smile, be happy, climb a chimney

DOLNI SMRZOVKA, Czech Republic (AP) -- From afar, they look like ants crawling up a tower into the sky.

Dozens of members of the Czech Union of Chimney Climbers scaled the 60-meter- (200-foot-) tall chimney of a former textile factory one recent Saturday - a hobby they do for thrills and incomparable views.

A 76-year-old former track-and-field athlete and an 8-year-old boy were among those who clambered up the chimney's ladder.

"It's a joy to climb one, to look around from the top on a beautiful sunny day," said organizer Jiri Chudoba. "It's also great to see the others smile and be happy."