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knitclimb
Jul 14, 2007, 2:47 AM
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rearranged this post to put the latest articles at the top Renowned climber is praised on fatal cliff-top http://www.independent.ie/...lifftop-1039283.html - Wednesday July 18 2007
In reply to: ROCK climber Michael Reardon pushed himself to the limit of his abilities, but ships were never meant to remain in harbours. Tribute was paid to the fearless way the solo climber lived his life, at a moving ceremony on the cliff-top overlooking his last dramatic climb on Valentia Island, Co Kerry yesterday. Up to 150 people gathered in sunshine to pay their respects to the 35-year-old American who was washed out to sea on Friday, after scaling the cliff-face twice. A hundred feet below, Navy and Garda sub-aqua teams scoured the sea-bed for any trace of the man renowned among climbers and mountaineers for his daring exploits without ropes or safety equipment. ... Missing rock climber's wife clings to hope he is still alive http://www.independent.ie/...l-alive-1038169.html Monday July 16 2007
In reply to: The wife and teenage daughter of the world-famous American climber who was swept out to sea off the Kerry coast are clinging to hope that he is still alive. Michael Reardon's wife, Marci and their daughter, Nicki (13) arrived in Ireland from Los Angeles at lunchtime yesterday and went straight to the cliff where he was last seen. There they met with rescue personnel involved in the search and watched as efforts to find the climber continued. Marci and Nicki are said to be hopeful that Michael is still alive as he is a particularly strong swimmer and a superbly fit man. A vigil is to be held for his safe return tomorrow in Valentia. The family were accompanied yesterday by Kerry mountaineer, Con Moriarty, a close friend of the missing man. Meanwhile, it has emerged that the photographer who was with Mr Reardon when he fell into the sea tried to throw him a rope. Visual contact was also maintained with Mr Reardon for some moments and he also responded to calls. The photographer then ran to alert the local lifeboat which was immediately launched. ... Rock climber swept off cliffs to his death http://www.timesonline.co.uk/...e/article2080434.ece - July 16, 2007
In reply to: ... Valerie O'Sullivan, a photographer from Killarney who had accompanied him on a number of climbs, told The Times that his death had shocked the climbing community in Ireland. "He was standing below a climb he had just completed and the photographer, Damon Corso, was about 30ft away taking pictures of him. "Michael was on a real high after the climb. He was about 10ft above the sea and he let go and had his hands out, celebrating, to say he had completed the climb of his life. But then a rogue wave just came in. "The wave hit him on the knees and he lost his balance and slipped on the algae. He was shouting for help but there was nothing Damon could do. Miss O'Sullivan said Mr Corso raised the alarm from his mobile telephone. "It is very unpredictable and there are some very powerful waves," she continued. "It's a bottomless pit made up of caves and caverns below the water. It is treacherous. ... Michael Reardon Missing in Ireland http://www.urbanclimbermag.com/
In reply to: Michael Reardon, 36, the accomplished free soloist based out of Oak Park, California, went missing off the southwestern coast of Ireland around 5 p.m. Friday. He had just completed a climb near the Valentia Marine Radio Station, on the small island of Valentia, when a rogue wave took him into the sea. He did not fall 70 feet from the cliff top, or while climbing, as earlier reports had indicated. This is a report from his friend, the photographer Damon Corso, who was there at the time: "It was just another day of climbing on Atlantic sea cliffs in Ireland with Mike (Reardon). We had arrived on Valentia Island in a slight fog and drizzle. Mike took me around the bottom of Wireless Point to an inlet merely 15 feet above the roaring Atlantic, a situation we were now used to. We arrived at a spot he had climbed at alone two weeks prior. Mike up and downed two different climbs while I shot photos trying to combine him and the raw force of the waves crashing all around us. He finished the two climbs and was waiting, on an-algae covered platform, for the big swells to pass by so that he could walk back over to me on the opposite side of the inlet. A rouge wave came into the inlet and curved rightwards as it crashed into Mike. He tried to stabilize himself on the platform but the water was too powerful and sucked him in. The current pulled Mike out 150-plus meters in mere seconds. I ran up the hill to the Valentia Coast Guard station a mile away. Mike was still conscious in the water when I left him. The Coast Guard arrived on the scene no more than 15 minutes after the incident. Mike was nowhere to be seen at this point. Twelve volunteer rescue boats, the Coast Guard Lifeboat and Chopper were on the scene that evening." Rescue services worked until dark on Friday. And on Saturday, more Coast Guard boats and divers from the Naval Service combed the area, with searchers on foot looking along the shore. A helicopter with an infrared scanner searched on Friday and Saturday as well. Reardon had not been found as of Sunday, when it was reported that the search was scaling back Please stay tuned to climbing.com for more. The press can contact msamet@climbing.com. Sources: Damon Corso, www.rte.ie Tragic irony of climber swept out to sea by freak wave http://www.independent.ie/...ak-wave-1037827.html - Sunday July 15 2007
In reply to: THE devastated photographer friend of world-famous rock climber Michael Reardon, who was swept away by a freak wave while standing on a flat ledge along the coast of Kerry, has spoken of the tragic irony of the incident. "The sad irony of it was that Michael wasn't climbing at the time. He was standing about a metre away from the sea on a flat ledge, which was only about three feet over the Atlantic, when a rogue wave came and knocked him over," said Con Moriarty. "It buckled his knees so he fell onto his back and slid down an algae ledge and into the surf where he was unable to get back again. He was carried by a current and was last seen a few hundred metres out, shouting and waving." Mr Reardon, an American in his early 30s and one of the world's leading free solo climbers, was staying with Mr Moriarty at the foot of the Macgillycuddy's Reeks, Co Kerry, during a month-long visit to the area, designed to promote Irish adventure holidays to the US market. "We were to have dinner later that night," the stunned photographer explained. "He was anxious to taste some malt whiskey before he went home. He was here for a month and due to go home yesterday." ... Search resumes for missing climber http://www.rte.ie/...2007/0715/kerry.html - Sunday, 15 July 2007 11:07 video: http://www.rte.ie/...7/0715/kerry_av.html
In reply to: The search has resumed for a missing climber from the United States who was swept out to sea off Valentia Island two days ago. ... other stories http://www.rte.ie/...2007/0714/kerry.html - Saturday, 14 July 2007 13:54 http://www.iht.com/...-Ireland-Climber.php - Published: July 14, 2007 http://news.sky.com/...0200-1275216,00.html - Updated: 11:25, Saturday July 14, 2007 some early news stories reported Michael had slipped on heavy kelp: http://www.independent.ie/...m-cliff-1037476.html
In reply to: ...Mr Reardon had been walking along the top of a cliff at Dohilla when he slipped on some heavy kelp and was unable to regain his footing. He plunged some 75ft into the sea below. The alarm was raised by his fellow climbers. initial stories: http://www.newstalk.ie/news.aspx?id=39473 - 13/07/2007 23:23:33
In reply to: A major search operation for an American man who fell 70 feet into the sea off the Kerry coast is winding down for the night and due to resume at first light The missing man is 32 year old Michael Reardon, from Connecticut... one of the world's leading Free Soloists.. http://www.rte.ie/...7/0713/valentia.html - Friday, 13 July 2007 23:19
In reply to: An air and sea search off the Kerry coast for an American tourist who fell from rocks on Valentia Island has been called off for the night. The search is due to resume at first light tomorrow. ...
(This post was edited by knitclimb on Jul 18, 2007, 12:13 PM)
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climbsomething
Jul 14, 2007, 2:49 AM
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Oh wow. Bump.
