Climbwallah

Soon to come-- Rocktrip 2012in April

2012-01-31T17:08:00.000+08:00

In Mallory's words

2011-06-27T14:31:00.000+08:00

“The first question which you will ask and which I must try to answer is this, ‘What is the use of climbing Mount Everest?’ and my answer must at once be, ‘It is no use.’ There is not the slightest prospect of any gain whatsoever. Oh, we may learn a little about the behavior of the human body at high altitudes, and possibly medical men may turn our observation to some account for the purposes of aviation. But otherwise nothing will come of it. We shall not bring back a single bit of gold or silver, not a gem, nor any coal or iron. We shall not find a single foot of earth that can be planted with crops to raise food. It’s no use. So, if you cannot understand that there is something in man which responds to the challenge of this mountain and goes out to meet it, that the struggle is the struggle of life itself upward and forever upward, then you won’t see why we go. What we get from this adventure is just sheer joy. And joy is, after all, the end of life. We do not live to eat and make money. We eat and make money to be able to enjoy life. That is what life means and what life is for.”

Rocktrip 5th Year

2011-04-18T15:51:00.002+08:00

Yema, Northwall, Atimonan

2011-01-10T22:55:00.000+08:00

Bladerunner contemplation

2010-12-07T11:44:00.000+08:00

Camp 1 Twilight Zone

2010-09-02T22:29:00.000+08:00

Got back myself to trek again. A weekend break and am off to Banahaw de Tayabas' Camp 1 with UP Mountaineers. My mountaineering family, though I am not officially a member. T'was a fine day indeed, not much sun, but with enough wind to fan the heat and exhaustion of hiking. I am thinking that these very hour, friends from Philippine Airlines Mountaineering Club (PAL-MC) are trudging the country's highest summit in Davao.

Will post some pics soon -- it's simply nice to be back on the trail again!

That Pulag mystique

2010-05-08T15:45:00.000+08:00

On the way to Pulag

2010-04-30T15:21:00.001+08:00

Taken by Bea, it's not everyday/hike that you see how your back looks like, as we all go forward.

On the way to Nirvana. Om shanti..

Tayabas Mountaineers, Mt Apo

2010-03-17T12:55:00.001+08:00

Nagsasa Traverse, Zambales

2010-02-26T10:27:00.000+08:00

Stupidity of the day: Using an ascender as belay device

2010-02-03T11:16:00.001+08:00

Bladerunner

2010-01-26T21:23:00.000+08:00

It's better to travel

2009-10-22T17:55:00.003+08:00

Am back! :)

2009-10-21T16:42:00.002+08:00

Finally after a long hiatus, am back.. as in back to trekking!

Goaded by some friends and also by the newly formed BDO Mountaineers, I told myself, why not? As friend Jong Narciso put it well " 'dun naman tayo nanggaling!.."

Come Saturday I'll be meeting them, and start their BMC's..something to look forward to.

The mountains are waiting friends..

JB leaves

2009-07-07T08:59:00.003+08:00

John Bachar, climbing legend, left.. somewhere, somehow we're orphans..

A Must See

2009-05-19T09:18:00.003+08:00

Madame Souza: Is that it, then? Is it over, do you think? What have you got to say to Grandma?

Champion: I think that's probably it. It's over, Grandma.

- Les Triplettes de Belleville

Made it to the news!

2009-04-23T08:48:00.002+08:00

‘Tinandog Wall’ lures climbers

By Delfin Mallari Jr.
Inquirer Southern Luzon
First Posted 00:33:00 04/23/2009

THE LIMESTONE cliff in the roadside of the village of Tinandog in Atimonan town in Quezon was about to be blasted by a quarry firm 10 years ago when a Philippine Daily Inquirer story came out and helped stop its ruin, according to a Protestant pastor who initiated efforts to save the natural rock figure.

Pastor Noel Suministrado of the United Church of Christ in the Philippines based in Lucena City said that the rugged stone hill known as the “Tinandog Wall” was now a popular haven to local and foreign rock climbers, who would keep coming back for a steep and challenging ascent.

Tinandog Wall

It is now one of the five major rock-climbing destinations in the country, along with the Wawa Gorge in Rodriguez (formerly Montalban) town in Rizal; El Nido in Palawan, Cantabaco in Cebu, and the Putian and Nautod Walls in Dingle, Iloilo.

Suministrado attests to how the Inquirer story generated so much attention and contributed to the conservation of the cliff.

Most of the residents draw drinking water from many wells found in the vicinity as limestone deposits are known to be capable of holding and storing water.

Heavenly crafted

The Tinandog Wall also serves as a natural typhoon barrier and hosts a number of endemic flora and fauna.
In March 1999, Suministrado disclosed the plan of a quarry firm to blow up the rock face that he and his fellow mountaineers discovered two years earlier as a “heavenly crafted” climbing wall.

He wrote then Governor Wilfrido Enverga to seek immediate action and appealed to the quarry operator to spare the wall. His campaign succeeded.

When Suministrado posted his discovery on the Internet, he found himself hosting a number of Manila-based and foreign climbers in his place in Lucena on their way to Atimonan. Several globally known rock climbers contacted him online.

Virgilio Vila, a former barangay (village) councilor and owner of part of the land where the limestone cliff rises, said he was astonished when Suministrado and a foreigner arrived in 1997 to climb it. “We were not aware that the rugged stone wall is one sporting site,” he said.

Routes

The wall has four takeoff points – Windy Wall, North Wall, Practicum Boulder and Main Wall, the highest at 130 feet.

The climb itself takes different routes, some of them curiously tagged “Desperado,” “Dear God,” “Fire Inside” and “Pocketful of Dreams.”

“The name of the route was given by its first ascender. Mine is the Veronica’s Arete route,” said Suministrado.

The “Extreme White” and “Buffalo Soldier” routes are the most difficult based on the Yosemite Decimal System (YDS) rating given by the climbers themselves, he said. The YDS is considered the standard grading system among rock climbers worldwide.

“Height is not the primary factor. Also considered is the level of difficulty and the moves required to make a successful climb,” Suministrado explained.

He said his group started in 1997 with only a few ascending routes to the summit.

“Several years after the publication of that Inquirer story, the wall is now marked with several bolted routes, each one with its own challenging degree of difficulty. But there are still lots of unexplored routes,” he said.

“Tinandog is often described by rock climbing buffs as a mini-Montalban. Although Montalban has several walls to climb, Tinandog offers more diverse routes,” he added.

The Tinandog Wall is accessible from the Maharlika Highway. One can arrive in the morning, enjoy the wall the whole day and leave by bus back to Manila in the afternoon. Travel time to Manila is 3 ½ hours by car.

