Episode 9 - Craig McClure | CMC Instructor Series

Summary:

This week we are joined by CMC Instructor Craig McClure. Craig got his start in rope rescue volunteering for a Search and Rescue team in Bend, OR. Eventually after many years of volunteering and teaching in the rope rescue field Craig started his own training company called The Crackerjack Group which he ran for nearly 10 years. After selling the Crackerjack Group he returned to his passion of rope training world joining CMC as an instructor in April 2022.

Overheard this episode:

4:46 – “Dude, rope is where it’s at.”

16:55 – “I really enjoy what we do in this, which is help people overcome those fears and kind of open up new things in their lives.”

24:52 – “That caving influence in ITRS (International Technical Rescue Symposium) is vital to the growth and vital to the history.”

30:54 – “If you’re going to pick up a new technique, you need to consider what you’re going to stop learning if you’re going to learn a new one.”

35:57 – “Their risk profile is different than yours, so maybe don’t adopt their practices.”

Important Warning

• Many of the activities discussed in this podcast pose a very substantial risk of serious injury or death.
• Products and techniques discussed in this podcast are intended for use by specially trained professionals.
• Technical rescue, rappelling, climbing and the training involved are very hazardous activities. Each situation has its own unique conditions and must be evaluated by those present. Effective risk management comes from experience, proper training and good personal judgment.
• CMC is not liable for any damages arising from abuse or improper use of the techniques or equipment discussed in this podcast.
• Topics discussed are the ideas and opinions of each individual.
• Department protocol and regulations should always take precedent.