ABS Youth Nationals and the Malibu Roof

Well, it's been a couple of weeks since I've updated, and a lot has happened in that time. I spent last Thursday through Sunday in Colorado Springs, CO, coaching at the ABS Youth National Championships, enjoying a few days in a climate other than California's constant sunshine.

Natalie, Charlie, and Sami, all from Rockreation LA, made a great showing at Youth Nationals.
Natalie managed to flash all four qualifying routes on day one (going into semis tied for first place), but re-tweaked her sprained back on the third semi-final and barely missed making it to finals (by one point!) Charlie also flashed all four of his qualifying problems on Friday, and climbed very well on Saturday and Sunday, securing him an 8th place finish. For full results, click here.

Natalie Josefsberg flashing qualifier number 3

and 4

View of Pike's Peak from my hotel room window.

Walking around Garden of the Gods on Saturday before semi-finals

Some dudes climbing some sketchy sandstone at Garden of the Gods

We returned Sunday evening, and Monday I set my boulder problems for the new set at Rockreation LA. Check out the steep side of the boulder if you get in there, there are some fresh new problems!

On Wednesday, Maya and I ventured out to Malibu Creek State Park, so that I could try to send Chubbs aka The Malibu Roof, featured in my last post. Here are some beautiful pics Maya took from the day.

Walking in to Malibu Creek State Park

Lichen

 

Me traversing back to get my additional crashpads at the end of the day. The other guy was rocking a wet suit and kept jumping in and swimming, while I aimed for the opposite.

The Rock Pool

While I didn't send it first try, I did on my second! Luckily for me, my friends Alex and Dara were there to capture a repeat of the ascent on Dara's iphone for the uncut footage. Check it out below.


Untitled from Dara B on Vimeo.


After the long hike out (well it sure seems long if you're carrying three crashpads) Maya and I went to one of our favorite LA spots, Malibu Seafood, for a delicious dinner. You can't really beat sunset on the ocean and a plate of amazing fresh fish.

Psyched to have sent (twice!), I felt I deserved a big meal.

Full moon over the PCH, what a perfect ending to the day.

Stay psyched everyone and see you out on the rocks!!