Vila and Suministrado said they had so far no records of accidents involving the Tinandog Wall climbers.

http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/regions/view/20090423-200869/Tinandog-Wall-lures-climbers

Bladerunner

2009-04-20T16:44:00.001+08:00

Chris Lindner, eh?

2008-10-07T11:42:00.002+08:00

Camp 1, Banahaw de Tayabas

2008-06-27T13:15:00.003+08:00

Summer Climbing in Atimonan

2008-06-11T16:15:00.007+08:00

Neil Belen seconds Veronica's Arete , Main Wall

Karl Suministrado on Acidic , Windy Wall

Amy Mallari cranking Sidesteps

Pinas Fontainbleau?

2008-05-02T09:29:00.007+08:00

Somewhere in Quezon lies this boulder problem ( and lots of them in this forest ) ..ala Fontainbleau..

Big Wall Atimonan Update

2008-04-22T10:06:00.003+08:00

Finally the base of the climb with Macky, Allen and Ronald. Hacking through the thick undergrowth, came the base of the climb. Quite steep, the approach, but the base is wide enough to accomodate climbers.

Waiting for the second phase, that is ground up climb.

Next week, I'll be there..pictures to follow..

The Master of Big Wall writes..

2008-03-26T17:11:00.003+08:00

Got a warm surprise today; it's from the man himself -- John Middendorf.. John who??

Here's what Wikipedia says:

John Middendorf (born 1959 in New York City) is a big wall rock climber, who achieved world-wide recognition in the rock climbing world when he climbed the East Face of Great Trango Tower in Pakistan with Xaver Bongard in 1992. As a lightweight, two man team, they were the first to climb the 5000 foot vertical rock face of Great Trango Tower to the summit and make it down alive. (The eastern face of Great Trango Tower was previously climbed by a team of Norwegians, who unfortunately died on the descent).

The climb is considered the most difficult big wall in the world, and required 15 days and nights to climb the route, and three days to descend, using portaledges designed and constructed by Middendorf in his shop (A5 Adventures, Inc.) The route ushered in a decade of difficult big wall climbs in remote places around the world.

-------------------

Dear Pastor Noel-

Thank you for the kind words, and I would be very happy to see any pictures of your big wall in the philipines if you have them. Better yet, if you could share them on www.bigwalls.net then go to the "Forum", that would be very cool!!

All the best in your vertical endeavors.

cheers

John Middendorf
Lynx Geosystems/Geospatial

Wishtrips

2008-03-03T13:29:00.003+08:00

1. Apo Island, Dumaguete
2. Sierra Madre Range, Baler
3. Donsol, Sorsogon
4. Malapascua Island, Cebu
5. Alabat Island, Quezon

------

March -- Summer's start; ready the tools of the trade. I wish someone would come up with me and try the 300 footer Pinagbanderan Wall in Atimonan. Thing is, since this is a big wall project, lots of logistics ( and will to climb) would be entailed.

I have already scoped some possible routes, but big wall leaders are in short supply, busy bouldering maybe :)

Any takers out there??

Sir Edmund Hillary, 1919-2008

2008-01-11T09:35:00.000+08:00

"Well George, we finally knocked the bastard off."

– Hillary's first words, to lifelong friend George Lowe, on returning from Everest's summit

Akyat

2007-08-29T17:46:00.000+08:00

Daming bundok,daming mga bato; pero iisa pa ring akyat. Iisa ang dahilan, ang makarating sa tuktok at makita kung ano ang nanduon.

Maraming nagtatanong, ano ang naruon? Ano ang dahilan kung bakit nagpipilit makarating sa iisa rin namang patutunguhan.

Maraming sagot; iisang dahilan.

Nuon, madalas akong manghatak ng makasama: kahit sino, basta na lang maka akyat. Pero unti unti, nakita ko na ang pamumundok, at ang pag akyat sa bato ay di para sa lahat. Na hindi pare pareho ang nakikita namin. Ito ang dapat isa alang alang, at sa huli ay dapat ding igalang.

Maraming nakilala, yung iba naging kaibigan: nakasama, nakilala, nakasalamuha. Ngunit sa paglipas ng panahon ay nagkanya kanyang landas na rin. Yung iba nagpatuloy, yung iba nakalimutan, yung iba naman iba na rin ang pinagkaabalahan.

Tuwing tinitingnan ko ang mga larawan nang mga akyat na ito, muli kong nakasama ang mga bundok at alaala nito -- at dun ko mapapag tanto na di ako iniiwan ng bundok at mga bato; hindi sila umaalis.

Sa huli, kami pa rin ang magkasama ng mga bundok at bato: sa gitna ng ibat't ibang mga dahilan, ang landas patungo sa bundok at bato ay iisa pa rin.

Naghihintay.

To remind..

2007-08-08T15:01:00.000+08:00

"When climbers die," she says, "I hear lots of people saying, 'Oh, well, it's OK—they died doing what they love best.' I don't think that at all. You should make sacrifices when you have children, because they need you. People say, 'If climbers didn't do what they love to do, they would die inside.' Well, excuse me, but there are other people involved in life, and you're not an island, especially when you have a family. I can only go by how I felt growing up in that situation. I felt abandoned. I felt like I was less important to my father than that mountain. I still feel that way."

- Andréa Harlin Cilento, daughter of American mountaineer John Harlin II who died while climbing Eiger

Banahaw in a day!

2007-05-04T09:07:00.000+08:00

May 12, Saturday.

Banahaw in one day, alpine style.. quick and light as Gerry Ulanday describes..

Dramatis Personae :

Gerry Ulanday : Philippine Sport Climbing Champion, 1997, UP Mountaineers.
Joey Cuerdo: Founder, Power Up Climbing Gym. 1997 UPM President.
Henry Nakpil: Present UPM President.,Nepal trekker.
Romi Garduce: Pinoy Everest summiteer

and me, le guide..

Abangan ang kasunod na kabanata!!!

Mt. Maculot Climb Pics

2007-02-25T11:28:00.000+08:00

Banahaw, friday afternoon

2007-02-14T12:49:00.000+08:00

bukas, nasa maculot kami

2007-02-06T12:22:00.000+08:00

doc robert, arren and i will find ourselves in the summit of mt maculot tomorrow..we'll be leaving cavite at 3am, and be at cuenca at 4:30..by 5:30, we'll be halfway depending on our pacing. by daybreak, we'll be at the rockies, sipping our coffee.. before the sun gets hot, we'll be descending..

alpine style, tropical mountaineering; what a way to start the day..

Mt Pulag Climb

2006-09-27T11:36:00.005+08:00

Garduch!

