Results
Climbers from as far away as Italy came to check out the Valdez Ice this last weekend. They found the ice and about 60 other climbers enjoying the climbing and the camaraderie this unusual sport attracts.
The event opened with a barbeque down by the beach on Friday, and, after a group breakfast on Saturday, headed for Keystone Canyon. All the Major waterfalls in the Canyon were ascended including Bridalveil Falls by 58 year old Ralph Tingey and his 19 year old daughter Daphne.
The drytool competition was held on some preset routes made by Teale and Paul Turecki. Eddie Phay of Anchorage was the overall winner with Bill Belcourt of Salt Lake City a close second. The routes were vertical to overhanging and provided a glimpse of the athletic ability these climbers posses. Sue Nott of Colorado and Kirsten Kremer of Alaska tied for first with Lori Bennet of Anchorage a close second.
Saturday evenings slide show at The PWSCC featured Notts “Alpine Madness” 60 people watch of Sues climbing exploits to Patagonia, Peru, Europe, and the Alaska Range.
Sunday's Events drew a number of Spectators to Keystone Canyon as the Speed Climbing had a record 27 participants with Jay Rowe of Anchorage toping the field. Contestant,s on a rope from above, were timed for the 120’ near vertical ice pillar. Rowe made the ascent in 1 minute fifty seconds with Paul Turecki a close 1:57. Phay was 3rd which due to his high finish in Saturdays competition won him the Overall event's winner and the Climbing rope from Phatz Ski Rental.
Other prizes were given away from other merchants including The Prospectors, Beaver Sports , Rodeway Inn and Black Diamond Equipment.
