Sent: Tuesday, March 12, 2002 1:36 AM
Subject: New To Caving
Hello Saudi Cavers!
I
am now (finally) officially heading back to the Kingdom after almost 6 years.
Anyway, I want to get involved with cave exploring in the area after
I
get settled, and was wondering if Expats in the Riyadh area are into this
sort of activity!
I am completely new at this cave exploration thing, but
REALLY want to give it a go!
Before I leave the USA, I will need to get
some gear-related items. I really don't know exactly WHAT to buy!! so
HELP!
Specifically, I'm considering a purchase of a Petzl cave
exploration helmet with a combo acelelyne / battery light system. See :
<www.karstsports.com> .
- Does anyone know if I can locally obtain the calcium
carbide needed for the acetelyne lamp?
- If it's not available locally, I'll need to buy a
different lamp, since I can't ship the calcium carbide from the States (it's
considered a hazardous material)!
- What other equipment items will I need?
- Does anyone have training programs for novice cavers in
the Riyadh area? Is this an "expensive" sport? (relatively
speaking).
- What type of experience can I expect in exploring Saudi
Arabian Caves?
Thanks!
.......................
REPLY:
A detailed reply was sent directly to Dave, but
other readers may be interested to know that no cavers have ever been able to
find the proper kind of carbide in Saudi Arabia (Small chunks are needed, but
here we can only find a powdered version).
As for training for novice cavers, just send me an
email at saudicaves.com and we will
try to arrange a small course in Riyadh or Jeddah.
John
Pint