2006-06-05T14:32:00.000+08:00

"The world is a better place to live in because it contains human beings who will give up ease and security in order to do what they themselves think worth doing. They do the useless, brave, noble, divinely foolish, and the very wisest things that are done by Man. And what they prove to themselves and to others is that Man is no mere creature of his habits, no automaton in his routine, but that in the dust of which he is made there is also fire, lighted now and then by great winds from the sky."

-Walter Lippmann

Dale Abenojar, mountaineer (daw!)

2006-06-01T17:08:00.001+08:00

Look at this summit photo. (3 minutes minimum!)

Does it look like Everest?

This guys claims so..

( Pagbigyan natin ang ilusyon ng taong ito..ito he he he, afterall, altitude lowers one mental capacities, heightens ego, and are known to induce hallucinations! And is the thumbs up sign for your then main sponsor President Ramos?)

Go dream, boy! (libre yan he he)

----------------------------------

Here's a reprint of Boboy Francisco's email ( founder of UP Mountaineers):

Boboy Francisco to UPM-Oldies
8:04 am

Madalang akong mag e-mail dto sa oldies natin simply because I am not that computer literate, kaya isipin nyo na lang laki ng sakripisyo at dusa mag type nito. Di ko lang talaga mapalampas na di magsalita about Dale, I thought I saw the last of Dale when Butch Sebastian and I wrote then President Ramos to stop giving support to Dale's Everest attempt because it was a scam. How could a personality like Dale go up Everest kung Mt, Hakcon lang e di pa n'ya maakyat,

Eto yung kwento: Sumama si Dale sa isang akyat ko sa Halcon kasama ang mga kaibigan natin sa HALMS, sila Dicky, Efren atbp, Nahirapan ang Dale, umiiyak sa hirap, Dumating ng 9pm sa Camp 1, ayaw na raw n'yang mag summit, di na daw kaya, baba na lang daw sya kinabukasan.Kinabukasan, pinasamahan ni Dicky sa isang miembro nila na bumaba si Dale, Pati daw sa pagbaba, nahirapan, kesyo ang daming dahilan, Dinala si Dale sa bahay ng isang Halms para dun matulog, ng maihatid, agad umalis yung nag guide sa kanya w/out explaining, Nang tanungin sya ng host nya bakit sya bumaba agad, eto ang sagot " 'yung Sir Boboy n'yo at mga kasamang umakyat, mahihina, nakuha ko ang Halcon ng one day up at one day down." Nang malaman ito ni Efren (siya ang President ng HALMS that time), sinundan si Dale sa pier, pinitsurahan at binalaan na 'wag na s'yang tutungtong sa Calapan!

Eto pa, in an article written in Inquirer Magazine noon, to explain kung bakit wala na sya sa UPM (expelled s'ya sa 'tin), sabi nya, "I got out of the U.P. Mountaineers because my penchant for the daring no longer fits the organization." Isa pa, in the same article, sinabi nya as part of his accomplishments, "I have climbed ALL Philippine Mountains, I was the one who discovered Matulid River, I was the first to cross Palawan, east to west, solo (pero di nya minention may kasama s'yang 2 local guides) in 12 days ( 2 years earlier PALMC hosted our federation climb bringing 160 so mountaineers accross the same route in 3 days).

Naku, marami pang ibang kasinungalingan ang pinagsasabi nitong Dale na 'to para lang bigyan sya ni Ramos ng $90,000 para sa Everest nya nun, Imagine, ilo- launch pa sana sya ng ABS-CBN as the new Filipino Youth Hero. Nagpatawag ang ABS-CBN ng launching para i-endorse si Dale ng Filipino Climbing Community. Siempre, di dumating ang Dale, masama daw pakiramdam nya. Yon, nagulat ang ABS ng malaman nila na pinagluluko lang sila ni Dale, lalo na si Ramos, was fuming mad daw sabi ni former Senator Cayetano, who happens to be Butch's father in- law (sya nag abot ng letter namin ni Butch.)

Naku, tumataas na naman blood pressure ko, tama na nga, pabayaan na nating pumunta ng Everest 'yang lintek na yan ng mamatay na dun.

Ge Muriel, mountaineer

2006-06-01T09:18:00.000+08:00

"O femme dangereuse, ô séduisants climats !
Adorerai-je aussi ta neige et vos frimas,
Et saurai-je tirer de l'implacable hiver
Des plaisirs plus aigus que la glace et le fer ?"
- Charles Baudelaire.

2006-05-26T15:27:00.000+08:00

"Everyone praises the views you get from mountain tops, but no one talks about the views that they block."

— Nils Kjaer

UPM Prexy Henry Nakpil joins Garduch in Everest Base Camp

2006-05-24T17:17:00.000+08:00

For the mountain and a friend, Henry Nakpil, president of the University of the Philippines Mountaineers (UPM), flew to Nepal last month.

The trek to the Base Camp of Mt. Everest, the roof of the world, is the first international climb of Nakpil, a mountaineer for 17 years.

Yet as important as the climb, Nakpil wants to keep a promise he made to his friend, Romeo “Romi” Garduce.

Nakpil says he that since late ‘90s he had made plans with Romi to trek together to some of the world’s highest peaks. “I promised Romy I would join him in New Zealand, but failed. I promised to go with him in Chile, but failed,” says Nakpil, 35. “I thought I should make it this time.”

Nakpil left for Nepal on April 13.

Interviewed at the UPM tambayan (hangout) in UP Diliman campus before his flight, Nakpil held on to a book about Nepal. He says he read as much as he could about Nepal and the Himalayan mountain ranges, home to Mt. Everest and 13 other famous peaks in the world.

“There is a big difference between a traveler and a tourist,” explains Nakpil. Like most UPM members, Nakpil says he wants to be known as a traveler who likes to understand the life and views of the people he visits.

To prepare for Nepal, Nakpil brushed up as well on what he heard was “Base Camp politics” at Everest.

Standing at 17,600 feet, the Base Camp has turned into a village where climbers stop to prepare tents and gears before ascending the summit. About 300 climbers, amateur and veterans alike, from different countries are expected to converge this summer at the Base Camp.

“Going there is like being a new recruit in a big office,” says Nakpil. “You wouldn’t expect veterans to accommodate neophytes like me. You must learn the rules, such as where to pitch your tent.”

The climb does not worry Nakpil, despite his history of asthma and allergies. He says his doctor even wanted to know how his body would react to the extreme cold at Everest, that at times dips to minus 20 degrees Fahrenheit.

“I am unsure if my medicines would work when I have asthma attacks there,” says Nakpil.

Searching for changes

Nakpil joined UPM in 1989 as he searched for change and challenge.

“My world was only studies. I had very few friends,” Nakpil recalls, saying he thought of joining UPM as giving new direction to his life.

He almost quit during his first climb at Mt. Famy in Laguna, but “I felt a sense of pride when I returned to the lowland safe.”

