Val di Mello 2012

Rain in Italy and sunny blue skies in Newcastle, what is that all about?

Last week Andy, John, Carol (Andy his parents), Amber and I went to Val di Mello for a few days. For Carol it was the first trip away since Andy his bleed in December 2010. For me it was the first climbing related trip away since August 2010. 

Andy and I have visited Val di Mello several times. Both of us have good memories of the area (e.g. both standing on the podium of Melloblocco). Although I was really looking forward to this trip, I didn’t really know what to expect of it. It would be great if I could climb a little, but I would sign up for some time chilling in the sun as well. 

Unfortunately it rained two out of the four days we were there. And climbing with the little one around, didn’t turn out to be as easy as I had hoped. Amber didn't really appreciate me climbing ‘away’ from her, leaving a vertical barrier between us. It took her a couple of hours to understand climbing a boulder was an achievement and not something scary. Having her grandma around to tell her that probably helped. As soon as she realized climbing was a fun thing to do (for her mum), she clapped her hands every time I send a problem. Bless her. 

This trip certainly made me aware of a few things. First of all, if I want to go on a climbing trip again, I need to be as fit as I can. With the little one around, I don’t get as many goes on a problem as I used to. So I’m best sending the problem as quick as I can. Secondly, any area which involves walking uphill or over (even the smallest) boulders is a No-go. Andy couldn’t get to most of the areas his path was blocked by (little) boulders. Basically, if amber (a 17-months old) can’t get to an area, Andy can’t. They pretty much have the same ‘mobile-ability’ at the moment. Last, having to travel too long distances isn’t any good either. It took us about twelve hours to get to Val di Mello. By the time we got there, Andy was so exhausted, that it took him the next four days to recover. 

Even though this trip didn’t turn out the way I had hoped for, I’m pleased we went. It sounds stupid, but this trip has thought me a lot again. It also motivated me even more to train hard again and go away more often. And yes, it was nice to be able to finish of an old standing project, and to flash or second-go most of the 7a/+ I pulled on to. 

One thing is sure. My memories of Val di Mello are still very positive. I just added a few more, very important people to these memories. Thanks for coming with us John and Carol and of course Wambi-Woo (Amber).

 Me warming down on one of the problems close to the hotel

Lunch Time