The beginning of this blog….

Tincann — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 06:57:35 +0000

As this is the first post I feel I should explain the main reasons for beginning this blog, which I plan on updating fairly regularly. I first began climbing in 2002 at the age of 14 in the Lower Wye Valley by seconding ‘Original Route’ on Wintours Leap. This is only a VDiff, but as anyone that has climbed it will know can seem a lot harder especially in summer due to chronic growth across it. This sparked a major interest in climbing for me and lead me to continue in the sport for the next five years. By the end of this time I was climbing most days and comfortably leading 7a/7b routes on a regular basis. In 2007 I witnessed a friend fall 60ft to the deck (due to misplaced gear sadly) and break his back in two places, rupture his spleen, puncture a lung etc. This took the shine off climbing for me and since then I have taken two years away from the sport and stuck to indoor bouldering. Last weekend I decided to take climbing up again and rediscover the amazing climbs the Wye Valley hides.

I feel it’s important to stress that I do not climb with the aim of pushing my limits too far, just for the enjoyment and freedom. I also wouldn’t claim to be an amazing climber, I have medium ability and mid grade routes suit me fine but the lack of competition is one of the major draws that makes it a relaxing and enjoyable hobby.

This said, there has always been one route that I have been desperate to add to my logbook and that is ‘King Kong’ on the famous ‘GO Wall’ at Wintours Leap. Arguably the most famous climb in the Wye Valley, and recently gaining a grade due to rock fall. I aim to complete this climb by the end of September this year, giving me 4 months to get completely back into the sport and increase my ability. This blog is mainly as a personal diary of my progress, although I will be commenting on numerous crags and climbs throughout the area.

Feel free to message me with any comments, questions about the area, recommendations etc

Be safe…then enjoy!

Tom x

PS. If you haven’t checked out this film then get on it. Amazing! E11 Trailer

Rock Climbing in the Lower Wye Valley

The beginning of this blog….