Much has been going around the internet about Todd Skinner’s death Monday while rapping off the Leaning Tower in Yosemite. The report from the scene is that :
His harness broke. It was old and worn out, and he had a new one on the way in the mail.
Born in Pinedale, Wyoming, Skinner learned climbing techniques from his father, with whom he started climbing at age 10. Since then, Skinner accomplished more than 300 first ascents in 26 countries. He had practiced all climbing disciplines, from bouldering to Himalayan ascents. However, his main asset was free-climbing big wall routes. His most famous achievement was the first free-climb to El Capitan’s Salathe Wall (VI 513b), teaming up with Paul Piana. That climb almost ended up in tragedy, since a huge rock hit the climbers right after reaching the summit, leaving Todd with broken ribs and Piana with a broken leg.
If that isn’t a sad reminder for all of us to check our gear regularly, I don’t know what is.
The above article is quoted from Gear Up Blog.
Even though he is an accomplished climber, i’m quite sure many, like myself, have heard little or nothing about this person until this post. He isn’t a nobody. He is in fact, claimed by many to be the most diverse climber of his generation. Boulder, Himalayan expedition, free climbing, he has done them all.Note: Our Team does not encourage or condone free climbing.
To the detailed report of the incident, visit SFgate.com.
To read more about Todd Skinner, visit beyondthesummit.com
To find out about the updates and everything about Todd Skinner, visit his website where you can palce yourself on a mailing of a DVD compilation of the climber. Part of the proceeds will go towards Skinner Memorial Fund benefiting his family (he is surivived by his wife and three young children).
