12 / 01 / 2024
Over the last few days of December the weather has been great, which enabled me to get out with my friends and try and send some cool problems.
First up was Robin Hoods Stride/ Cratcliffe. This was one of the first good days in the last month for outdoor climbing. The temperature was brilliant and the sky was blue. I managed to send some really cool problems such as The Kid V6 (flash), Dry Wit in a Wet Country V7 or E5 (solo), Grizzly Arete V7, Razor Roof Link V8, Hueco Wall V7 and Bens Wall V9 (flash). It was a great feeling to be climbing on real rock again.
Above: Ed flashing Ben's Wall V9. Photo: Adam Bails
Next up was Stanage. We all went to try the Buckstone Dyno V8. After a few bad goes whilst trying to get warmed up, I suddenly managed to stick the top sloper. This is one of the coolest moves I have ever done on grit, its a must do!
Above: Ed holding onto 'that' sloper on the Buckstone Dyno V8. Photo: Adam Bails
After this there was still enough light to try the problem on the left called Spring Voyage V9. On my first attempt I fell going for the top hold, which meant it was on; I was psyched to try send it! In the end I proceeded to fall going for the last hold about 10 times but eventually stuck it. Another fun day out with my friends and finally getting some psyche back for the Grit!
Above: Ed on Spring Voyage V9. Photo: Adam Bails
Most of the problems meant a lot to me and got me psyched. My good friend Adam Bails (photographer) came along on both days and managed to capture some amazing shots, so here are a few of them. Thanks Adam! For more info on the pictures check out www.adambailes.co.uk (Minus Ten Productions).
Some great new is that I am venturing out to Turkey (Geyik Bayiri) for 2 weeks in January (3rd-17th) to test myself on some of the pumpy classics! I may see some of you out there!
Merry Christmas/Happy New Year to everybody!