The first adventure of my 27th year began with rock climbing a historically significant route in Idyllwild, CA with a few of my close friends on my birthday.
When Royal Robbins first climbed Open Book in 1952, it was the hardest free climb in the country and the first 5.9. When I first asked Austin to lead me up the climb as my birthday present, his face lit up and he agreed enthusiastically. In fact, when I asked any of my climbing friends about the route, they all had the most positive things to say. A few even said it was the “perfect” climb.
The climb was nothing short of exhilarating. 490 feet of granite glory. Austin led all 3 pitches and I followed him up each pitch, removing the carefully placed camming devices and returning them to him when I reached him atop each pitch as we advanced towards the top. I was fully engaged. The zone that you are in when only attached by a thin rope and the tops of the tress are hundreds of feet below is hard to describe to those who have never stood on the edge.
When we topped out on Lily Rock and Nick, Gabby and Alicia were there to meet us with lunch; I was mentally and physically exhausted, pumped out, bloody and grateful to be alive.
As we sat on the summit looking out over the valley below, I felt ready for another year to explore the truth and beauty of life. Thank you all for joining me as we turn the page and begin the next chapter!
Yours in adventure,
~Toby
Looks and sounds pretty nuts. Way to open the next "chapter." Hopefully I can join you on some of your adventures.
Cheers.
Congratulations on climbing that huge rock! I was terrified at times taking the back route! You constantly impress me and make me want to achieve more out of life.