2018 Climbing Projects update
I have big plans for 2018 still, so far technically I'm only off track by one month at this point on my goal to have one awesome climbing trip per month. January saw personal bests put up at Red Rock in Vegas and February was a big zero trips. So far in March Harry and I did one outside climb at Reimer's Ranch it doesn't really count on my mission as it was crowded and unless you go to Reimer's on a weekday it feels like a crowded gym style crag. My hometown crags like Enchanted Rock, Reimer's Ranch and the Green Belt only count as climbing trips if I send one of these projects or put up some sort of personal best.
Climbing Projects
My project list is what I feel attainable and honestly these climbs are challenging for me, some more than others. The goal is to push my limits and set goals I can achieve and of course have fun doing it.
Solar Slab, 5.6, Trad - Red Rock Canyon, LV We were three pitches from the top but still had a ways to go when we turned back. This is nine pitches of what will be a 13 pitch day. The climbing grade will be manageable and this will be a strong test for me and my partners.
Sugar Loaf Mountain, 5.6-5.7 R, Trad/Bolted Slab - Organ Mountains, NM My climbing partner Ernest and I determined this was the closest multi-pitch option to us without going to Mexico. From what I have read about this 1800' slab wall is that there are many variations to the summit and just like Enchanted Rock slab, you can make your own adventure on the blank granite wall. Plus this is in a remote back country location with a full day of hiking and climbing.
Middle Crack, 5.8, Trad - Enchanted Rock, TX That climb that I just haven't been able to get past. The first move just gets in my head and the last two times I attempted it I wasn't where I wanted to be with my training. When I crush this thing in a few weeks I think it will be a big confidence booster to move on to the next climb.
Four Sheets to the Wind, 5.9+, Trad - New River Gorge, WV This climb is special to me because it was the first line I saw at the New that just blew me away and that weekend 5 years ago when I finally top roped it was a favorite. When I go back and send this thing proper it is going to feel good.
Mad Dog 20/20, 5.9R, Bolted Slab - Enchanted Rock, TX The first climb I ever attempted on the backside of the dome at Enchanted Rock, scared the shit out of me and the truth is I thought I was on the 5.8. Of course you're typical E-Rock 20ft run outs on some of the steepest slab possible. After the third bolt is where I backed off and I want to move past that spot and finish the climb properly on lead. That night after my first attempt I met Harry Arrieta for the first time and he laughed when we told him we had to back off a 5.8. Harry said he would be happy to retrieve our bail gear for us by sending it on sight the next day. The next day Harry got scared in the same spot as Ernest and I and to his credit he did retrieve the bail piece and down climbed successfully. These E-Rock routes just get in your head, and I'm hoping after a rope rope run or two I will be able to overcome my fears on this route and send it.
Climbing Rescue Class, with AMGA Instructor - This is important to me as I attempt more multi pitch climbing adventures. I just want to be safe and be able to react in the correct way if necessary.