His second climb, to Mt. Cristobal in Quezon, was more difficult, but gave him more confidence as a budding mountaineer.

Soon, there was no stopping Nakpil from reaching some of the highest peaks in the country, including Mt. Pulag in Benguet, Mt. Halcon in Oriental Mindoro, Mt. Banahaw in Quezon, Mt. Guiting-Guiting in Romblon, and Mt. Talinis in Negros Oriental.

“I stayed on until I found my purpose — to travel, to be lost in the wilderness and be attuned with nature,” says Nakpil, who holds a degree in mechanical engineering.

Supportive family

Nakpil is thankful that his family supports his decision to go to Mt. Everest, the crown jewel for every mountaineer.

“My mother volunteered to hold a thanksgiving party for us on our return,” says Nakpil, whose family is into catering business.

Nakpil expects to return from Nepal in the first week of June. This trip would be by far the longest time he would be away from his wife, a fashion jewelry designer, and two children, both girls aged 5 and one.

It is the elder child who worries for him, Nakpil says. “Knowing I would go to a mountain covered with snow, she fears I would die like the warriors who were buried in an avalanche in the animation movie Mulan.”

Through his earnings as graphic designer in the family business, Nakpil has opted to cover expenses for his trek, including the two-way plane fare to and from Nepal of $900 (P45,900) and local guide fees of $1,300 (P66,300).

Already he has arrived at the Base Camp of Mt. Everest, and there reunited with his friend Romi, as well as the five-person GMA-7 Team Everest.

While the summit is still just a dream, Nakpil says his trek to the Base Camp would lead to higher goals in his mountaineering life.

He also says the journey will help him immerse with the people, the ultimate goal of every climber.

Source: GMANews.TV

Me, Amy, and Henry in the first pitch of Veronica's Arete, in Atimonan, Quezon, 2005

Filipino Everest Summiteers

2006-05-18T15:34:00.000+08:00

Heracleo "Leo" Oracion - Lucban, Quezon, Philippines
Erwin "Pastor" Emata - Davao City, Philippines

Note: As of this posting Romeo "Garduch" Garduce (Balanga, Bataan, Philippines) is making his summit bid. Godspeed Romy!

(Update, May 24, 2006 : "Garduch" made it to the summit of Mt. Everest, making him the third Filipino to ascend the world's highest peak on May 19, 2006, 11:15 a.m., Nepal time)

Mabuhay kayo!!!
--

"The first question which you will ask and which I must try to answer is this, 'What is the use of climbing Mount Everest ?' And my answer must at once be, 'It is no use'..

There is not the slightest prospect of any gain whatsoever. Oh, we may learn a little about the behavior of the human body at high altitudes, and possibly medical men may turn our observation to some account for the purposes of aviation. But otherwise nothing will come of it.

We shall not bring back a single bit of gold or silver, not a gem, nor any coal or iron. We shall not find a single foot of earth that can be planted with crops to raise food. It's no use. So, if you cannot understand that there is something in man which responds to the challenge of this mountain and goes out to meet it, that the struggle is the struggle of life itself upward and forever upward, then you won't see why we go.

What we get from this adventure is just sheer joy. And joy is, after all, the end of life. We do not live to eat and make money. We eat and make money to be able to enjoy life. That is what life means and what life is for."

— George Leigh Mallory, 1922 ;last seen near the summit with Irvin.

---

It is heartwarming for all of us that finally a Filipino stood in the summit of the world's tallest mountain. It makes us feel once more united and the collective spirit once again lives. As mountaineers, all of us have Everest dreams!

But is its disheartening to note that majority of us thinks that mountain climbing is a race. It is not. In a world where competition is the name of the game, I humbly ask for an understanding that that mountaineering be spared of this idea. It is not. Hindi po karera ang pag akyat sa bundok! It is first and foremost a test of will and resolve, and personal glory comes in second.

It doesn't really matter now to me who made it first -- the most important thing is that a Filipino finally made it!

--

My Birthdate/ A Route Up Everest Made:

Northeast Ridge Standard Route, May 25, 1960 - Wang Fu-chou (Chinese), Chu Yin-hua (Chinese) and Gongbu (Tibet).

Manila Bulletin, May 11, 2006

2006-05-11T09:22:00.000+08:00

Anticipating an Atimonan rock climbing adventure
Thu May 11, 2006

BY Redge Jimenez

ROCK climbing may be an unpopular sport to most due to its dangerous nature. It is highly recommended, however, that one should try even once in their lifetime. Why? Like traveling, you get to explore and learn a lot from rock climbing, especially made ‘unforgettable’ because you literally experience life at the edge! Don’t worry; climbing is a safe sport since you are adequately protected. All you need is a reliable gear, good company and a lot of guts!

I had been anticipating for this trip for quite some time since this is my first time to climb a real rock!

The road to adventure

Atimonan in Quezon province is known for the sinuous zig-zag road or popularly known as the "bituka ng manok." It is located inside the Quezon National Park. Though Atimonan also has a variety of beaches and historical sites, its rock climbing area is worth a visit. But for rock climbers, the municipality is a destination to experience an exhilarating rock climbing adventure.

Rock climbing in Atimonan is ideal between November to January and preferably during a dry season. The site is 165 km south of Manila, and since it is near, one could even take a public bus which plies through the Alaminos-San Pablo-Lucena route. One of the terminals is located in Cubao. During the trip, the Morong-Pagsanjan-Lucena route is a very scenic road that offers a picture of the rustic countryside. Since numerous public and private transportation pass through that road to reach Southern Luzon or the Bicol region, it is very much prone to traffic. Travel time is around three to four hours, so it is advisable to bring a book or an iPod to entertain oneself and bring merienda on board, just in case you get stuck in the road.

The rock climbing area is almost beside the Maharlika Highway specifically in Bgy. Tinandog. The site used to be a rock quarry area so it is advised, especially for first-time ascent climbers, to wear helmets due to the nature of the rocks (limestone).

The established climbing routes are at about 10 to 40 meters in height, with a range of difficulty levels. Depending on the climber’s skill and ability, one could climb on a top rope or the traditional "trad" climbing (for individual or a small group). Complementing the difficulty level is the level of protection. The higher you go, the need for a more secure protection.

Climbers are advised to bring tents and related camping paraphernalia. The camp site is only about several meters from the climbing area. Just be sure that you pitch your tent in the unshadowed by the towering coconut trees or else you’ll get knocked out by falling coconuts. Before any activity can be done at the site, climbers should see Kagawad Billy Vila first (at the house situated at the entrance of the climbing area) for registration.

