By allowing ads to appear on this site, you support the local businesses who, in turn, support great journalism.
Time to Climb: Ninja course, rock climbing area now open
ninja-verticle
ninja ribbon cutting

With the countdown, “Three ... two ... one ... CHOMP!” Garet Fitzpatrick, director of the Great Bend Activity Center, cut the red ribbon on the facility’s newest outdoor feature, a ninja course and rock-climbing area.

Patterned after the national “ninja” obstacle course, this course finishes with a ramp to a 13-foot wall. Those who make it to the top can slide down a pole, but the padded turf on the ground is “extra squishy” for anyone who takes a tumble, Great Bend Recreation Center Executive Director Chris Umphres said. Even so, those who use the course do so at their own risk.

The ninja course and rock climbing area are located behind the My Backyard Playground at the GBRC Activity Center, 2715 18th St. (18th and Adams). 

The My Backyard Playground was added 10 years ago, Umphres said. “This (addition) is geared for a little bit older, all the way up to adult.

As children waited for the ribbon to fall so they could be among the first to try out the course, Umphres told them the design is “straight from the TV show,” referring to American Ninja Warriors. GBRC staff attended a national conference to get ideas for the area.


New mascot

A new GBRC mascot also joined the ribbon cutting. The mascot is a squirrel that does not yet have a name. GBRC Enrichment Director Megan Hammeke said the community is invited to help “name the squirrel.” A form to enter a proposed name and explain its backstory or why that name is the best choice is available at the GBRC Activity Center. The contest is open to all ages and the winning name will be chosen by votes from the public. A prize will be awarded to the person who submits the winning name of the new mascot. If there are duplicate entries for the winning name, the prize will go to the person who writes the best backstory. Entries must be submitted by Thursday, June 13.

The ribbon-cutting event featured free swag including ninja headbands. Prior to the ribbon cutting there was a free lunch. Cajun Connection served jambalaya. This new business operates as a food truck and was started earlier this year by Lyles Lashley and partners. They will be at the Rig Brew on June 7 at the Kansas Oil & Gas Museum and at Dry Lake Brewing on June 8.