Now that the Dawn Wall climb is officially complete, EpicTV has spoken to a few other climbers to get their take on Tommy Caldwell and his relentless efforts to scale the toughest big wall on the planet. The video below provides some insight and perspective on that accomplishment, with top climbers sharing their thoughts.
More about → Video: Climbers Weigh in on the Dawn Wall Climb
Showing posts with label Climbing. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Climbing. Show all posts
Video: Climbers Weigh in on the Dawn Wall Climb
Posted by Unknown on Thursday, January 15, 2015
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Mission Accomplished on the Dawn Wall!
Posted by Unknown
The Dawn Wall – so named because it is the first granite face to catch the morning sun – is a massive chunk of rock that stands 3000 feet (900 meters) in height. It has been climbed previously of course, but all other ascents were aid climbs which use ropes, pitons, and ascenders to move up. Caldwell and Jorgeson are the first to do it using only their own physical abilities. Their ropes and protection were only place to prevent them from falling.
For the two men, this is the end of a quest that started more than eight years ago. Scouting the Dawn Wall and trying every pitch took many days and previous attempts fell short of the goal. This year, Tommy and Kevin were determined to get to the top, and although it wasn't easy, they were able to accomplish something that many thought was impossible.
After finishing the climb yesterday Jorgeson said “I hope it inspires people to find their own Dawn Wall, if you will. We’ve been working on this thing a long time, slowly and surely. I think everyone has their own secret Dawn Wall to complete one day, and maybe they can put this project in their own context.”
When they finished yesterday a crowd of well wishers were on hand to greet them. The Dawn Wall climb has captivated the world over the past few weeks, with even non-climbers getting pulled into the drama. The final pitches of the ascent were even streamed live on television and the Internet, with millions watching as Tommy and Kevin made history.
Neither man is ready to discuss what projects are next on their schedule, nor should they. They have just complete an amazingly difficult expedition, and it is time to rest, reflect, and recovery. I'm sure we'll be hearing a lot more about their efforts in the days ahead, but for now these two men should simply experience the moment.
Congratulations to Tommy and Kevin on an amazing job, and for inspiring all of us to pursue our dreams.
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Video: Hielo Y Fuego - Ice and Fire in Patagonia
Posted by Unknown on Wednesday, January 14, 2015
For those of you who simply can't get enough adventure in Patagonia (and who can blame you!), we have a new video series that launched today at EpicTV entitled Hielo Y Fuego. In this first episode, Italian climbers Luca Schiera and Matteo della Bordella join Swiss mountaineer Silvan Schüpbach on an expedition to open new routes in the region. Their first goal? An 1800 meter (5905 ft) ascent of Aguja de la Silla over mixed terrain.
If this first episode is any indication, this new series is going to be a good one to follow. Lots of great climbing and stunning scenery. Enjoy!
More about → Video: Hielo Y Fuego - Ice and Fire in Patagonia
If this first episode is any indication, this new series is going to be a good one to follow. Lots of great climbing and stunning scenery. Enjoy!
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Video: Tommy Caldwell Talks Dawn Wall with EpicTV
Posted by Unknown
Tommy Caldwell and Kevin Jorgeson's climb of the Dawn Wall is one of the biggest stories in the world right now – in or out of climbing. The two men are incredibly close to wrapping up what many have called the toughest climb in the world, and by this time tomorrow they may have found success at last. Prior to starting this expedition, Tommy sat down with the Climbing Daily crew from EpicTV and talked to them about the challenge of the Dawn Wall, which he has been exploring for more than eight years. That interview can be found in the video below, which also includes some amazing shots from Yosemite as well.