Finding food, in case your group didn’t bring any, is not a problem. A nearby carinderia offers home-made food sold at a reasonable price. Or, you may have it prepared by a host (thru Ka Billy) if you are in a big group. The locals are friendly and accommodating and can assist you in preparing your meals.

Know the sport

Top rope climbing is relatively the safest among the climbing methods because the climber’s rope is passed through an anchor at the top of the wall. In case he/she falls, the climber is belayed down (a method of controlling the rope so that the climber won’t fall) safely. Trad climbing involves the "leader" placing all the protection (without the rope supporting the climber from above). The leader may climb alone or in a small group (in our case – three individuals). The climber wedges or sets the protections on the rocks and attaches the ropes with anchoring devices such as carabiners as he arrives to the pitch. The climber/s may go down by walking or rappeling.

Rock climbing, especially trad climbing, was not very encouraging before because of the cost of equipment such as the protection gear and other devices. However, because of the availability of indoor climbing gyms or outdoor climbing groups, bringing only your basic gear is now possible. Just ask or join these groups and they would be glad to have you as company – whether you are a serious climber or just a "curious adventurist."

For beginners, it is best to start in indoor sport climbing gyms. If you are an ultimate beginner or climbing on a tight budget, you could rent your basic gear such as climbing shoes and harness at the gym.

According to Joey Cuerdo, general manager of Power-up Gym, "Sport climbing would not only make you fit – since it involves full-body workout – it develops your self-esteem and self-confidence because every climb challenges your fear of falling."

With regular workouts, your performance gets better every time. Then, you challenge yourself to do more difficult routes and try to conquer those challenges. Aside from giving you a sense of accomplishment, sport climbing improves your overall physical form since this is an arduous exercise that involves a lot of muscle groups in the body.

The difference between indoor and outdoor climbing is that the former mostly have artificial rocks (or holds) drilled into walls (some walls have textured fiberglass). There are also "guides" or pre-labeled routes of different difficulty levels. Also, in indoor gyms, your comfort zone is high (top ropes and sufficient cushion in case of a botched belaying job). It is very different from outdoor climbing since you rely on your protection and your trusty belayer. Outdoor climbing is pure adventure!

The ascent

My adventure started when I tried top rope climbing in several routes in the two main walls: Windy and the North Wall. About half of the 30 novice and advanced climbers were assigned to either of the walls.

We started to climb the North Wall in the afternoon. With about 40 meters of vertical mass of limestone either pockmarked with holes of different sizes and features, flakes and marblesmooth features. Each of us cued on each route eager to face the challenge in doing either lead or top rope climbing. Every route has a particular problem for the climber. One would need more arm power to move yourself up or balance for tricky positions. Almost all of us succeeded with our chosen routes. The view from the top is the endless stretch coconut plantations and a verdant rice field. The harder routes where we must have fallen (with a rope, of course) will have to be left alone until we get back stronger and more skilled.

On the second day, we tried the Windy Wall. It wasn’t windy as it was named though. Perhaps because of the scant vegetation around the area, wind can pass through. Also with that, sunlight beamed directly at us. Notwithstanding the heat, we explored the interesting features of the wall. There are a lot of huge pockets which seemed like a landscape from another planet. But such pockets are deceiving because some are shallow, only permitting the fingers to hold your balance, if not weight. It is not as high as the North Wall, probably about 10-20 meters high, but it was, in a way, as difficult.

The most memorable is the 120 ft. high wall called "Veronica’s Arete" (spine, in Italian). It was my first time to do trad climbing in two pitches. With Pastor Noel doing the lead, Nonoy belaying and I tied to the end of the rope as the anchor, we have scaled this wall in two retrievals of the ropes. Nonoy followed the lead while I climbed while I was belayed at the ledge. We gather at a ledge to collect the length of the rope and start climbing to a higher level. We did this twice, hence the two pitches.

Those who went ahead to the top of the rock wall can’t help but scream; their voices piercing through the crisp morning air. It is indeed a unique experience of "working your way to the top." The way down is through rappelling. It is also a memorable and somewhat painful experience. Some of my hair was caught in between the entwined ropes and left me without a choice but to "let them go" so I could go down.

The texture of the rocks are varied. Some are almost sharp as a flint. It would be advisable if your hands are taped for protection. Exploring the "holds" is one of the most exciting aspects of outdoor climbing. You should know how to make "diskarte" or how you search the varied surfaces of the wall and get a good grip and foothold. Sometimes you get surprised upon learning a new technique by yourself such as hand jamming (sticking your fist into relatively large cracks to hold your weight), stemming (scaling the wall through pushing your hands and feet on either side of the wall at the side of your body – similar to the position of Da Vinci’s Renaissance Man), using your fingernails on a small crack to pull yourself sideways, etc. The possibilities are endless!

My first big-wall (outdoor climbing) experience had left me anticipating for more places to explore and rocks to conquer. For more information, visit http://bato.scapi.org, or contact Rev. Noel Suministrado at 0921-3368121 and Mackie Makinano at 0927-7385492.

That's Redge redeeming herself in All Expenses Paid, The North Wall, Bgy. Tinandog, Atimonan Quezon Philippines.

Happy faces, Redge and Nonoy completes Veronica's Arete.

Pinoys in Everest

2006-04-10T16:31:00.000+08:00

Why Climb Everest?

As a mountaineer and sportsman, you will always yearn to scale greater heights despite the physical risks and the insurmountable challenges ahead of you. Climbing Mount Everest is not onlly having the glory of reaching the highest point on earth, but it is a way of showing the human spirit of perseverance and determination to achieve what is perceived to be the impossible.

The First Philippine Mount Everest Expedition is a big test to show the indomitable spirit of the Filipinos in sportsmanship. It is through this extraordinary feat that the Filipinos can show his perseverance and derermination in achieving a daunting task, that given the focus and direction of energies, the Filipinos can achieve triumph in the midst of extreme challenges.

ART VALDEZ
Expedition Leader
1st Philippine Mount Everest Expedition

-----

Thoughts on the E attempt

Ideally, I would prefer to just climb on my own, quietly, rather than
'advertise' or announce my plans to public. It's a pressure and a heavy
load to carry, to be the first to attempt the big-E. Imagine the whole
nation is watching you, expecting something. I was hoping before that
somebody attempts it before I do, but - - it's been 52 long years and
nobody has attempted it yet, nor even got sufficiently ready to try,
somebody has to, and now... I'm already in position to try it. It's the
ripe time, and I have to climb it, it's like - it's not my choice anymore..
I must climb it!

