The only thing that was really hard to square was the fact that Claire would be there filming the lead for the film we were making about the route and the whole preparation and concept of it. The thought of messing up in that situation was pretty gut wrenching. I figured all I could do was climb it perfectly and not settle for anything less. And so that’s what I did. That sounds a bit far fetched, but that’s how it was for me - I knew I was going to climb it, but the thought of that pain that would be caused to someone you are close gives you a level of effort and strength you wouldn’t otherwise have. I made sure I had it, and used it, and it gave me perfect focus on the crux. I felt like nothing could stop me getting the next hold all the way to that thank god jug halfway up the pitch.

For the rest of it, I just soaked up the amazing position climbing this huge bottomless arete so far above the gully floor, with nothing but my own ability and a couple of bits of gear to get me to the top. A powerful feeling.

All I need to do is find more of it… 

If you want to see the film we made of Echo Wall, you can get it HERE (Yes, we have NTSC for folks in the US).