Took advantage of the recent mild weather and headed to Dalkey early Saturday morning. Picked up Carlos at 8:30 from the Luas stop and after a quick stop to pick up some food supplies, we were on the rock at 9:30.
Since we hadn't been outdoor climbing since last September we started out in the East Valley with an easy lead on Diphthong (S, 4a). Carlos then lead Hiatus (HS, 4b). Feeling confident we both gave Stereo-Tentacles (HVS, 5a) a lead. Definitely had a few moments leading this route but a very enjoyable climb even with the committed moves.
We were joined by Barney and moved up to the Upper Cliffs in the afternoon. I had a long pumpy lead on Thrust (HVS 5a). Great climb with a physical first half to the climb and a few moments pause before the nervy traverse at the end. The 3 of us finished the route and abseiled back to the base before moving onto Graham Crackers (HVS 5a). Barney lead the route and when it can to my turn to second I took a good swinging fall from the first few metres. A good catch from Carlos and some attentive belaying from Barney stopped me before I did any damage. It did put me on nerve getting back on the route and finishing it. Definitely a route I will do again but not sure if I will lead it just yet.
We finished off the day with an easy multi-pitch on the Giants Staircase (S, 3c). Carlos lead the first pitch and I scrambled up the short second pitch. All in all a great start to this year's outdoor season.
Assuming we have reasonable weather next weekend I plan to head down to the Glendalough Bouldering Meet March 9th ~ 11th for at least one day.
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