The “Geology and Sport”
project aims at investigating the links between geologically valuable areas, or
geosites, and sport, seen as one of the ways through which man and landscape
interact. More specifically, this project aims at unravelling how different rock climbing
styles and cultures can arise from differences in such interaction dictated by
the local geology.
GEOLOGY and SPORT: the link
between rock climbing and geomorphology
P.Pozza*, M. Beltrando**, M. Nardi***, G. Boschis****, F. Lugeri*****
ABSTRACT
The rock types that crop
out on the surface of the Earth exert a first-order control on the morphology
of the landscape and, in turn, on local climate and ecosystems. Human presence
and activities are also deeply influenced by geomorphological factors.
The “Geology and Sport”
project aims at investigating the links between geologically valuable areas, or
geosites, and sport, seen as one of the ways through which man and landscape
interact. More specifically, this project aims at unravelling how different rock climbing
styles and cultures can arise from differences in such interaction dictated by
the local geology.
Rock climbers, more than anyone else,
interact with the local geology, albeit often without a direct awareness of the
geological significance of the places where their activity unfolds. However,
several rock climbing sites have a significant scientific and cultural value,
too.
Therefore, an attempt to merge the
scientific value with the recreational value of 12 selected rock climbing sites
located in Italy
has been made. The areas have been selected in order to provide a complete
picture of the geological evolution of Italy from the Carboniferous to the
present-day. Famed local climbers have been interviewed in each case, to gain
insights on their personal experiences of interaction with such areas. As a
result, the influence of local geology on climbing styles and culture has been
highlighted.
Our results are now being communicated to
the general public through public lectures, publications in rock climbing
magazines and the creation of a calendar. A movie has also been planned.
Presented at the 7th International Conference on Geomorphology, Melbourne (Australia), 6 - 11 July 2009
*Geo d’OC consulting, Valdieri, Italy
**
Dipartimento di Scienze Mineralogiche e Petrologiche, Università di Torino,
Italy
