Graham Repeats V15, Makes V14 FA
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5/2/12 – Dave Graham reports that last week he made the third ascent of Paint it Black (V15) in Rocky Mountain National Park, and also established several first ascents in an area called Wild Basin. Daniel Woods establishedPaint it Black in February; just two weeks ago, Paul Robinson bagged the second ascent.
Graham had high praise for Paint it Black on his 8a.nu scorecard, saying “I love this boulder problem, and I think it’s an excellent addition to the circuit here in RMNP.” The problem snakes up a 65-degree overhanging prow on a hillside. Woods described the crux as “two high-tension foot moves to a hard right foot kick” with slopers and tiny crimps on near-horizontal terrain. Graham worked the problem for nine days, having the most trouble with the “foot kick.”
Earlier in the week, the ever-psyched Graham established a V14 called The Grey in Wild Basin, calling it “one of the best climbs I have done in the United States. Pure, aesthetic, tall, and in a majestic valley.” This compression climb contains crimps, toe hooks, and a very slopey finish. The same day, he finished a new problem called Dead Meadow (V13) that follows a crescent-shaped crimp feature followed by arete and face climbing until a dyno finish. He also established another V13 called Tetris in the same area a few days prior.
For some scale on how Graham spent a couple weeks in April, he’s made six Colorado first ascents V11 or harder. Check out his full list here.
Date of ascent: April 25-28, 2012
Source: 8a.nu
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