I see that my role is also evolving, I've shared before that I see E as 1
giant door to open, and with it, other possibilities and adventure
opportunities await. So now I see my role not just as a climber, but a
gate-opener, a ribbon cutter. I may or may not climb the peak, but making
the attempt alone already brings major significance in the history of
mountaineering and adventure sports here, it means we are now taking on the
challenge. To win something, you need to act -- to realize a dream, you
need to make your first step - and this is, our first step! Our first
step to glory, our first step to victory.
---
Some people think this is a race, well this is far from being a race. It's
a collective effort towards a common goal. How I'd wish somebody is here
right now, ready to make an attempt with me, I'd prefer a small team than
be a lone Pinoy trying to top the Great peak.

But as they say, "Better to execute a good plan now than a perfect plan
tomorrow". I'll act now.

Romi "Garduch" Garduce
First Filipino 8,000 meter summitter, attempting Everest this May

Tools of the Trade

2006-04-03T15:52:00.000+08:00

Have you hugged your rack lately?!

Unggoy In the City

2006-03-22T11:04:00.000+08:00

The other climber, seen and photographed, trying to break free

Climb on!

2006-02-07T14:28:00.000+08:00

--
"In a sense everything that is exists to climb. All evolution is a climbing towards a higher form. Climbing for life as it reaches towards the consciousness, towards the spirit. We have always honored the high places because we sense them to be the homes of gods. In the mountains there is the promise of... something unexplainable. A higher place of awareness, a spirit that soars. So we climb... and in climbing there is more than a metaphor; there is a means of discovery."

— Rob Parker.

The Mountaineer's Will

2006-02-07T14:01:00.000+08:00

"Having disposed of my material possessions, I now turn to those items I hold in great esteem but which are without material value in this life. To all of my children I leave the most important things of my life: The sparkle of sunlight on the snow in the cool sunlight of the early morning after a new snowfall, the blue of ice in a serac poised against the blue sky, the clean firm grip of good rock, the music of a tiny stream in an alpine meadow, the smell of heather in bloom, the graceful tilted head of an avalanche lily, the clink of pitons and carabiners, singing of a primus in darkness at high camp, the flicker of flashlights in the pre-dawn climb, and the indescribable beauty of an Alpine dawn from high on a mountain. The feel of comradeship as the team moves swiftly up the face, the moments when fingers of fear clench at your insides on exposure, and perhaps moments of terror, the knowledge that life and death are sure, swift, and true.

But above all, I leave to you my beloved children, those few short moments of attainment and peace on the summit, secure in the knowledge that you have conquered not the mountain so much as yourself. Those few moments in the sunlight you share with God, who has written his signature all about you as you sit in the magnificent cathedral in the sky created by God, for God, and which we mortals share but a brief time. Where you must accept the ultimate truth that we have but one end to our short life, before you descend again the burdens of the world, to shoulder the cross of responsibility to the family.

I know not whether or not you, my children, will follow in my steps to the Alpine world, and yet, knowing all too vividly the mountain dangers, I also fear that you will. But whether you go to the high places or view them from afar off as the sunset paints a crimson glory across and as the light slips from the mountain meadow, remember the restless spirit of your father amid the moss and heather seeking ever his eternal rest with God."

— Paul M. Williams, the Mountaineer's Will.

Patty in action

2006-02-06T14:53:00.000+08:00

--

"The world is a better place to live in because it contains human beings who will give up ease and security in order to do what they themselves think worth doing. They do the useless, brave, noble, divinely foolish, and the very wisest things that are done by Man. And what they prove to themselves and to others is that Man is no mere creature of his habits, no automaton in his routine, but that in the dust of which he is made there is also fire, lighted now and then by great winds from the sky."

— Walter Lippmann, journalist.

Via Ferrata, Aussois, France, Summer 2000

2006-02-06T14:44:00.000+08:00

Look ma, no hands!
--

"One final paragraph of advice: Do not burn yourselves out. Be as I am — a reluctant enthusiast ... a part-time crusader, a half-hearted fanatic. Save the other half of yourselves and your lives for pleasure and adventure. It is not enough to fight for the land; it is even more important to enjoy it. While you can. While it's still here. So get out there and hunt and fish and mess around with your friends, ramble out yonder and explore the forests, encounter the grizz, climb the mountains, bag the peaks, run the rivers, breathe deep of that yet sweet and lucid air, sit quietly for a while and contemplate the precious stillness, that lovely, mysterious and awesome space. Enjoy yourselves, keep your brain in your head and your head firmly attached to the body, the body active and alive, and I promise you this much; I promise you this one sweet victory over our enemies, over those desk-bound people with their hearts in a safe deposit box and their eyes hypnotised by desk calculators. I promise you this; you will outlive the bastards."

— Edward Abbey.

Cut and Paste

2006-02-06T14:25:00.000+08:00

One of those moments when you just want to paste yourself to the rock...

Seconding Ali Baba and the 40 Thieves, 6b Le Corne, Mont Saleve in the Swiss- French border of Geneva, Switzerland, Spring 2002.
--

In this short span between my fingertips and the smooth edge and these tense feet cramped to a crystal ledge, I hold the life of a man..

-Geoffrey Winthrop Young

Decide...

2006-02-06T11:49:00.000+08:00

The moment of truth..
--

Where protection is not assured by a usable crack, long unprotected runouts sometimes result, and the leader of commitment must be prepared to accept the risks and alternatives which are only too well defined. Personal qualities - judgement, concentration, boldness - the ordeal by fire, take precedence, as they should, over mere hardware... But every climb is not for every climber; the ultimate climbs are not democratic. Doug Robinson

Photo/Illustration from Climbing Magazine

Le Coin, Mont Saleve, Geneva

2006-02-06T09:34:00.000+08:00

You cannot stay on the summit forever; you have to come down again. So why bother in the first place? Just this: What is above knows what is below, but what is below does not know what is above. One climbs, one sees. One descends, one sees no longer, but one has seen. There is an art of conducting oneself in the lower regions by the memory of what one saw higher up. When one can no longer see, one can at least still know.

-Rene Daumal , Mt. Analogue

Hands

2006-02-06T09:32:00.000+08:00

--

"Nothing illustrates the basic irrationality of climbers better than the code that says you don't leave good equipment behind. Rappel points are set up with the very pitons and sling rope that you consider too cheap and unsafe for climbing. To use expensive equipment for this is deemed an ostentatious display of wealth, a cowardly act or inexcusably bad planning."

— Nick Clinch.

My Climbing hero, Steve Roper writes...

2006-02-03T11:44:00.001+08:00

" hard men sometimes had to get down and dirty to enhance their reputations..”

Yvon Chouinard and I were having a splendid time climbing in Yosemite Valley, then one day a notorious climb beckoned. The Lost Arrow Chimney was an ugly route, but hard men sometimes had to get down and dirty to enhance their reputations. This climb, a fearsome, rotten gash some 1,200 feet high, had been climbed only eight times since its first ascent in 1947.

