When my friend coach and I planned this trip to the Hulk to try Airstream, I did not know he was planning on bringing some of the ashes of our dear friend who had recently passed.
The meaning of this trip has changed for me now. To honor a friend and enjoy another climb with him.
Our first day there for coach and I was a bust. No climbing. Too windy we thought. And besides we had an extra day.
The next day we woke to Dark Skies but no wind. Time to climb. The first few pitches went smoothly and slowly, getting sprinkled on a little bit on the 4th pitch. But the real rain held off, and the clouds fly over us. Atop El Hulk Tower, AKA (El honk Tower) we spread some ashes and prepared for the next pitch. Neither of us showed emotion. this pitch guarded the cruxes above by two giant detached flakes you must climb over. Relieved to be done with that pitch it was time for the business.
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 the flakes pitch Credit: the Swami |
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I started into the 13B stemming, and before I knew what happened I was in a kneebar at the start of the slab/face Traverse. My nerves rattled me across the Traverse to the next anchor. The next pitch was beautiful! And nothing but fun. The clouds continue to float by and keep us company as well as the memories of our friend. Two more pitches bring us to the final Arete. My legs are tired and Shake all the way up that final pitch.
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 last pitch Credit: the Swami |
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 coach giving matt a hand Credit: the Swami |
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Coach exclaims! "Well honky we took you up the biggest baddest route in the Sierras we could find. I think you'd be proud."
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 summit smoke for Honks Credit: the Swami |
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