RRC Archives

Have you ever pulled through the crux on Bandolier and gotten right up above that bolt. . .you know, holding onto that gaston. . . and noticed that you didn't have a draw? No? Don't know how that'd be possible? Read on:

My buddy is working on his lead head, decides he'll do Bandolier, gets to the bolt below the crux and asks if I'd mine finishing. No problem, no sweat. I pull the rope (I lowered him to the ground first), tied in, checked my knot, had him check my knot, checked the gri gri, he did the same. Climb up, clip a bolt, climb up, clip a bolt, etc. What a great climb.

Now, this is our warm up climb for the day and as I'm going through the crux I'm feeling a bit cocky because I'm not pumped and last time I lead this I was. I pull up to the gaston, set my feet and reached for a draw. . .which are still hanging on my belayer's gear loops.

hehe, nice 8)

you just learned the value of the buddy check thing... the rope team needs to work together-good job on firing the line though

Yes, we thought we had the checklist down: check the knot, check the belay device and the rope, make sure everything's doubled back. I guess we'll have to add: bring draws, a rope and make sure your head's out of your ass.

nice.

It would suprise me if it was anyone but you

Rhino, I know you wish you were there so you could have given me your famous: "Man, you don't want to fall from there."

I'm wondering who was on belay and am so sorry we weren't there to offer some words of encouragement!

Ox was belaying.

Been there, done that.

That's why I always have at least a sling and draw on me -- so I can hard clip into the anchors and haul up a few draws!