The Moment

You came to this place with one thing in mind: This setting can’t be beat. You knew the line would be proud, but it is so much better up close, in person. You have done the moves over and over again in your head; the beta is dialed. It is the last day of your trip of a lifetime, and your departure looms in the very near future. Despite all previous efforts, the crux continues to shut you down. As the daylight dwindles, you are left with one last attempt, the absolute last go before you are forced to pack up and head home. The skin on your fingers has worn so thin, it feels like it might never grow back. All of the strength you’ve built up, training for this moment, is all but gone. Just before you pull on, your mind starts playing games. “Will it go? Am I on this hold right? Was all of my training for nothing? Will I ever see this place again?” The repeatedly rehearsed moves feel almost easy now, but the immense mental pressure builds as you near the top. After weeks of work, it has all come down to this moment. You live for moments like this. It is the culmination of years of effort and training. It is why you climb. It is what makes it all worth it. Now all that stands in the way of glory and satisfaction is the final huck to the finish hold…

FINISH HOLD GIVEAWAY

For Adam’s inspiring story and even more inspiring photos, he’s receiving a SIERRA DESIGNS GNAR HOODY (sierradesigns.com). Hopefully, the next time he’s on the final burn of a particularly difficult boulder, his new jacket will keep his sending muscles warm enough to latch that final hold.