Gary was kind enough to help lead a group of my Basic Rock Students up the First Flatiron. We climbed the Fandango Variation route in two teams of three.
I had Michael and Chris (Team Rich Chile Caramels).
And, Gary took Ian and Erin (Team Yearning Air).
Team names were generated using our names plugged into an anagram machine (found online somewhere!).
I decided to try using my new twin 8.0 Mammut Phoenix 60m ropes-belaying my followers simultaneously using the ATC in the Guide Mode. With the help of my new home made PVC rope hook (thanks, Dennis!), it worked like a charm.
CMC Posse Approaching the First Flatiron
At the First Belay – Chris Flakes the Blue Rope
Michael Flakes Red
At Second Belay – Team Yearning Air on Party Platform
While Team Rich Chile Caramels Enjoy Laughing Ledge
Chris Excited About Exposure
Michael Loving It
Everybody Loves the Third Pitch – Chris Motoring on Up
Michael Cleaning Protection
Gary Wishing the Whole Climb was like Pitch 3!
Ian Smiles & Climbs
When we got to the summit ridge, we were met by another team of three. Typical 1st Flatiron Summit Ridge cluster. Gary told them to go ahead, but then they were going pretty slow. Team Yearning Air pushed ahead of them, while Team Rich Chile Caramels got stuck behind. We were separated for about an hour, as all 9 people raced for the rappel rings.
By the time we got there, Gary was rigging up the rappel. We descended and finished the climb around 4pm. Chris’ hubby met us at the finish and took our one group shot. Thanks!
Another Fun Day on the rock!
Tags: Basic Rock School, CMC, Fandango Variation, First Flatiron, Rock Climbing