More about → Video: Tommy Caldwell Talks Dawn Wall with EpicTV
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Update From The Dawn Wall: Final Push to the Top Begins
Posted by Unknown
The two men started the climb back on December 27th, and have been methodically working their way up the 3000 foot (900 meter) rock face on El Capitan ever since. The Dawn Wall – so named because it catches the first light of the sun on El Cap each morning – has never been free climbed before, which means Caldwell and Jorgeson are making the ascent using only their physical abilities and considerable climbing skills. The ropes and protection that are in place are only there to prevent them from falling, but are not helping them move up in any way.
The most difficult pitches are number 15 and 16, which Caldwell was able to overcome more than a week and a half ago. But his partner struggled for seven days on pitch 15, falling more than 11 times. For awhile it looked like Jorgeson might not be able to get past that section, but this past weekend he completed the pitch at last, and scurried up 16 with very little difficulty. This allowed him to rejoin Caldwell, and the pair are now finishing off the final sections, none of which are as remotely difficult as anything they have already passed.
The men have been climbing at night, when the rock allows their hands and feet to grip the surface better. Tonight is expected to be their final evening on the wall. Most estimates indicate that they should complete the climb sometime late Wednesday or early Thursday morning. That means we're about to see climbing history be made. This epic expedition to climb the hardest big wall on the planet is about to wrap up, and even the non-climbing world has been sucked into the experience.
Stay tuned for more updates. I expect to have good news to report tomorrow morning.
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Video: Day 14 on the Dawn Wall - Major Success!
Posted by Unknown on Tuesday, January 13, 2015
As climbers Tommy Caldwell and Kevin Jorgeson continue their efforts to climb the incredibly difficult Dawn Wall in Yosemite, we all watch with baited breath in anticipation of them finally completing the ascent. This video comes from a few days back, when Kevin was finally able to push his way past the incredible difficult 15th pitch, which had stymied him for a week. The clip not only gives us insights on to what he was thinking, it also gives us a very close look at the wall itself. This video will give you even more appreciation for what these two men are doing.
More about → Video: Day 14 on the Dawn Wall - Major Success!
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Video: A Line Across The Sky - Climbing in Patagonia with Alex Honnold and Tommy Caldwell
Posted by Unknown on Monday, January 12, 2015
We have another outstanding climbing video today, in a setting that is amongst the very best in the entire world. This short film takes us to Patagonia with Tommy Caldwell and Alex Honnold, as they attempt to complete the first Fitz Traverse - a four-mile (6.4 km) long trek that includes 13,000 feet (3962 meter) of vertical gain that crosses Cerro Fitz Roy and its six satellite peaks. A perfect weather window gave Tommy and Alex the opportunity to complete this project, which took five days to wrap up. The expedition will be fully documented in an up coming movie from Sender Films, but this video gives us our first glimpse at what they faced, and overcame, on this incredibly tough route.
More about → Video: A Line Across The Sky - Climbing in Patagonia with Alex Honnold and Tommy Caldwell
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Video: North America's Fifty Classic Climbs - Episode 1: Fine Jade (5.11a)
Posted by Unknown
Our friends over at EpicTV have just launched a promising looking new series of videos that will give viewers a glimpse of the North America's 50 Classic Climbs. The series will feature climbers Mark and Janelle Smiley, as they attempt to climb each of the routes in that classic book. These videos will allow us to come along for the ride.
In episode one, Mark and Janelle head to Utah to climb a sandstone tower on a 5.11a route called Fine Jade. While not an incredibly long, or difficult, climb, it does provide some solid challenges to get them started, while also providing some outstanding views of the surrounding landscapes as well.
This looks like it could be a fun new series, so be sure to check out future episodes here.
More about → Video: North America's Fifty Classic Climbs - Episode 1: Fine Jade (5.11a)
In episode one, Mark and Janelle head to Utah to climb a sandstone tower on a 5.11a route called Fine Jade. While not an incredibly long, or difficult, climb, it does provide some solid challenges to get them started, while also providing some outstanding views of the surrounding landscapes as well.
This looks like it could be a fun new series, so be sure to check out future episodes here.
