The Prophet | 8b/E9 Multi-pitch

19 pitches.
Contributors: remus

Pics + Vids

Leo Houlding
Added at 16:08 on 21 August 2023
Leo Houlding
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Added at 20:01 on 09 January 2023
Leo Houlding
Added at 20:01 on 09 January 2023
© Leo Houlding

Ascents

1 recorded ascents.

Climber Style Ascent Date Suggested Grade
Leo Houlding Lead (Worked) Between 22nd Oct 2010 and 27th Oct 2010
First ascent.

Belayed by Jason Pickles who seconded most of the route except the crux A1 beauty pitch and the Devil's Dyno.

I attempted the crux A1 beauty pitch, as hard as anything I ever climbed. Solid E9 7a, we called it 5.13d R but I think 5.14a R is fair.

After repeatedly failing, including once from the jugs at the top, with homebound flights the very next day we were all but defeated.

On the absolute last try, in the midday sun against all odds, I somehow connected with a force beyond myself and did it.

I don't think I'll ever come closer to the edge and walk away victorious. Those experiences are the best. [1]

References

[1] https://www.instagram.com/p/CGpcyocjh5l/

[2] https://www.planetmountain.com/en/news/interviews/leo-houlding-interview-after-the-prophet-on-el-capitan.html

[3] https://www.ukclimbing.com/news/2010/10/leo_houlding_frees_the_prophet_-_el_capitan-58588

[4] http://www.elcapreport.com/content/elcap-report-102710

[5] Leo discussing the successful ascent of the crux pitch with Steven Dimmitt on The Nugget https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JnQw2w5R4eo