging ice-breakers trying common, in thing one with busy was everyone melted away the ice. The first day was orientating ideas Creative came' night SP get before seniors to the freshmen to the school by arranging station games came to the juniors' minds with the help from their group around the campus grounds. Time passed fast as leaders and many had succeeded winning the seniors' nightfall came. Anticipation was piling as participants hands with their sweet ProPosals. geared up for night cycling. lt was planned to allow those who went to be rewarded with captivating night scenery competition between the at Bukit Timah Hill. As participants continued on with their The spectacular cooking in the night. Everyone wore awaited much groups was cycling, it became enthusiastic to see them conquering up a tasty meal for the whipped and their chef's hat the hardest part of the night cycle, which was the long of food considered in judges. taste the was Not only and uphill road along Hall 11 to Hall 8. Day 1 ended in the presentation was important too' winner, determining the early hours of the second day with sore muscles and a judges, Ofoes the amongst After a short discussion sense of achievement for all.

Mian and Teriyaki Yi Seafood their was the victor with Chicken.

There was not much sleep before the sun rose. Sleepy reignited everyone within fire present the but were heads After breakfast on the fourth day, it was time for juniors as everyone boarded the bus to Yishun SAFRA and to ascend the Pelepah waterfalltrek. Spirits were high Kallang Basin. The bus rides were fun as everyone though rain came down but it brought everyone closer. started cheering inside the bus though there were Sun came back and everyone was able to enjoy the occasional onlookers. Rock-climbing and kayaking, waterfalls. Memories were brought back with many which were practised in ODAC, were introduced to the shots of smiles and poses along the trek. This day freshmen. The second day ended though many wished ended with a campfire where Miss Panti and cheers that there were more time to continue on. were battled out. overseas prepared their they as Eagerness filled the air The camp had to end soon, eventually. SP night was food with their group leaders'guidance. Upon reaching next when everyone wore their amazing Bollywood back to school, a slight drizzle came and it made the themed clothes. Photos were taken to reflect through environment cool for everyone after a day of under hot happy moments of the camp. When it was the end of sun. Our chief group leader introduced to juniors how the road for F.O.O.T 07, another road started for some. they can prepare themselves for the overseas trip by It was called FRIENDSHIPS! teaching them the proper way to pack and handle a pack bags their to went trekking bag. Soon, everyone SPECIAL PROI ECT OFF ICERs: eagerly and it was time to re-charge for another superb HEAH MIN AN &YAP YONG HAN day ahead.

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