19th Falzarego – still

19^th Falzarego – still

So with a decision made last night that we would give the climb a go on Sass de Stria. We set off early to try to get on the route before others. Eventually after a steep ascent we made it and eventually found the start of the 7pitch route. We could see a group above us, but before we had even got on the climb and Italian couple came up and told us to be careful as they had only one helmet! Generally the route was ok (considering the amount of climbing I have done recently) apart from a large boulder which was in our way at belay point 5. Lawr overcame the obstacle and I lost my bobble and even on a tight belay had a flap, but there was only one way to go and the Italian couple were annoyingly on our heels, literally, the whole way up. They were also being pressed by about 8 other climbers behind them, but the views from the top were great. After a refuel and I had a look for my bobble and think I found it semi intact. We set off down more trenches and fortifications from the war. It must have been awful in winter up here.

Met a couple from Aviemore who gave us some more routes to look at.  Feeling really tired back in the van. The adrenaline must be subsiding.

Sass de Stria

Highs – Hextenstein route grade 4+

Lows – being pressed all the way and climbers climbing at my heels, flap at boulder (Wendy only!)
Note – Italians climb like they drive.