There was an additional problem, however: the smashed body of a teenager reposed halfway up this ominous slot. He had taken a hideous fall from near the Valley rim the year before, and the rangers had decided to leave the corpse and place the route off-limits for a year—as if anyone were lining up for it.

Before our climb I decided to scout the approach from the Valley floor, since time-consuming slabs and brush led upward 1,500 feet to the start of the climb. Hours later, sweating, I arrived at the rope-up spot to find a few shards of skull and a boot containing a sock full of tiny bones. The kid was returning, very gradually, to his home in the Central Valley.

And then I did something bad. Eager to impress a waitress at the lodge, I took a large piece of skull and headed down for dinner at the coffee shop. I laid the specimen on the table, where of course it enlivened the conversation, but the waitress was appalled, as she should have been, and reported me to the rangers. The next day I was headed back up the hill with my souvenir, told by the outraged rangers to return it. So chagrined was I at my behavior that I gathered up all visible bone fragments and buried them in a splendid rock cairn I built a hundred feet distant.

Chouinard and I went up a month later and did the route. He found another piece of skull 50 feet up and tossed it over his shoulder with the cry: “Skull!” Hours later I swung around a corner on tension to attain the main chimney. We knew the body would be close by. Sure enough, on a ledge I came suddenly upon shattered bones, shreds of cloth, and, oddly, a near-perfect mummified arm. Chouinard and I had been curiously silent for an hour or two, so to break the tension I yelled down to Chouinard, “Goddamn it! His parka doesn’t fit me!”

From the book Camp 4 : Recollections of a Yosemite Rockclimber, Steve Roper
“Many people during the ensuing years asked me if this whole sorry episode were true. I assured them that it was a preposterous myth dreamed up by my enemies. But of course I was lying.” Roper, himself a veteran of over 400 Yosemite first ascents, was at the center of rock climbing during the golden decade of the 60s. He and his cronies shaped the future of rock climbing in Yosemite and their influence and style reverberated throughout the world. In the rowdy, rambunctious world of Yosemite, Roper and his partners took on a Ginsberg-like aura and will be remembered as the “beat poets” of American climbing.

--
Of note:

Emailed him once, and heavens! a response from the Master!

Sent : Friday, November 17, 2000 4:10 PM
Subject : Re: Just hello's

Hi, Noel,

All I do is climb in the gym now. Winter has
arrived. Lucky you to see real snow, and glaciers only an hour away.
Don't work too hard!

Interesting times in Phillipines and Florida!

Steve

Atimonan Rock Climbing Atimonan, Quezon, Philippines

2006-02-03T11:41:00.000+08:00

Atimonan rock climbing is relatively new and therefore bolted routes are non-existent yet. First ascent climbers are warned of falling rocks (that’s why helmets are mandatory) and placing of your own pro requires judicious judgment on the part of the climber because of the inconsistent nature of limestone. There are lots of belay points and natural anchor points (small trees, boulders, cracks) . The rocks are relatively clean, except for some areas that are vegetated and some routes become are gullies during rainfalls. Those wanting to put up bolts are advised to inform the author below; there may be trad routes that might be bolted accidentally.

Climbers are advised to see and register with Kagawad Billy Vila (the house at the entrance of the climb) for record purposes. Climbs are better in the afternoon, the rock faces the morning sun. Best times to go there are the months of November (though there are chances of rain yet), December, and January. Summer months are also okay, provided you don’t climb in midday, and expect a lot of heat. In case of rains, abort the climb immediately; gushes of water form mini waterfalls that makes bail-outs difficult and unsafe (especially in the Main Wall area). There are some established rappel points with abseil rings in Veronica’s Arete and Acidic installed by this writer; but their integrity should always be kept in mind. Back it up if necessary.

Eats and treats abound, food can be bought in nearby sari-sari stores. Atimonan town proper is only 5 kms. from the rock climbing area and fresh seafoods (relatively cheap!) can be sourced there. Mountain biking can also be fun in the nearby zig-zag road of Atimonan National Park where the famous "eme" or that M-shaped circuitous road that the Tour of Luzon popularized. Those fond of watersports can check out the beaches of Atimonan, though the coral reefs have long been gone. Day hikes can are also possible in Quezon National Park and there are already established trails. There are a lot of unexplored caves in the adjacent Bgy. Sapaan that the locals are advising for the author to explore, but that is another story.

The town is relatively peaceful, and the people are friendly, but as in other parts of the country, be mindful of your equipment and personal belongings, as they can become temptations to some. Climbers and other visitors are strongly advised of the "no trace" camping ethic (meaning everything non-biodegradable should be packed out).

That glorious September afternoon in Geneva, Switzerland

2006-02-03T11:23:00.000+08:00

With the city of my affections in the background, the picture is complete in that happy September afternoon of 2001

Le Vormy, French Alps ca.2000

2006-02-03T11:21:00.000+08:00

--

"We do not deceive ourselves that we are engaging in an activity that is anything but debilitating, dangerous, euphoric, kinesthetic, expensive, frivolously essential, economically useless and totally without redeeming social significance. One should not probe for deeper meanings."

— Allen Steck, 1967

Between Air and the Rock. moi

2006-02-03T11:20:00.001+08:00

Leading a 6b climb, in Le Corne, Mont Saleve, Geneva

--

"All men dream, but not equally. Those who dream by night, in the dusty recesses of their minds, awake in the day to find that it was vanity. But the dreamers of the day are dangerous men, for they may act their dreams with open eyes to make it reality." — T.E. Lawrence (Lawrence of Arabia).

Ian "Eyean" Orteza

2006-02-03T11:18:00.000+08:00

Ian seconding "Ali Baba and the 40 Thieves", Le Corne, Mont Saleve, in Geneva
--
I HAVE just finished reading Mr. De Quiros' columns ("Cynical" and "Cynicism"). They made me smile. There is nothing wrong with cynicism except that dictionaries over the years have given it a bad meaning. A cynic is just a disgruntled idealist. Cynics are not whining malcontents but individuals who are keen observers and are quick to take notice of his world's follies and foibles. A cynic makes truthful comments that offend the defensive and the insecure. He brings the mirror in which others see their faults. He writes parodies and satires that reflect his world gone to the dogs. He makes other people trip over their own statements that make fools of themselves. He could be acerbic and scathing but never sarcastic, for he believes sarcasm is the recourse of the feeble mind.I wish to go on... Antisthenes or Diogenes would be proud of that article as I am -- reading it. It's a nice warm feeling to see fellow cynics abound. I am in my mid-30s and have lived most of my life as an oxymoron -- an optimistic cynic... and a Filipino.