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Update From The Dawn Wall: Climbers Above Hardest Pitches, Success Still Not Assured
Posted by Unknown
For those that don't know, the Dawn Wall is so named because it faces east and is the first section of El Cap to receive light in the morning. The 3000-foot (900 meter) granite face was first climbed by Warren Harding and Dean Caldwell (no relation to Tommy) back in 1970. But that ascent was made with the use of ropes and protection to get to the top. Even with aid, the duo still struggled to compete the route, even refusing a rescue at one point. What Tommy and Kevin are attempting to do is on a completely different level however, as they are free climbing the wall. That means they're only using ropes and protection to arrest their fall, but are making the ascent completely under their own power, using nothing more than than their physical strength and considerable climbing skills.
Most experts indicate that the 15th and 16th pitches are the two toughest on the entire route, which consists of 30 pitches over all. Last week, Caldwell was able to get past both of those challenges, and seemed poised to scamper up the rest of the route, reaching the top as early as this past weekend. Meanwhile, Kevin struggled for seven days on the 15th pitch, falling 11 times over that period. As the skin on his fingers wore thin, it started to look like he might not be able to get past those daunting sections. Over the weekend however, he managed to finish the 15th pitch at last, and his momentum even carried up the 16th with little trouble as well. His partner watched on with interest, offering encouragement, and cheering the success of his friend.
Now, the two men are reunited on the Dawn Wall, and will continue upwards together. They have passed what most consider the most difficult part of the climb, and are now getting ready to push towards the top. They still have some considerable obstacles to overcome, but considering their talent, nothing that remains on the route should be insurmountable. That said, until they finish the last pitch, success it still not assured.
This is the biggest climb in the world, and many observers have been transfixed by the events that are unfolding in Yosemite. Even non-climbers are watching with anticipation to see if Tommy and Kevin can complete the route. In a few days time, we should know more.
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Video: Push Day on the Dawn Wall
Posted by Unknown on Friday, January 9, 2015
Do you wonder what it is like for Tommy Caldwell and Kevin Jorgeson, the two men who are currently attempting to climb the Dawn Wall in Yosemite? If so, than take a look at this video. It was shot on Day 8 of their climb (they're currently on Day 14), and it gives you a good look at just how massive and difficult this 3000 foot (900 meter) rock face truly is. The Dawn Wall has been called the most difficult rock climb in the world, and these two men have been planning the project for five years, and have attempted it a couple of times in the past. With a little luck, they'll wrap it up this weekend, successfully reaching the top of El Capitan at long last.
The Push Day 08 from Rock & Ice on Vimeo.
More about → Video: Push Day on the Dawn Wall
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Video: Tommy Caldwell and the Dawn Wall
Posted by Unknown on Thursday, January 8, 2015
If you've been keeping up with what has been going on in the world of big wall climbing this week, you're probably already aware that Tommy Caldwell and Kevin Jorgeson are attempting to free climb what many have called the hardest route in the world. The two men are now 13 days into the ascent of The Dawn Wall in Yosemite, which is a 3000-foot rock face on El Capitan. This is their third attempt on this project, and they are making better progress than ever before. It is now possible that they could complete the route this coming weekend.
The video below is a bonus clip from the film Valley Uprising, which takes a look at climbing culture in Yosemite. It features Caldwell talking about the importance of the Dawn Wall, and its place in the annals of rock climbing history. It seems a fitting clip to watch as we all wait for Tommy and Kevin to make history. If they are successful, it will be the first complete free climb of the route. Good luck boys!
More about → Video: Tommy Caldwell and the Dawn Wall
The video below is a bonus clip from the film Valley Uprising, which takes a look at climbing culture in Yosemite. It features Caldwell talking about the importance of the Dawn Wall, and its place in the annals of rock climbing history. It seems a fitting clip to watch as we all wait for Tommy and Kevin to make history. If they are successful, it will be the first complete free climb of the route. Good luck boys!
