Challenge Underground by Bruce L. Bedford

Challenge Underground

by Bruce L. Bedford

George Allen & Unwin, 1975, ISBN 0047960434, black and white photographic plates, line drawings, paperback

Very Good Condition, a little edge and shelf wear, a little rubbing and bumping to edges and corners, no inscriptions (see photographs)

“Caving was for a long time the Cinderella of the adventure sports, and most of us still view the thought of plunging many hundreds of feet below the surface of a hillside with trepidation – and with awe at those who do such a thing for pleasure.  Yet caving is growing in popularity as more people become aware of the beautiful, stimulating world of stalagmites and stalactites, helictites and curtains.  What sense of adventure and imagination drives these enthusiasts to endure extreme physical discomfort, fear and sometimes danger?  What rewards do they find underground for running the risk of being soaked, frozen, bruised and exhausted?  These are the questions which Bruce Bedford answers for those who have yet to wonder at the unforgettable experience, described in his opening chapter, of their first cave.  He conveys the essence of the sport’s magic to the ordinary non-caving reader, while experienced cavers will appreciate particularly the relevant anecdotes about themselves.  Both they and beginners will find the book a useful reference to the practicalities of the sport such as the origins of the caves and the equipment needed to explore them.”