IAN ORTEZA, Geneva, Switzerland

Rap Bolting

2006-02-03T11:14:00.000+08:00

rap·pel bolt·ing , noun: fixing bolts in rappelling: in sport climbing, the fixing of bolts into a rock face by a climber who will be using a rappel rope. also known as rap bolting

The closest thing to heaven ( or hell, as hours in a climbing harness is really torture) , dangling up 120 feet on a 10.5 mil. dynamic ropes, while drilling this stone. started early morning and Mackie seems to be bent on finishing the route: drill, clean, bolt, hammer, tighten, test -- so mechanical.

Three hours later, two routes converged and almost done.

What's a good name for this one? I'm thinking of :

1.Gay's Ways
2. Fool If You Think
3. Paradiso

The clouds eastwards are fast moving in.. the cold breeze announcing the imminent rain -- ah, bravo! the rains have done their part spoiling the day. bail out, no choice. grudgingly, i fix my ATC and rap down, in the torrential rain..

Soggy and cold, we retreat, the only consolation -- a Snicker bar and some water.

Try again..maybe next week. retrieved my two year old draw on a rusty hanger.

--

Then, sorting out the hardwardre: 'biners, descenders, ascenders, slings, chocks,nuts, Friends, hexes, ropes, with chalk dusted energy bars and lemon flavored water-- metallic gems and tools of the trade.

Climbing Better than.. :)

2006-02-03T11:11:00.000+08:00

WHY CLIMBING IS BETTER THAN SEX (a man's perspective):

1. When you climb, you only have to get yourself to the peak.
2. If you climb with someone other than your regular partner, no one gets mad, in fact, you can all three climb together and share protection!
3. You can reuse your protection, and someone else even cleans it for you, provided you don't put it in too deep.
4. There IS such a thing as being too overhung.
5. You can get belayed without first bekissing.
6. A good hand jam can be as satisfying as any other kind of jam.
7. No matter how many times you fall off, you can always climb back on.
8. Having a belay slave is not a criminal offense.
9. The rocks never expect you to call afterward.
10. Dry friction is a positive quality when you're climbing.
11. The rocks don't care if you show up late.
12. The rocks don't complain after 7 or 8 pitches.
13. When you're climbing, a good two-finger jam will support your body weight.
14. Your belayer never hesitates when you yell "TAKE!"
15. When you're climbing, weird body positions are considered "cool".
16. The rocks don't scream for help when you try for the on-sight flash.
17. The rocks don't complain when you don't want to do cracks anymore and want to do some face.
18. A three-finger pocket isn't too big.
19. You don't have to wait an hour after getting pumped-out.

WHY CLIMBING IS BETTER THAN SEX (a woman's perspective):

1) The rock is always hard.
2) Rocks are never busy watching football when you'd rather climb.
3) Rocks don't complain about the kind of protection you want to use.
4) You can go climbing with another woman and nobody will call you names or hassle you.
5) You can use ropes and harnesses and nobody will think you're kinky.
6) You can go climbing any time of the month.
7) It's over when *you* reach the peak.
8) You won't die of embarrassment if your mother finds your rock gear.
9) If it's in too deep, you can yank on a nut.
10) Nobody ever got pregnant rock climbing!
11) If you need something REAL big, you can always put in a Big Bro'!

Acidic ; 5.3

2006-02-03T11:10:00.000+08:00

One of the first routes I did in the Windy Wall..

A Perspective From Above

2006-02-03T11:08:00.001+08:00

Mountaineering is not always thought of as a sport; it seems an arguable point. However that maybe differs from other sports in that in principle no contest for glory among men, only man and the forces of nature, or men and his own weakness.

With a few rare exceptions, the climber has no renown to hope for, and no audience to encourage him apart from his companion on the rope. Alone among the silence and the solitude of the mountains, he fights for the joy of overcoming his own obstacles by his unaided powers.

In its simple original form, no other sport is so disinterested, so removed from human considerations, and it precisely in this kind of purity that much of its grandeur and attraction lie…

--

"If the conquest of a great peak brings moments of exultation and bliss, which in the monotonous, materialistic existence of modern times nothing else can approach, it also presents great dangers. It is not the goal of grand alpinism to face peril, but it is one of the tests one must undergo to deserve the joy of rising for an instant above the state of crawling grubs. But soon we have to start the descent. Suddenly I feel sad and despondent. I am well aware that a mountaineering victory is only a scratch in space But in spite of this, how sad I feel at leaving that crest ! On this proud and beautiful mountain we have lived hours of fraternal, warm and exalting nobility. Here for a few days we have ceased to be slaves and have really been men. It is hard to return to servitude.."

- Conquistadors of the Useless
- Lionel Terray

French mountaineer and alpinist, first to summit Annapurna together with Maurice Herzog and Louis Lachenal, an 8,000 meter peak in the Himalayas, 1950.

Atimonan Routes

2006-02-03T11:06:00.000+08:00

Km. 165 , Bgy. Tinandog, Atimonan, Quezon
PRACTICUM BOULDER

Sail Away 5.0
Wet and Wild 5.1

WINDY WALL

Acidic 5.1
Sidesteps 5.5
Black Route 5.4
Extreme White Route 5.10b
Camless Crack 5.8+

MAIN WALL

Veronica’s Arete 5.5
Espasol 5.3
Gumboorumboo 5.2
Twist and Shout 5.9
Dear God 5.9+
Fire Inside 5.9
Pocketful of Dreams 5.6
Paparazzi’s Way 5.0
Smells Like French 5.7
Looks like French 5.10
Swiss Cheese 5.9
Swingout Cafe 5.0
Spacewalk 5.6
Desperado 5.6
Soul Taker 5.9
Desperado Direct 5.8
Inside Out 5.8
Stretchmarks 5.10

NORTH WALL

All Expenses Paid 5.7
Hello, Mike Test 5.8

Gear Sort Out/Show!

2006-02-03T11:02:00.000+08:00

The tools of the trade, with Neil and Amy...

Neil

2006-02-03T10:59:00.001+08:00

--

To put yourself into a situation where a mistake cannot necessarily be recouped, where the life you lose may be your own, clears the head wonderfully. It puts domestic problems back into proportion and adds an element of seriousness to your drab, routine life. Perhaps this is one reason why climbing has become increasingly hard as society has become increasingly, disproportionately, coddling.

A. Alvarez , The Games Climbers Play

Amy Mallari Cranks Pocketful of Dreams

2006-02-03T10:58:00.000+08:00

--

"It begs the question who is the one being entertained ? The guys like to look at the girls, so they think that they win, but we get to look at a whole selection of guys who are often willing to take us climbing at times and places that our experience may not merit were we just another guy."

Climbing!

2006-02-03T10:54:00.000+08:00

Top roping Pocketful of Dreams, 5.10a, Main Wall, Atimonan, Quezon