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Video: Tommy Caldwell Climbs the Four Hardest Routest at The Monastery in a Single Day!
Posted by Unknown on Friday, January 2, 2015
Tommy Caldwell is one of the best climbers working the rock today. He proves that once again in this video, in which he takes on four of the hardest climbs at The Monastery in Colorado in a single day. Each of these routes is incredibly challenging in their own right, but doing all of them in one day only adds to the difficulty. Caldwell uses the experience to help prepare him for his ultimate project – climbing the Dawn Wall on El Capitan, a project he has been working on for five years.
Tommy Caldwell Climbs The Four Hardest Routes at the Monastery, In a Day!!! from BlueWater Ropes on Vimeo.
More about → Video: Tommy Caldwell Climbs the Four Hardest Routest at The Monastery in a Single Day!
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Video: EpicTV Looks at the Three Weirdest Climbs of 2014
Posted by Unknown on Wednesday, December 31, 2014
As 2014 draws to a close, it is always fun to look back on the year that has just passed and reminisce about some of the amazing, wonderful, and just plain strange things that went down. In the case of this video, that means checking out the three weirdest climbs of the year, as decided on by our friends over at EpicTV. Check out their choices below and see if you agree.
More about → Video: EpicTV Looks at the Three Weirdest Climbs of 2014
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Gear Junkie Looks at the 110 Greatest Outdoor Ambassadors of All Time
Posted by Unknown on Tuesday, December 30, 2014
Regular readers of this blog will recognize more than a few names that have earned a spot in the line-up. Some of the men and women who are part of the list are outdoor athletes, while others are explorers, conservationists, gear designers, and so on. Each has made an undeniable contribution to the world of outdoor adventure, and while not all of them are household names, they each are very deserving of this honor.
Some of the people who made the list include polar skier John Huston, inventor and adventurer Ray Jardine, polar explorer Eric Larsen, adventure racer Mike Kloser, and mountaineer Conrad Anker, just to name a few. Some of the outdoor luminaries that are part of the project are still active today, others are historical figures from the past who left their mark in some very unique ways. These men and women are climbers, skiers, endurance athletes, filmmakers, and so much more. Over the years, they have inspired us, encouraged us, and most of all, they have certainly lived up to the title of "Outdoor Ambassador."
One of the best elements of this list is that it isn't quite complete yet. At the moment, it ends at number 73, who happens to be our friend Dave Cornthwaite of Expedition 1000 fame. The Gear Junkie and Wigwam are asking us to help fill in the rest of the list by suggesting more names to add. In the coming weeks, they will continue to expand the number of men and women who earn the honor of being included in this hall of fame based on the suggestions that we provide. For instance, I've suggested Ueli Steck as a candidate, and think that he is very deserving of being one of these ambassadors as well.
Who do you think should make the cut? Have a look at the full list here, and then add your suggestions here.
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Video: Bluetopia - Adventure in the Blue Mountains of Australia
Posted by Unknown on Monday, December 22, 2014
If you needed more proof of the wonderful adventure opportunities that can be found in Australia, this video will certainly provided it. The 15-minue long short-film follows a group of friends as they travel two hours outside of Sydney to visit the amazing Blue Mountains, an outdoor playground that offers climbing, BASE jumping, trail running, camping, and more. The group captured some amazing shots of the beautiful landscapes there, while also experiencing all of the fantastic adventures that this place has to offer. The result is this fantastic video, which I think you'll enjoy as much as I did.
BLUETOPIA from Mission Control Collective on Vimeo.