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Stone-over
Jul 14, 2007, 2:55 AM
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Keep us all updated.
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ja1484
Jul 14, 2007, 3:21 AM
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Holy schmoly. We'll see. Hope he's ok.
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cole22
Jul 14, 2007, 4:38 AM
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This is terrible news, I really hope Michael is ok. My thoughts and love go out to him and his family.
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curt
Jul 14, 2007, 4:53 AM
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Are we sure we're talking about the same Michael Reardon? I'm just curious because "our" Mike Reardon is certainly older than 32--and lives in California rather than Connecticut. Whoever it is, of course, I hope he is found to be OK. Curt
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cole22
Jul 14, 2007, 5:03 AM
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curt wrote: Are we sure we're talking about the same Michael Reardon? I'm just curious because "our" Mike Reardon is certainly older than 32--and lives in California rather than Connecticut. Whoever it is, of course, I hope he is found to be OK. Curt I thought this too, the only thing that worries me is that in his latest "Pro Blog" on climbing.com. He says he just landed in Ireland. Who knows exactly when he wrote this, doesn't say on the site, but it is his most recent post. Anyway, like you said whatever may have happened I hope the person is alright.
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yokese
Jul 14, 2007, 5:05 AM
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curt wrote: Are we sure we're talking about the same Michael Reardon? I'm just curious because "our" Mike Reardon is certainly older than 32--and lives in California rather than Connecticut. Whoever it is, of course, I hope he is found to be OK. Curt It seems very probable that it was him. He was climbing in Ireland, according to his web-site last entry. http://www.freesoloist.com/ Hoping for the best.
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crackrn
Jul 14, 2007, 5:18 AM
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Man, I hope this isn't true.
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coldclimb
Jul 14, 2007, 5:55 AM
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salamanizer
Jul 14, 2007, 6:24 AM
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Cross your fingers guys. It's dawn in irsland (I think). Hopefully he's bivyed on the beach somewhere with an incredably sore ass. This has been a terrable year for climbing. I'm bummed.... Still holding out hope though.
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brenwhelan
Jul 14, 2007, 7:56 AM
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Saturday July 14 2007 A MAJOR search and rescue operation was underway off the Co Kerry coast last night after a world-famous rock climber fell from a cliff and plunged into the sea. Michael Reardon, an American in his early 30s, is considered to be one of the leading free solo climbers in the world. Such extreme climbers shun equipment such as ropes and crampons and instead use only their hands and boots to scale rock faces hundreds of feet high. He arrived in the country around two weeks ago as part of a tourism promotion and is understood to have been helping promote adventure holidays in Ireland to American and European tourists. He had been staying in Killarney and was visiting Valentia Island with two friends when the accident occurred shortly after 5pm yesterday. Mr Reardon had been walking along the top of a cliff at Dohilla when he slipped on some heavy kelp and was unable to regain his footing. He plunged some 75ft into the sea below. The alarm was raised by his fellow climbers. A large air and sea search was quickly underway with three local fishing vessels assisting the Valentia lifeboat and Knightstown Coastguard. The Shannon-based Sea King Coastguard helicopter, which is equipped with infra-red cameras, was also scrambled to scan the coastline. On land, members of the Kerry Mountain Rescue and local hill-walking clubs scanned the shore assisted by around 20 local people. However, by late last night, there was still no sign of the talented climber. Rescuers said visibility was good and they were due to continue the search until the light faded late last night. The spot where Mr Reardon fell is located just underneath the Valentia Coastguard station and is popular with climbing enthusiasts. Just two months ago in the United States, Mr Reardon completed some of the most difficult climbs in The Rockies. He has also done some of the most challenging descents around the world. Fellow rock climbers said last night that "his whole life revolves around climbing". His face has featured on the front covers of more American and European climbing magazines than any other climber since Chris Bonnington, the English mountaineer and Everest climber. For Irish Weather forecast check - http://www.met.ie/forecasts/regional.asp?Prov=Munster
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toejam
Jul 14, 2007, 7:56 AM
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Damn. Hoping for the best.
In reply to: Mr Reardon had been walking along the top of a cliff at Dohilla when he slipped on some heavy kelp and was unable to regain his footing. He plunged some 75ft into the sea below. The alarm was raised by his fellow climbers. WTF is heavy kelp doing at the top of a 75ft cliff?
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brenwhelan
Jul 14, 2007, 8:02 AM
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The weather station just above the point where Michael fell is repotring fine weather. We've had pretty aweful weather over here of late, but this break in the bad weather might be helpful. The wind and sea state are favourable at present and there are plenty of local climbers living down in that area who will be out in force helping in the search. The local mountain rescue team - Kerry - are all good friends of Michael's and will be doing their very best to find him ASAP. Fingers crossed he's found quickly... Weather station: Valentia Southwest, 04 Knots, Fine, 13 Miles, 1007, Rising slowly
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thomasribiere
Jul 14, 2007, 8:17 AM
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You guys in Ireland are just starting your day. Please bring us back some good news.
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btreanor
Jul 14, 2007, 11:27 AM
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I'm in Chamonix and I just got the news. I hope that we hear something good soon. Praying and holding out hope for Michael, Marci and the family. Brian
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brenwhelan
Jul 14, 2007, 11:59 AM
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The search is still taking place at the moment with no news updates. The tide was going out at the time of the fall, with a strong sea...last time a spokesman was on air he said, Michael was strong and fit, but with the power of the turning tide...If I hear anymore I'll update you guys. Hope and pray Bren Whelan www.mountaintraining.ie
(This post was edited by brenwhelan on Jul 14, 2007, 12:03 PM)
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bent_gate
Jul 14, 2007, 11:59 AM
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I'm praying for his safety. This has to be horrible for his family. The details of the fall keep contradicting themselves, which I think we have come to expect from today's media. From slilppery kelp to rogue wave: http://news.sky.com/...0200-1275216,00.html
http://news.sky.com/skynews/article/0,,30200-1275216,00.html wrote: (snip) A fellow climber raised the alarm after seeing the American being swept from rocks north of Valentia Island, County Kerry. Valentia Island coastguard John Falvey told Sky News it appeared the man was hit by a wave at 5pm on Friday while climbing a cliff on the north of the island. "At this stage we are looking for a body," he said. The local lifeboat, Shannon search and rescue helicopter, coastguards, cliff rescue teams and local people searched unsuccessfully until nightfall and began again at first light http://www.iht.com/...-Ireland-Climber.php
http://www.iht.com/articles/ap/2007/07/14/europe/EU-GEN-Britain-Ireland-Climber.php wrote: (snip) [Con] Moriarty said Reardon had just finished a climb on Friday and was standing on a ledge when he was knocked into the sea by a "rogue wave" and was carried out beyond the surf line. "He vanished from a standing position as opposed to a climbing one," Moriarty said.
(This post was edited by bent_gate on Jul 14, 2007, 12:04 PM)
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brenwhelan
Jul 14, 2007, 1:18 PM
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A friend of the climber missing off Valentia Island has confirmed that the man is 36-year-old Michael Reardon, who was set to return to the United States today. Con Moriarty, whose house Mr Reardon was staying in, said the famous climber was just standing on a ledge, west of Valentia Coast Guard Station when he was hit by a wave and then slipped. He had completed a short climb just before he was struck by a wave. The alarm was raised shortly after 5pm yesterday. Mr Moriarty said he was unable to get himself out of the sea. Mr Reardon had spent the last month in Ireland with a photographer, who was taking pictures of Mr Reardon climbing for an US magazine. Mr Reardon's wife Marci and his 13-year-old daughter are on their way to Ireland and are set to arrive here tomorrow morning. He is understood to be one of the leading free solo climbers in the world. The term applies to climbers who do not use equipment to scale great heights.
