Dick Culbert on Skywalker

[Optimally-Primed]

Now in his 70s, Dick Culbert made an historic return to Forked Flume/Skywalker yesterday. Not having rock climbed in 40 years, having had knee-replacement surgery a few years ago, he decided to climb the route anyways.

The style was traditional. Not being one to use rock shoes, he decided to climb in boots. The belay device was also news so I led with a hip belay. Thankfully, we coaxed him into a harness.

Behind was his daughter, Heather, and son, Vance (with partner, Kirsten).

[squamish climber]

Thanks Jeremy, Dick, Heather, Vance, Kirsten

Talking about taking a climb and a climber out of retirement. It's pretty inspiring to see that getting older, even forty years after hanging up the rock shoes is not an impediment to tying in and climbing again. Keeping the spark for adventure burning a la Dick Culbert certainly helps. It's also cool to see two generations of a family climbing together. Those are some good memories I bet.

I really liked the historical perspective that Dick shared, even using a hip belay and tied slings. Jeremy I think this in one example where renewing a climb and equipping it with modern hardware has value beyond just digging out a great line. It keeps the history alive and gives a nod to those who came before us.

[BK]

Jer, I second what SC just said and I'm hoping that Dick and yourself discussed the next obvious culbert route - Mayday , leading up to Wild Turkey!

[Optimally-Primed]

In the Chief today...