Slacklining , a sport which resembles low altitude tightrope walking, has proven popular amongst a group of diehard enthusiasts, but the faithful fear the sport’s growth in Calgary will be curbed by rules which makes the activity illegal in city parks.
Slacklining involves the tying of a nylon cord between two trees, or fixed structures, and attempting to traverse the distance while maintaining balance .
While proponents of slacklining say the pastime is safe, fun and a great core workout, officials with the city fear the activity could damage trees.
Members of Calgary’s slacklining community feel they have been unfairly targeted and are circulating a petition to have the bylaw relaxed.
“It’s really stifling the growth of slacklining as a sport in Calgary compared to a lot of other cities,” said slackliner Mitch Matula. “People are scared to get tickets and they shouldn't have to be for not doing anything wrong.”
A City of Calgary bylaw prohibits the activity in public parks with offenders fined $100 and escorted from the green space. Representatives with the City of Calgary Parks division admit the popularity of the sport has caught them by surprise and they hope a compromise can be reached.
“Slacklining, for us, is a pretty brand new activity.” said Todd Reichardt, City of Calgary Parks. “We’re keen to look at it and see what we can do within the current provisions to perhaps provide that service.”
Petition organizers will need the support of at least one city councillor before changes to the bylaw will be considered.