(This post was edited by brenwhelan on Jul 14, 2007, 1:21 PM)
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dr_feelgood
Jul 14, 2007, 1:26 PM
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Oh NO! Sending my thoughts his way.
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crackrn
Jul 14, 2007, 4:20 PM
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Just sucks. If it was the wave thing...my dad died the same way, standing near the ocean, next thing he was in the water. I was 12. I'm so sad for his family. Even if he ends up being okay, they must be just devastated right now. So many prayers for them.
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thinksinpictures
Jul 14, 2007, 4:25 PM
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I met Mike and chatted with him for a bit at Boulderdash in Westlake Village, CA, where he was climbing with his daughter. He was nothing but nice and helpful, offering beta on some of the boulder problems he'd put up, in between belaying his daughter. My thoughts are with him and his family today.
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charlie_benton
Jul 14, 2007, 4:29 PM
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This is tough to hear, Michael is by far the coolest most enthusiastic climber I've ever met. I hope they find him soon.
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Beyondreach
Jul 14, 2007, 4:49 PM
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The man has to be one the mentally and physically toughest people out there in oreder to do some of the things he's done. If anyone can survive the that sort of situation.. I refuse to give up hope until proven otherwise.
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Irisheeye
Jul 14, 2007, 4:59 PM
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Sad news indeed. Latest news below at 16.30(Irish Time) copied from Irish national online paper. Naval divers to join Kerry search for missing climber Saturday July 14 2007 Naval divers are due to arrive at Valentia Island in County Kerry within the next hour to help search for a missing American rockclimber. Michael Reardon was standing at the bottom of a cliff when he was hit by a rogue wave, slipped and was swept out to sea. As friends join in the search for the well-known 'extreme rock climber', Mr Reardon's family are making their way to Ireland from the United States. Gerry O'Brien from Valentia Coastguard said that conditions yesterday would not have been suitable for a climb. He had roots in Ireland and was proud of them and i think this clip below captures the measure of the man and something of what he felt about the country of Ireland. Of how he embraced new challenges and gave credit and encouragment to others. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aa-WFmpTde8
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raymondjeffrey
Jul 14, 2007, 5:17 PM
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Aw man. Shit. Good dude, met him out at the Needles. Gave gambler and I some good beta on finding the base of the Becky route. Without it we would have been bushwackin around for way too long. Hope he's found alive...
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thedejongs
Jul 14, 2007, 5:20 PM
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Prayers going out for Michael and his family. Met them once last year in SLC. Fantastic people.
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overlord
Jul 14, 2007, 5:42 PM
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ouch. that sure is bad news. i really hope he is still alive. character like him are hard to find. ireland, give us some good news
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wzrdgandalf
Jul 14, 2007, 7:35 PM
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Any news from Ireland? I fear the worst, typically if someone isnt found within a few hours then the chances decrese dramatically. Hopefully he is hanging out somewhere on the coast at the base of some cliffs. I have been climbing for only three years but it sure does seem like this year has been one of the worst for the climbing community. My prayers are with the reardon family and friends.
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cole22
Jul 14, 2007, 8:31 PM
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Not the news I hoped for when I woke up this morning. This fills me with such sadness and pain. Michael was SOOOO nice to me and my friends when we first started climbing at stoney point. He even let me email him some climbing films I was working on and he gave me some notes. Whenever we saw him whether at J Tree or Mailibu or where ever, he always took the time to ask how were doing and to see if we wanted to go climbing with him. I'm so saddened by this news, although I haven't lost hope. Once again I'm sending my love out to him and his family during this tough time.
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brenwhelan
Jul 14, 2007, 9:02 PM
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The coastguard say that they are now looking for a body, so prepare yourselves for the worst. The weather has been good here all day, and tomorrow to begin, it will be okish, but becoming worse as the day develops. The search will continue tomorrow, Navy divers will be conducting an underwater search. There are a large number of ships taking part, helicopters as well as rescue team members are searching the shore-line. Hopefully it will all end quickly...
(This post was edited by brenwhelan on Jul 14, 2007, 9:08 PM)
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philbox
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Jul 14, 2007, 9:30 PM
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Awww man, that makes me really really sad and bummed. Not cool to hear of any death in the climbing community and one of those so well known to us here on rc.com. Oh I do hope that his family checks in here and sees that we are all very concerned.
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brenwhelan
Jul 14, 2007, 9:36 PM
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Here is a little insight into this area 'Wireless Point' from a UK climber who put up new routes there, he's called Bill Briggs: Sorry to hear this news, I am sure it will become clearer with time. About the wave, myself,Chris Jackson and John Fleming found this crag in the early 90s. We did about 30 new routes in the first 2 weeks, however we could not understand why there was no loose rock on the ledges. We asked the man at the wireless station if he had ever seen other climber, he said we were the first he had seen, however it all made sense when he told us that the winter waves broke right over the top of the crag. Sweeping it clean. This crag is similar to Pembroke in height. This is a very exposed coast line.
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wideguy
Jul 14, 2007, 9:48 PM
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Still hoping for the best. I don't know Mike personally but he seems like a real nice guy, and strong too.
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macherry
Jul 14, 2007, 10:16 PM
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sad news indeed. here's hoping for a miracle
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alpinismo_flujo
Jul 14, 2007, 10:48 PM
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^Indeed... Even though some people knock him - I think he IS a great climber.
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tallmark515
Jul 15, 2007, 1:38 AM
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Man, this is awful news. Hoping for the best for him and his family. I had the opportunity to meet him once while climbing White Lightning at Jtree, he was doing laps up and down the wall and stopped mid climb to chat and help my partner pull out a stuck cam.
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petsfed
Jul 15, 2007, 2:16 AM
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alpinismo_flujo wrote: ^Indeed... Even though some people knock him - I think he IS a great climber. I've been critical of some of his actions, but its undeniable that he's one of the better climbers of our era, and certainly one of the more energetic people on the rocks. I really hope he turns up alive and well, if only because he makes life on this planet a little less boring.
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raymondjeffrey
Jul 15, 2007, 3:10 AM
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regardless of his climbing prowess; a decent human may have been taken from his friends and family too soon. THAT is the only issue. It saddens me to think that his wife and daughter are experiencing such a heart-wrenching loss. The poor things must be inconsolable.
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blitzkrieg_climber13
Jul 15, 2007, 4:35 AM
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agreed with artm. i know michael well and still have this feeling that something is not quite right. i still have this small feeling he'll show up with a bottle of whiskey in his hand sopping wet and say, "boy do i have a story for you guys" never lose hope
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marquis_de_sade
Jul 15, 2007, 4:50 AM
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hope he swims as well as he climbs
(This post was edited by marquis_de_sade on Jul 15, 2007, 2:01 PM)
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jcpace
Jul 15, 2007, 10:03 AM
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my prayers for you and your family, my friend.
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notapplicable
Jul 15, 2007, 10:21 AM
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Well F*CK. I've been working 12's for the last several days and havent had time to do anything but eat and sleep so I'm just getting the news. Not only is this very sad for his friends and family but I'm afraid the 'dimmer switch' on our community may have just been turned down a notch.