More about → Video: Bluetopia - Adventure in the Blue Mountains of Australia
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Gear Institute Announces Gear of the Year for 2014
Posted by Unknown
Some of the items that earned this distinction from the expert staff over at the Gear Institute include the Lowa Camino LL Flex boots, which were named the best backpacking boot, and the Patagonia Ascensionist 35L which won best daypack. Joining those items in the winner circle were the La Sportive TC Pro climbing shoes (best all-purpose climbing shoe), and the Primus ETA Lite (best rapid-boil stove). Mountain Hardware's Skyledge 3 earned the distinction of being the best 3-person backpacking tent, while the Brooks Cascade 9 went home with the trophy for top comfort trail running shoes.
The Gear Institute has been around for a few years now, and over that time it has become one of the best online resources for anything outdoor gear related. Their team consists of numerous individual experts on specific gear items, and they put that expertise to good use testing and reviewing all kinds of items that will likely be of interest to you. Be sure to check out their Best in Class 2014 list to see what gear items have impressed them the most this year.
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Video: Katabatic - Episode 4: The First Ascent of Bertha's Tower in Antarctica
Posted by Unknown on Wednesday, December 17, 2014
If you've been waiting patiently for the fourth episode in EpicTV's Katabatic series, your wait is finally over. The latest video can be found below, and it features explorers Mike Libecki, Freddie Wilkinson, Cory Richards and Keith Ladzinski as they attempt the first ascent of Bertha's Tower in Antarctica. This is challenging climbing in one of the most remote settings on the planet, and if you've watched the previous episodes of the series, you know how far the team has come just to reach this point. The Katabatic series is modern exploration and adventure at its finest, and should not be missed by anyone who reads this blog.
More about → Video: Katabatic - Episode 4: The First Ascent of Bertha's Tower in Antarctica
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Video: Rock Climbing and Bouldering in South Africa
Posted by Unknown on Tuesday, December 16, 2014
Earlier this year, rock climber Angy Eiter traveled to South Africa with some friends to check out the rock climbing and bouldering scene. This video shares some of their exploits there, while giving us some nice highlights of the South African landscapes. Make yourself comfortable, and enjoy watching these climbers test their skills on some challenging problems.
South Africa Climbs - Moving Pictures from K3-Climbing.at on Vimeo.
More about → Video: Rock Climbing and Bouldering in South Africa
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Video: Zion: Rock of Refuge
Posted by Unknown on Monday, December 8, 2014
Zion National Park is one of the best places in the world to go canyoneering and climbing. It is an outdoor playground that is almost too spectacular for word. This video is a 40-minute documentary that takes viewers into the heart of Zion, showing off some of the amazing landscapes that exist there, and the opportunities for outdoor adventure. While it is longer than most of the videos I share here on The Adventure Blog, it is also worth watch. So make yourself a snack, get settled in, and enjoy this great short-film on Zion. Afterwards, you'll be planning your own visit to the park soon. Simply beautiful.
Zion: Rock of Refuge from Eric Hanson on Vimeo.
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Video: Katabatic - Episode 3
Posted by Unknown on Thursday, December 4, 2014
EpicTV has released the third episode in their outstanding Katabatic series. These videos follow explorers Mike Libecki, Freddie Wilkinson, Cory Richards and Keith Ladzinski as they go into the Wohlthat Mountain Range in the Antarctic in search of unclimbed peaks. This is a part of the world that has seldom been visited in the past, and what these four men discovered there is almost completely uncharted.
In this episode, the team discovers a mountain that they decide they want to climb. It is a shark-fin peak that would be daunting in almost any environment, but in the Antarctic, where the weather can change in an instant, it turns into quite an ordeal. This is extreme exploration and adventure at its finest, at the Katabatic series is allowing us to watch it play out right before our eyes. Amazing stuff to say the least.
More about → Video: Katabatic - Episode 3
In this episode, the team discovers a mountain that they decide they want to climb. It is a shark-fin peak that would be daunting in almost any environment, but in the Antarctic, where the weather can change in an instant, it turns into quite an ordeal. This is extreme exploration and adventure at its finest, at the Katabatic series is allowing us to watch it play out right before our eyes. Amazing stuff to say the least.
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