Early Sunday morning, Theresa Avenue saw 17 keen climbers congregate and eagerly pack ropes and climbing equipment into backpacks before heading up Kasteelspoort hiking trail then branching off up to Barrier and Valken Buttresses, fighting through confetti bush to regather in the spacious cave at the base of Valken Buttress.
Splitting into groups of strong leaders and two moderately experienced seconds each, teams made their way up the striking high buttresses, swopping leads as possible. Most routes are 5 pitches long with interesting climbing and precipitous belay stances with great views. There are multiple challenges…. route finding, communication, judgment of rock quality, lichen and weaving a way off the buttresses.
Routes climbed were Valken Edge 17, Valken Corner 17, Barrier Frontal 14, Barrier Pinnacle 17 and a combination link up of Barrier Sandwich/Persona non Grata/Barrier Pinnacle 19.
After negotiating the steep loose descent gully and the tricky down climb with care then a short abseil, teams made their way back to the shady cave for a rest and a chat before making their way down the mountain.
Many thanks to all who attended, enjoyed themselves and kept themselves safe.
None of this would be possible without the help of generous leaders, Megan Beaumont, Aidan Bennetts, Christo Lotter, Amber de Decker, Werner van Dyk, Rik de Decker, thank you!
Photos from multiple participants.