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Irisheeye
Jul 15, 2007, 11:40 AM
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Just to keep you guys informed, heres a report on the story from last nights Irish national news station that plays in real player. http://www.rte.ie/news/2007/0714/6news_av.html?2269322,null,230
(This post was edited by Irisheeye on Jul 15, 2007, 11:42 AM)
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skram
Jul 15, 2007, 5:21 PM
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Hi. We have a first hand account from Photographer Damon Corso posted here: http://www.urbanclimbermag.com. Thoughts and prayers to all. Mark
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gargrantuan
Jul 15, 2007, 5:43 PM
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wow, how incredibly sad. my condolences to his friends and family.
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brenwhelan
Jul 15, 2007, 6:13 PM
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This update is via the main Irish Climbing site: www.climbing.ie In order to honour Michael and his great love of climbing here in Ireland, a memorial gathering of his family and friends will take place next Tuesday 17/07 at 4pm. This gathering will take place at the Fogher Cliffs, adjacent to the Coast Guard Station, where Michael was taken from us. All are welcome to attend. The site can be reached by taking the 'Ring of Valentia' road from Knightstown on Valentia Island and following the signs for 'The lighthouse Café' and 'Tetrapods'. We hope that some of you can attend and if so please respect the local community, who have self-lessly helped in the search, by driving and parking sensibly on the small roads of the island.
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curt
Jul 15, 2007, 6:18 PM
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fixed link. Curt
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thomasribiere
Jul 15, 2007, 7:23 PM
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curt wrote: fixed link. Curt The so calm sea in the TV report adds irony and tragedy to this missing.
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brenwhelan
Jul 15, 2007, 9:45 PM
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This might help anyone thinking of going on Tuesday: You'd need to get to Shannon airport, it's maybe 100miles away. http://www.shannonairport.com/flight-info/ You can drive from here to the location, maybe 2.5 to 3 hours drive, due to Irish roads being ropey. From Dublin airport you can fly to Kerry airport, check http://www.aerarann.com For roads and transport info use: http://www.aaireland.ie/
(This post was edited by brenwhelan on Jul 15, 2007, 9:48 PM)
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camhead
Jul 15, 2007, 10:29 PM
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this is tragic. Reardon has and will always represent the ultimate intersection of physical and mental fitness in climbing to me.
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crackrn
Jul 16, 2007, 5:17 AM
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So sad for his family.
(This post was edited by crackrn on Jul 16, 2007, 5:18 AM)
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epic_ed
Jul 16, 2007, 7:20 AM
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My thoughts and prayers go out to Mike's friends and family, and like many have expressed, I'm still hoping for a miracle. Mike and I had our differences in the online world but I know several people who were his close friends -- it's clear that he loved those around him as with as much passion as he devoted to his climbing and likely even more so. Mike was unapologetically himself and by all accounts lived a very empassioned and intense life. It's hard to believe that he may no longer be with us. I ran into Mike at JTree last Thanksgiving. He was having a usual Reardon day soloing around the routes at Indian Cove. We had met briefly a couple of times before but it was the first chance I'd had to speak with him about some nasty and personal conflicts we'd had online during the time he was running things here on RC.com. We spoke a few minutes about how unimportant the whole web bullshit really is and how silly those interactions are compared to the things that really matter in our lives -- family, friends, climbing...living. I'm glad I had the chance to bury the proverbial hatchet. Mike was wise to walk away from the cyber-strife. Life really is too short to get wrapped up in the conflict of personalities and issues we often help to perpetuate in these forums. Hats off to him for focusing his energy in more meaningful and positive directions. The void his passing will leave in the lives of those close to him must be tremendous and my heart goes out to those of you coping with his loss. Ed
(This post was edited by epic_ed on Jul 16, 2007, 7:21 AM)
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pylonhead
Jul 16, 2007, 7:41 AM
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Still hoping there could be some other possibility. I met him a few times at Malibu Creek. He was always friendly. The first time we ran into him, he set up a top-rope for us on one of the climbs we were working. Prayers for him and for his family.
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mattltambor
Jul 16, 2007, 10:26 AM
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Talk about a man who embodied the idea of living life to the fullest. Hearing this news makes me feel ill. I'm hoping against hope that he's just stranded on a beach somewhere, waiting to tell us everything's ok.
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climbinwv
Jul 16, 2007, 12:32 PM
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GATE GATE PARAGATE PARASAMGATE BODHI SVAHA...
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j_ung
Jul 16, 2007, 12:42 PM
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Oh no. I can't believe this
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kimmyt
Jul 16, 2007, 1:23 PM
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Oh man. Sad is not the word. Micheal was an amazing person. I just remember thinking as he spent a rainy day climbing in a GYM in Provo, UT with climbers there raising money for women's cancer, that THIS GUY was probably ready to poke his eyes out, the famous free soloist, stuck in a gym. But he was so wonderful, so happy to be there with other climbers, sharing his joy of climbing and helping to raise money for those in need, he told stories to our team of climbers, and coached one of them on leading a route that she was worried about trying. He was really an amazing guy. My thoughts are with his family, I'm sure they know how he was loved! K.
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j_ung
Jul 16, 2007, 1:28 PM
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I have been and still am proud to call Michael my friend. I shouldn't be stunned, considering the way Michael lived life, but I am none the less. I'll miss you Michael.
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baja_java
Jul 16, 2007, 4:14 PM
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thoughts are with Mike's family and friends always fun to run into Mike out at JTree. saw him couple months back out at Mel's Diner, not too long after an FA he did up at the Needles. i asked him about the gear beta for that route. just kidding around. he had a lot of fun with that one. good laughs. had run into Mike at Mel's about a year or so before, and he hadn't been back there in all that time either. just so happened we were there again that same day. "hey," he said as my partner and i headed back to the campground, "same place. same time. next year"
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freezorburn
Jul 16, 2007, 4:18 PM
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+++++++++++Vibes sent to the Family. Tragic, Sad and totally not fair, he wasn’t even climbing! It is completely ridicules,pointless and unbelivable to go out like that. Completely Tragic.
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zeke_sf
Jul 16, 2007, 4:29 PM
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j_ung wrote: I have been and still am proud to call Michael my friend. I shouldn't be stunned, considering the way Michael lived life, but I am none the less. I'll miss you Michael. I feel the same way that we shouldn't be surprised, yet some people have such an aura of invincibility that we are shocked when reality intervenes. I heard this news while out climbing and I was saddened more than I would expect for somebody I have never met. I feel for his loved ones, especially his daughter, but I know he lived life to the absolute fullest and hopefully the memory of his spirit will lead his family back to happiness. Although I don't care to even try emulating his exploits, he was a hero to myself and many others.
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SoloJoe
Jul 16, 2007, 4:45 PM
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Never met Michael Reardon, but I have read several articles about him and his solo ascents. He was very inspiring for those of us who envy such talent. Condolences go out to Michael's family, friends and all who knew him. Even those who he inspired through magazine articles. I will surely miss reading about one of the Greats of this climbing era!
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johnnym
Jul 16, 2007, 6:12 PM
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I also am proud to call Michael my friend, though I met him only once, it seems like we have been friends for ever. Let me quote from my first interview I did with Michael on Crimpermag.com: JM. To conclude, if the unthinkable ever happened, what would you most like to be remembered for? (This needn't be climbing related - I personally believe that the reason I was put on this planet is for my son Sam). MR. Don’t shed a tear, raise a pint and laugh because I’m living hard and loving harder than anyone has a right to. Besides, the devil won’t have me and we know the old man upstairs isn’t opening the gates so I’ll still be around and giggling right along with you until we meet again. See ya soon mate!
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jdouble
Jul 16, 2007, 6:29 PM
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The world will be a less colorful place without Reardon. Will miss you.
