It’s funny when I tell people I’m going to do the Bridge Climb the first thing they say is “Did you see Oprah do it?”. Firstly, no I didn’t see her climb the best bridge in the world. I think I was washing my hair that night. Secondly, I had this on my Bucket List long before Oprah even announced she was coming to Sydney. So why am I doing the Sydney Bridge Climb? Because I am shit-scared of heights. There is absolutely no way you will get me bungee jumping or sky-diving or in a hot air balloon. This climb will be a huge challenge for me as it is. And I thought it only fitting that I do it as part of my 40th Birthday (week long) celebrations.
10pm – Friday 25th February…. The night before the climb. I have a massive headache stressing about the whole thing. I’m playing out the day over and over in my head from start to finish.
Will we get there in time?
What am I going to wear that I’ll be comfortable in?
I’m going to look ridiculous in that jumpsuit.
I hope I don’t damage my nails.
I don’t think I’ll remember all the training.
I wonder how long it will take before I freeze.
Don’t look down, don’t look down.
I don’t know if I can do this.
Once I’m up… assuming I make it up… will I be able to get back down?
Coming down would have to be harder.
Don’t rush me.
What if I fall?
Will I make it to my party?
Shit this is hard.
I don’t know if I can do this.
Saturday 26th February - We’re running late but thankfully the traffic is not as bad as it is during the week. We switch to a train to Circular Quay then race by foot through The Rocks to the Bridge Climb headquarters. I am knackered before we even start!
First up we sign our life away, get breathalyzed, then change into the trendy jumpsuits and belt. Then we have a quick training session going up and down ladders… starting to freak a bit. The tour guide must have sensed this, and I own up to it when he asked, so I was put to the front of the queue. Now all I could think about was those poor people who are going to be stuck behind me.
But this was probably a good thing as it kept me moving. Going up the stairs, weaving in and out and across the walkways, and up the ladders, I tried to just concentrate on looking ahead or up. A quick glimpse down and my head would spin. I didn’t stop though. Once we were on the main span of the bridge my nerves subsided as the walkway widened, and more importantly was sealed so you couldn’t see below. The view is absolutely amazing from up there.
What goes up must come down. Oh boy! As soon as we got to those ladders my legs began shaking uncontrollably. It was so bad I had trouble finding each step. Our guide kept reassuring me that I was doing OK.
Hold on tight
Just don’t look
Get down quick
Everyone is waiting.
Before I knew it, it was over.
I made it!
I survived the Bridge Climb!
and I have a certificate to prove it. 
