I've never done this route, despite its classic status. Coincidentally I was talking to someone on Wednesday night about doing it on my next trip as an easy day out. I may still do so but certainly won't be treating it lightly.
This is a sad event that touches us all. I know many people have logged on to Chockstone to find out more details, which may never come to hand. With that in mind, any assumptions about the cause of the accident need to be guarded.
The point I wanted to make is to suggest or remind leaders to place gear, even on easier ground. For those that are gym-strong and climbing 20+, or even those climbing regularly and confidently in the 16-18 bracket, it is often tempting and sometimes justified to just run it out when the terrain eases.
But holds can break, you can get off route, rope drag can turn grade 10 into 18, or a dozen other things could happen. Placing an occasional piece of pro where you really don't think it's needed might make all the difference one day.
Play hard play safe all,
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