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fenix83
Moderator
Jul 16, 2007, 6:35 PM
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johnnym wrote: MR. Don’t shed a tear, raise a pint and laugh because I’m living hard and loving harder than anyone has a right to. Besides, the devil won’t have me and we know the old man upstairs isn’t opening the gates so I’ll still be around and giggling right along with you until we meet again. I had refused to post on this thread because I refused to believe it could be true... I'll still hold out for a miracle, but the quoted post, especially the portion in italics reminded me of this:
In reply to: And so he fell but didn't land 'Til he reached the dwelling of the damned. Then he upped and bid Old Nick farewell And started climbing out of Hell. It's now all uphill whiche'r route he take. And yet we hope for Henry's sake, That the grading of his route to Heaven Is somewhat less than five-eleven. We'll climb together, on this side or the other. -F
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reno
Jul 16, 2007, 6:43 PM
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Never met him. Wish I had. Michael was the catalyst for many good discussions about climbing, ethics, style, and risk. He raised awareness, even if he didn't intend to, and for that, I am indebted to him. His strength of character, his spirit, and his attitude towards life should be an inspiration for us all. I wish his family and friends the strength to get through this very tragic time.
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erisspirit
Jul 16, 2007, 6:55 PM
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This is really sad I met him at Malibu creek. He was really cool and showed us a traverse over part of the creak. We all fell in at the crux... including him . He pointed out a few other good climbs and we all chatted for awhile. As everyone said before he was really enthusiastic and personable. sad sad news
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moose_droppings
Jul 16, 2007, 7:04 PM
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Things do indeed look dark and dire. I do not want to give anyone false hope, but will reserve my condolences till we get the official word.
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curt
Jul 16, 2007, 11:49 PM
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I enjoyed the time I spent bouldering with Michael in Joshua Tree and the times we spent together at the Crossroads Cafe and/or around the campfire where talk of epics and spinning tall tales was the norm. When ever I would fall off some horrendously thin boulder problem and smack my knee or elbow, etc. on the rock, Michael would laugh his ass off. Naturally, when he would then also fall on the same problem, he would laugh his ass off just as hard. That's just the way he was. I'm convinced that if climbing with Michael didn't get you excited about climbing, you were probably already dead yourself. Michael always had about 50 things going at any one time (as far as I could tell) and I remember that he was quite happy that I could introduce him to John Gill when John and I were on a bouldering trip to the Sierra a few years ago. The interview that Michael did at our cabin appeared in his film about John Bachar and free soloing. You may have liked Michael or you might not have liked Michael, but he was an extremely colorful personality--and the world of climbing will be considerably more gray without him. Curt
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dingus
Jul 17, 2007, 12:01 AM
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You speak well of your friend, you do him proud. DMT
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reno
Jul 17, 2007, 2:11 AM
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Curt, you're a very eloquent man, and one should be honored to have such words spoke of him. Hoist a glasss/pint/mug to Michael. c[_]
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macherry
Jul 17, 2007, 2:58 AM
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reno wrote: Curt, you're a very eloquent man, and one should be honored to have such words spoke of him. Hoist a glasss/pint/mug to Michael. c[_] i'll second what reno said cheers a member of the tribe who will be missed
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dlintz
Jul 17, 2007, 3:09 AM
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Nicely said Curt. My thoughts and prayers to his family and friends. d.
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overlord
Jul 17, 2007, 9:40 AM
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curt wrote: You may have liked Michael or you might not have liked Michael, but he was an extremely colorful personality--and the world of climbing will be considerably more gray without him. ditto that. i couldnt have put it better myself. while i only knew him from this site, i always admired him. and the thing i remember most from our correspondence is when right after one of hes free solos (rainbow warrior??) a bunch of naysayers attacked him for supposedly faking the ascent, he sent me a really kind PM thanking me for the support (i sadly cant find the pm in my inbox). and, in the days of yore when rc.com still had the meber voting system, he gave me a 10. i dont know why, because i was still a really green noob at the time. i really hope he isnt dead because he is one of the persons i would love to meet in real life. characters like he do step on some ppls toes, but the world would be so boring without them. edited to add: if the owners are going to start the 'in memoriam' feature or its quvivalent, if michel reardon doesnt make it, it would be the right place to start. not only is he a great climber, he is also one of the early members (was he also an owner at a time?) that definitely left hes mark on the site.
(This post was edited by overlord on Jul 17, 2007, 11:37 AM)
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reno
Jul 17, 2007, 3:31 PM
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overlord wrote: edited to add: if the owners are going to start the 'in memoriam' feature or its quvivalent, if michel reardon doesnt make it, it would be the right place to start. The general consensus among the mods/staff is that we should wait for a final confirmation/official word before we start such a thread. There is a chance, slim though it may be, that Michael is found. He's a strong man, and stranger things have happened.
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climbinwv
Jul 17, 2007, 5:37 PM
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Here is a video from this winter of Michael climbing in Ireland and talking about how great it is there. i hope we can all remember his great spirit and passion for climbing. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Aa-WFmpTde8
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lewissimonj
Jul 17, 2007, 5:42 PM
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I know that a lot of us from the Los Angeles area and around the world have looked up to Mike in attitude and in ability. At some point, it would be good to gather at Stoney or Malibu Creek and pay our respects to a local legend.
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spetty
Jul 17, 2007, 7:51 PM
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I agree with you. I'm not a climber. That isn't how I got to know Michael. He and his family are my neighbors. I will remember him as the man who was a great dad. I saw him almost every morning walking the dog along side Nicki as he walk her to school. I'll remember him as wonderful neighbor and friend who I would see at the pool or our local coffee house. He always had a friendly smile and great conversation. He will diffently be missed around Oak Park, CA. There should be some kind of memorial here for him.
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socaldudefromquebec
Jul 17, 2007, 8:19 PM
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Michael has set some of the most fun/challenging/educational routes at the local indoor gym where he could be seen training between his trips when the weather/lighting did not allow outdoor climbing. Bourderdash will be holding a vigil for him tomorrow. See the attached for more info. I've exchanged a few friendly words with him over the months at the gym but I certainly did not know him very well. Although probably not realistic at this point, I still hold a glimmer of hope that he somehow made it. I sure hope we get some firm news one way or another soon. I can't imagine how his family is taking all this. He will be missed by the climbing community, that's sure, but not so much as by his wife and daughter.
(This post was edited by socaldudefromquebec on Jul 17, 2007, 8:21 PM)
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storm2
Jul 18, 2007, 12:33 AM
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My thoughts and prayers are with Michael and his family. I enjoyed climbing with Michael. It was nothing but a pleasure to know him. Myself and all my friends still hope for a safe recovery and if not we will all miss him. (What a guy!)
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dshoffman
Jul 18, 2007, 1:55 AM
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I'm sad...I feel so badly for his wife and daughter. I only had the pleasure of meeting him once, but for those who knew him well and describe him as "always with a smile" well, I can see that about him. It's terrible to think of his last moments. My thoughts and prayers go out to his soul and family.
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lite2
Jul 18, 2007, 4:41 AM
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Michael Reardon is that guy that every one wants to be around. He has a certain aura around him that just makes you want to smile. I will always be thank full for the hours of time he has spent helping me to become a better climber weather it was in J-Tree, Malibu Creek or the gym. My Prayers are with Marci, Nikki, The Outlaws, and to all the rest of you who have been affected the way i have by this tragedy. I will also pray for the day that Michael and i can sit and read these posts and discuss the crazy story that has been his trip to Ireland -SPIT-
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Alfonzo
Jul 18, 2007, 10:02 AM
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I was not going to post for I did not know Michael. But after reading all the posts here, I feel I should. We "spoke" via emails a few times. The first time I wrote to him I was compelled to, being of a kindred spirit but in no way at Michael's level. I thought...no way will he write back... he must get a million emails.... Not only did Michael write back, but the note I got was so humble, caring and personal I was blown away. Now after reading post by friends, neighbors and folks Michael has touched, I'm not surprised at the quality of people that were in his life. My thoughts go to his family and friends... Peace. Alan Cattabriga Concord NH.
