This week we were after a place to do some easy routes as lead practice for Chris, but with some challenge for Ryan & Robin. As me and Chris were in the office, Almscliff looked to be the most suitable based on location for something 'quick to get to'. What we didn't factor in was the commute time at ruch hour! doh! so
Robin, Ryan & Matt arrived first around 5pm and were getting ready for The Zig Zag (HS 4c)
I arrived shortly after and not long later Chris arrived. Chris and I went to look at Stew Pot (HVD). I led and Chris seconded. He felt the moves would be too much to attempt a lead himself. Low Man Easy Way (D) was next door which Chris easily led. Following this Chris and I went to Tight Chimney (M). This route wasn't as much climbing as caving, and Chris did very well overcoming the tight space (I was much more comfortable with the squeeze)
Once Chris and I had walked back round, Ryan was trying Zig Zag Direct (VS 4c) but struggling to get over a bulge half way up. Robin then gave it a go but still couldn't find a sequence that felt right. Having seen from the ground plenty of ways it didn't work, I gave it a go. After a few attempts managed to find a way to rock over to my right foot and ascend to the top.
(Side note: I get a lot of enjoyment when collaborating with others to crack a route)
Once on top rope, and with the beta cracked, Robin climbed up easily. Matt gave it a go but couldn't quite make the move stick but Chris managed it to clean up the final bit of gear.
By this time it was about 9pm. We packed up and headed to the Hunters Inn for a drink and debrief
