Last year we installed 789 glue-in bolts and 91 anchors creating the first two professional developed sport crags in Saudi Arabia.
The Saudi Climbing and Hiking Federation have major plans to develop and promote climbing and the community in the Kingdom and we are very proud to be able to continue on as integral partners in 2019.
In October 2019 the team equipped 78 new sport climbs in KSA
This year the work was split across the country. First up was a much anticipated return to the aesthetic sandstone of Tanomah in the lush south-west. Then, we were going to open a new crag in Hariq, not far from Riyadh. Both crags are about 9 hours apart so we began with a long drive from Riyadh to Tanomah, crossing desert landscapes from the centre of the country to the south-west.
And, we had a new addition to the team this year. Introducing Abdulrahman Alabdu – local strongman, climber from the heart, Saudi Climbing and Hiking Federation board member and chief climbing instructor in the country. This was Abdul’s first time bolting with glue-ins and he hit the ground running, bolting some great lines during the trip. Amazing for the future of climbing in Saudi.
Tanomah
Sweet home Tanomah! That was our rallying cry during the ten days in October and it was like returning to our Saudi home – the people are incredibly open and welcoming down here in the south. It was also a good opportunity to inspect last year’s work – which we can say is looking great!
Last year we worked in the sun. This year we selected a large cliff in the shade offering perfect temps for the duration of the trip. This section of cliff has never been in the sun so the cliff had a lot of moss, lichen and dirt to clean, but what we uncovered with our brushes is nothing short of world-class.
Southern Hospitality
In between preparing and equipping a new crag and then climbing the pitches we don’t have a lot of time. One thing we make sure to do is spend time with our local friends and in a place like Tanomah, new friends find you, too.
Last year we made a great connection with some local guys who have taken us under their wings to introduce us to the region. This year we had a proper Arabic style camp grill, fresh bread made on the fire included! Check out his customized pickup truck! Later on the kindest gentleman from the local municipality recognized us and a full on underground Saudi barbeque night was had including distinguished guests.
These moments are precious and we really appreciate the genuine connections we’ve made and continue to maintain on the road and always can’t wait to return to see these guys. Shukran!
During two weeks in Tanomah the team equipped 40 unique lines from 5a to 8a+ and left a couple of projects for the next visit! It is so rewarding to climb our own creations and we always wish we had more time to just climb, but the drills were calling, onward to Hariq…
Unless otherwise noted, all of these photos are thanks to Will S. Lawrence/Streamline Drones who joined us on this trip to document the equipping process and the Saudi Bolting Project – Saudi Climbing and Hiking Federation’s development initiative. We had a great time working with Will and from the clips we have seen we can’t wait to see the full video. Stay tuned!