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knitclimb
Jul 18, 2007, 12:55 PM
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For those of you in the Philadelphia area, we'll be toasting Michael with whiskey and beer tonight (7.18) at 8pm at the Standard Tap in Northern Liberties. See you there. - Jess
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brenwhelan
Jul 18, 2007, 3:13 PM
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Some Details form yesterday's ceremony in Ireland ROCK climber Michael Reardon pushed himself to the limit of his abilities, but ships were never meant to remain in harbours. Tribute was paid to the fearless way the solo climber lived his life, at a moving ceremony on the cliff-top overlooking his last dramatic climb on Valentia Island, Co Kerry yesterday. Up to 150 people gathered in sunshine to pay their respects to the 35-year-old American who was washed out to sea on Friday, after scaling the cliff-face twice. A hundred feet below, Navy and Garda sub-aqua teams scoured the sea-bed for any trace of the man renowned among climbers and mountaineers for his daring exploits without ropes or safety equipment. A traditional lament on harp and tin whistle opened the ceremony attended by the missing man's wife Marci, their 13-year-old daughter Nicki, close friends, members of the rescue services, the gardai, local people and well-known figures from the sporting and climbing worlds. These included the mountain-running champion John Lenihan and Kerry football great and island native Mick O'Connell. Father Kevin McNamara, a curate attached to Killarney parish, led the prayers. Michael Reardon "wouldn't hurt a rock by putting a claw into it", in order to preserve it for future generations, he said. He had left a mark that would never be forgotten. He had pushed things to the limit. A ship was safe when in harbour, but that was not what ships were for, the priest said. West Kerry GP and poet Micheal Fanning read two of his poems: 'I run with the winds and moods', which he dedicated to Mr Reardon's daughter, and 'Odysseus', a poem about daring people and those waiting for them, dedicated to Marci Reardon. Extraordinary Among many contributors, Mr Reardon's friend and mountaineer Con Moriarty, with whom he stayed while in Kerry, said people had gathered to honour "a beautiful man" and a "truly extraordinary" climber. "I saw him as an artist," he added. Towards the end of the ceremony, Nicki, tearful throughout the hour-long ceremony, spoke briefly of her father who was "louder" than most people and larger than life. Flowers were brought to the scene along with a plaque made of local Valentia slate. A haunting rendition on the bagpipes of the Blasket island elegy 'Port na bPucai', an air said to echo the journey of the departing soul, ended the ceremony. Those on the cliff waved to the divers on the boats below. Mr Moriarty asked for prayers that the ongoing search would bring closure for Mr Reardon's friends and family.
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macherry
Jul 18, 2007, 3:20 PM
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Thanks Bren
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overlord
Jul 18, 2007, 5:00 PM
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reno wrote: overlord wrote: edited to add: if the owners are going to start the 'in memoriam' feature or its quvivalent, if michel reardon doesnt make it, it would be the right place to start. The general consensus among the mods/staff is that we should wait for a final confirmation/official word before we start such a thread. There is a chance, slim though it may be, that Michael is found. He's a strong man, and stranger things have happened. ditto that, i wholeheartedly agree with you. that is why i wrote in the same post 'he is a great climber', 'he is one of the early members' etc i really do hope he makes it.
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johnnym
Jul 18, 2007, 8:11 PM
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Bren, Thanks for that account. I am genuinely sorry that I didn't manage to get there even though I tried. I asked Mark Niles to say a prayer for me and to have a pint and a wee one. I am really moved by your eloquence in telling us all about the gathering. I think that folks are probably only now getting the feel of how many lives Michael has touched in a humble and gentle manner, despite his "louder than most" exterior. A wonderful guy to have as a friend! John
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miker
Jul 18, 2007, 9:11 PM
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crap!! I only climbed with Mike once at a rc gathering at JT but the tears won't stop falling. He was a bright light that went out too early.
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socaldudefromquebec
Jul 18, 2007, 10:10 PM
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Not wanting to take anything from Bren... but let's give credit where credit is due... the text in Bren's post is actually a direct copy/paste job from the article listed at the top of the first post on this thread (edited by knitclimb on Jul 18, 2007, 5:13 AM). Here is the link again. http://www.independent.ie/...lifftop-1039283.html It is Anne Lucey's eloquence that moved us all.
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macherry
Jul 18, 2007, 10:38 PM
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socaldudefromquebec wrote: Not wanting to take anything from Bren... but let's give credit where credit is due... the text in Bren's post is actually a direct copy/paste job from the article listed at the top of the first post on this thread (edited by knitclimb on Jul 18, 2007, 5:13 AM). Here is the link again. http://www.independent.ie/...lifftop-1039283.html It is Anne Lucey's eloquence that moved us all. indeed, i was thanking Bren for posting it
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johnnym
Jul 19, 2007, 8:12 AM
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socaldudefromquebec wrote: Not wanting to take anything from Bren... but let's give credit where credit is due... the text in Bren's post is actually a direct copy/paste job from the article listed at the top of the first post on this thread (edited by knitclimb on Jul 18, 2007, 5:13 AM). Here is the link again. http://www.independent.ie/...lifftop-1039283.html It is Anne Lucey's eloquence that moved us all. OK my bad! My fault for not looking further than this thread, but eloquent anyway. Still wishing I had managed to get there! JM
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toohigh
Jul 19, 2007, 4:43 PM
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Dear Michael, Up up and away! thanks for making all of us believe! -john p.s. this just proves that ocean > rock
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brenwhelan
Jul 19, 2007, 5:19 PM
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Hum, I missed Ann's name from the bottom of the posting, sorry!
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crackrn
Jul 19, 2007, 5:41 PM
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I met Mike a couple times: once in the gym in San Diego and then again in Joshua Tree a couple months later. I was very new to climbing and didn't know who he was until reading about him in various mags. The thing that stands out is that no one was a stranger to him. He talked to everyone as if he'd known them for years; one of the friendliest, outgoing climbers I'd met. I know there's still hope but feel so sad for his family.
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sancho
Jul 19, 2007, 8:16 PM
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I met Michael only once, but I will never forget the encounter. I was climbing at Tahquitz with a friend, on a route that is honestly quite easy. Let's face it, I am a crappy climber. We were about half way up the route and were having a good time, especially since I hadn't lead trad in a while. All of a sudden, I saw a guy with a crazy bunch of blond hair who appeared to be coming down the route. He got a bit closer and yes, he was coming down the route, but even more surprising, his gear consisted of headphones and a chalk bag. Being sort of a competitive person, I immediately felt like a chump - someone was free-soloing down a route that I was leading up. I think Michael realized this, somehow, and we had a surprisingly long conversation there while hanging out on the side of a cliff. In that brief conversation, he turned out to be one of the most encouraging, supportive and genuine people I have ever met. By the time we parted, I felt really good about myself and what I was doing. Hell, I was doing and not sitting at home watching t.v. like the rest of America. Who cares what the rating on the climb was! Prior to the encounter, I had heard of Michael in the climbing magazines. I would say that I had some preconceived notions of him; what kind of nut job with a death wish free solos 5.12? He has a family? But in all honest, after meeting him just that one time, I was amazed by his energy, intensity and the extremely positive vibe that he gave off. Michael was alive and I could tell that he loved life. Maybe he was a bit crazy, but man, he was having fun and he was living. Rest in peace.
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i.karen
Jul 21, 2007, 3:39 AM
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I got the news this evening and my heart goes out to Marci and Niki. My husband and I have climbed with Mike many of times and I have always had so much respect for him. He is full of energy and always knows how to make me smile. Mike you have touched so many peoples lives and we are hoping for a miracle. We love you!! Karen, Adam and family
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rrrADAM
Jul 21, 2007, 7:13 PM
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Mike is/was a friend of mine, and I was aquainted with both his wife and his daughter... I remember bouldering with Mike and Nikki a few years ago at Stoney Point. We, my wife (post above) and I, have camped with them, and I have climbed with Mike often at J-Tree, Malibu, and Needles. He is/was an inspiration to me, and inspired me to climb harder, and for different reasons... But more importantly, he is/was a friend, and his form of banter and playfullness will be missed... I remember bouldering with him and friends in J-Tree, and was locked off on a thin crimper groping blindly for the sloper on the top of the problem with Mike on top trying to tell me where it was, but I was looking at the crimper... He kept telling me to look up, and when I finally did, I saw his bare ass just 6 inches from my face, which of course caused me to fall off in laughter, to which he said, "ha-ha, no onsight for you!". I love ya brutha.
(This post was edited by rrrADAM on Jul 21, 2007, 7:19 PM)
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overlord
Jul 22, 2007, 9:23 AM
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rrrADAM wrote: Mike is/was a friend of mine, and I was aquainted with both his wife and his daughter... I remember bouldering with Mike and Nikki a few years ago at Stoney Point. We, my wife (post above) and I, have camped with them, and I have climbed with Mike often at J-Tree, Malibu, and Needles. He is/was an inspiration to me, and inspired me to climb harder, and for different reasons... But more importantly, he is/was a friend, and his form of banter and playfullness will be missed... I remember bouldering with him and friends in J-Tree, and was locked off on a thin crimper groping blindly for the sloper on the top of the problem with Mike on top trying to tell me where it was, but I was looking at the crimper... He kept telling me to look up, and when I finally did, I saw his bare ass just 6 inches from my face, which of course caused me to fall off in laughter, to which he said, "ha-ha, no onsight for you!". I love ya brutha. LOL, great story.
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rrrADAM
Jul 24, 2007, 5:30 AM
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Thanx for the link Curt.
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notapplicable
Jul 24, 2007, 11:27 AM
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If I was a crying man, that might have done me in. A touching piece about a beautiful person.
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rx_7addict
Jul 25, 2007, 3:29 PM
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can someone tell me why this is stickied?
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i.karen
Jul 25, 2007, 3:45 PM
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Just wanted to post this if anyone was interested! If we lived a little closer we would defiently be there. If anyone hears of one in Southern California please post! Karen http://www.rockandice.com/inthemag.php?id=36&type=onlinenews
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ddt
Jul 25, 2007, 6:42 PM
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It's with a heavy heart that I move this to "In Memory Of". My sincerest condolences to all Mike's family and friends. What a huge loss to the climbing community. DDT
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ddt
Jul 25, 2007, 6:45 PM
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I'm adding a post from a second thread that was started in this forum:
ez wrote: We here in Boulder CO. are putting on a fund raiser for Mike's family: Thursday, July, 26 @ 8:00pm @ The Spot Bouldering Gym. There will be beer, food, a raffle and slide show. $10.00 for all the above. Michael Reardon 7/14/2007 As I sit here contemplating what to do next, I am staring at the Rockies with a massive storm pounding the mountain range with a purple furry of rain and lightning. I just hung up the phone with my good buddy Buck and he just informed me about a mutual friend not only to myself and Buck, but to the climbing community as a whole. I guess Michael Reardon has fallen into the ocean while checking out a climb on the coast of Ireland. A rogue wave washed Mike into the ocean and swept him out to sea. Another climber that was with Mike, called the Coast Guard and other authorities for help on Friday. They are still searching for him. There are articles on line for the full details. He was just in town not but a month ago and we drank beer laughing about stupid shit. Mike has made a name for himself with his amazing solos, but he will always be just Mike, the kind of guy who screams hello from across the bar and always shakes your hand with a huge smile on his face. Genuine is the one word that I would use to describe Mike. A lot of people talked a lot of shit about Mike’s accomplishments, but he did what he loved to do. I get pissed when people have to down talk anyone who does something big even if it is out of character. Mike was one of those people who liked everyone and never judged anyone who was maybe not as crazy as he was or didn’t climb as hard. In my eyes, Mike was just being Mike and living life as he knew how. He loved his family, his friends and his climbing. I am happy for Mike, because he did what he loved to do and proved everyone wrong. I bumped into Mike years ago in Bishop while he was working on “High Plains Drifter”. He was having a hell of a time. He tried and tried, but couldn’t send on that trip. I would bump into him at JTree after he just soloed some route and asked if I would go with. There was no way I was going to go soloing, and I thought to myself, you crazy bastard, you can solo this, but you can’t do “High Plains Drifter”. He eventually sent “High Plains Drifter”, but I would always trip how he could do such hard ass routes and not do “High Plains”. I have no idea what his motivation was or why he did what he did, but I do know, he did do what he did and he did it well. I don’t want to think that he is gone forever; I want to have hope that the Coast Guard will find him in some cave just kickin it, waiting for the seas to calm down. Mike, if you are out there, come home and make us all laugh again. Thank you for reading this and please pray for Mike and his family. Eric “EZ” Harrison I'm also deleting the other thread so we have this merged. DDT
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petsfed
Jul 25, 2007, 7:25 PM
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I think I speak for a lot of people who, having never even met the man, refuse to admit in any way that Mike could be gone. Like I said, Mike has done some things that I don't really approve of. But everything I've heard about him, every first hand account has led me to believe that he didn't expect approval, that what other people thought really didn't matter to him. I think its a lie to say that he was the very best of us, but he led a life that we all wished, in some way, that we could have. Life in every breath. I'm not a sentimental guy, but this one gets to me, still. I think the best memorial we could ever offer to Michael Reardon is not any sort of physical artifact, but to live our lives in such a way that every day could be our last. I always thought that Dylan Thomas' Do Not Go Gentle Into That Good Night was a terrible eulogy as it urged the dieing to fight to the very last breath, not the living to accept the passing of one held dear. So I think instead it fits as an admonition to all of us, those who knew him, those who didn't, to live life exactly as Michael did. Life is too short to put off until tomorrow what you can surely do today. Do not go gentle into that good night, Old age should burn and rave at close of day; Rage, rage against the dying of the light. Though wise men at their end know dark is right, Because their words had forked no lightning they Do not go gentle into that good night. Good men, the last wave by, crying how bright Their frail deeds might have danced in a green bay, Rage, rage against the dying of the light. Wild men who caught and sang the sun in flight, And learn, too late, they grieved it on its way, Do not go gentle into that good night. Grave men, near death, who see with blinding sight Blind eyes could blaze like meteors and be gay, Rage, rage against the dying of the light. And you, my father, there on the sad height, Curse, bless me now with your fierce tears, I pray. Do not go gentle into that good night. Rage, rage against the dying of the light.
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reno
Jul 25, 2007, 8:18 PM
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"If the dead can come back to this earth and flit unseen around those they loved, I shall always be near you; in the garish day and in the darkest night -- amidst your happiest scenes and gloomiest hours -- always, always; and if there be a soft breeze upon your cheek, it shall be my breath; or the cool air fans your throbbing temple, it shall be my spirit passing by." -- Major Sullivan Ballou, Union Army, 1861.
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fenix83
Moderator
Jul 27, 2007, 5:58 PM
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In reply to: What we have done for ourselves alone dies with us; what we have done for others and the world remains and is immortal. -Albert Pike Rest well knowing that you will live forever in the hearts of all you knew and of many you did not. -F
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knitclimb
Jul 30, 2007, 2:56 AM
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Official Michael Reardon Memorial Set For August 18, 2007 http://thehendricksreport.wordpress.com/...-for-august-18-2007/
In reply to: A special service to celebrate the life of Michael Reardon, who tragically disappeared off the coast of Ireland two weeks ago, will be held on August 18, 2007. This special service will be taking place at Malibu Creek State Park located 4 miles south of highway 101 on Las Virgenes/Malibu Canyon Road, 25 miles from downtown Los Angeles, California. This will be the "Official&" Memorial and Service for Michael Reardon. Everyone is invited, but guests are being asked by the family to dress very casually in jeans or shorts and sneakers or flip-flops, Michael's preferred style of dress. Marci and Nicki, Michael's wife and daughter, will be attending this special ceremony, as will many family members and friends. If you can attend to show your support for this great family in these trying times, please make plans for August 18. As far as I know, this is the first report of this Memorial Service anywhere else in the world, and as such, it is requested that you pass this information along as far and wide as you possibly can. This family deserves this special time and the more people involved, the better. Michael touched alot of lives through his own. His number 1 love in life was not climbing, but his family. It is time to show them all the appreciation.
(This post was edited by knitclimb on Jul 30, 2007, 12:21 PM)
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climbs4fun
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Jul 30, 2007, 6:41 AM
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Does anybody know what time this service will take place?
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heximp
Jul 31, 2007, 4:22 PM
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Marci is planning another memorial service later in August. I will post up when I have detailed information. As for Michael, no one will ever replace him and neither would I want a replacement. He was so special that words can never captivate him. He was a true friend, a great husband, fantastic father and a solid climber. Sincerely, Anastasia Frangos [
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knitclimb
Aug 1, 2007, 1:51 AM
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Official Michael Reardon Celebration http://thehendricksreport.wordpress.com/...07-more-info-update/
In reply to: Celebrate Michael Reardon April 18, 2007 - 9 am Malibu Creek State Park, 1925 Las Virgenes Rd., Calabasas, CA 91302 (818)880-0367 for more info. Dress: Climbing Casual. Come ready to listen as Michael's friends and family celebrate his life, his accomplishments, and finally get a word in edgewise without his blessed interuptions. Bring your gear and climb with us when your done. FREE PARK ENTRY & PARKING
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needlzdos
Aug 1, 2007, 2:24 AM
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knitclimb wrote: Official Michael Reardon Celebration http://thehendricksreport.wordpress.com/...07-more-info-update/ In reply to: Celebrate Michael Reardon April 18, 2007 - 9 am Malibu Creek State Park, 1925 Las Virgenes Rd., Calabasas, CA 91302 (818)880-0367 for more info. Dress: Climbing Casual. Come ready to listen as Michael's friends and family celebrate his life, his accomplishments, and finally get a word in edgewise without his blessed interuptions. Bring your gear and climb with us when your done. FREE PARK ENTRY & PARKING You mean August, not april.
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rome2282
Aug 2, 2007, 6:52 PM
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I've been laid up from surgery for awhile now. I can honestly say I'm stunned. Even in a such a dangerous sport, this still shocks me. I could honestly say he was one of the people I looked up to the most. It takes a lot to be held up so high by so many people who never even met you. His mixture of fearlessness and caution is something that i've tried to apply to many things outside of climbing. I'm still stunned.....
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charlie_benton
Aug 4, 2007, 8:13 PM
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Is anyone going up to mikes celebration from San Diego. If so, I need to pay my respect and would greatly appreciate a ride. thanks~CB
(This post was edited by charlie_benton on Aug 5, 2007, 8:32 AM)
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mountainchick82
Aug 8, 2007, 12:12 AM
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I met Mike at Stoney, and I didn't know it was him at the time. He showed me a bouldering problem and I sat and watched him for awhile, just amazing. My thoughts go out to his family and friends, he will be missed.
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philbox
Moderator
Aug 8, 2007, 4:49 AM
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See ya Mike. I wish we could have gotten together like we talked about and did some scary stuff in Oz. You will be missed mate. I enjoyed those phone calls, wish the talks could have been in person.
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brent_e
Aug 10, 2007, 3:36 AM
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I never met Michael. I'm very sorry for the family and friends that he leaves behind and wish them the best and to be strong in this hard time.
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rockies
Aug 10, 2007, 8:20 AM
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I didn't know him personally, yet I am moved by all that has happened to such a great person. Like him I make people laugh around me, interact with people who I only just met, yet people would think we knew each other months/years. And I was made aware that that is a 'quality" not everyone posesses. Like me though, he would have got alot out of making others happy/ laugh/ or smile. These things are always sad, especially when they leave behind a family, wife, and child. He has gone to the top again, this time he won't be coming back down. From a song, and when you think about it, the words are very true: "Only the good die young"
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rockies
Aug 10, 2007, 8:56 AM
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In addition to the above; have you ever had any real experiences in your life where you felt that could not have just happened? Seriously. And on thinking hard about it, felt it can only be down to someone above, once close to you, looking after you? e.g. when everything has gone too well, too much good luck on an ongoing basis, and I for one; disbelieve anyone has that much luck; or when you felt you would have had a serious accident, but never did, be it mountain biking or whatever. Because I have. Well think of it like this, for those that knew him, and were very close to him, he will no doubt still be with you, spiritually, but protecting you... Perhaps someone else up above missed him too; so he was taken (in a wave). It was his time. It was meant to be.. I had a very close friend I knew from a young age, who was so close he was like a brother to me and I regarded him as such, as it was he I would always turn to whenever I was down, he had a knack of cheering me up in a split second. Our families were tremendously close. He was taken away due to cancer, he never told anyone except his wife until 2 days before he died, he had kept it all to himself. Not even his best friend or sister knew, because he was not selfish. He was a very strong, selfless person. He had a 6 month old son, and a wife of 2 yrs; his Dad had died not long before from a heart attack. I cried uncontrollably for the duration of his funeral. Later on; without sounding cold I was relieved in the end that it was that way round, his Dad then him, because if he had died before his Dad had; that would have killed his Dad (they were hugely close). And just maybe his Dad wanted and needed him still.. Those are thoughts I had. I still miss him hugely. So like so many young/ famous people/ famous climbers/ and genuinely good people who leave us at a young age, and who are always well remembered by many; Michael Reardon was also taken at a young age, and now he too will never be forgotten, but he will still be here (in spirit). For those that think he will come back in person, you have to accept, and let go; until you meet again (the next time).
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addiroids
Mar 13, 2009, 5:48 AM
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Haven't posted on here in a while, but just came across this again and it reminded me of what a fun positive guy Mike was. I still think about my dirtbag years in Joshua Tree from 2001-2004 where he would make my friend Stephanie and I laugh all evening long with his stories! Condolences again to his wife and daughter. Paul
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rrrADAM
Oct 2, 2009, 5:48 PM
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Apparently, this pic was taken just minutes before he was taken... RIP Bro... I looked up to you as a friend, mentor, and much more.
(This post was edited by rrrADAM on Oct 2, 2009, 6:32 PM)
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dreday3000
Oct 2, 2009, 5:59 PM
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Pretty amazing last pick. That guy certainly got his moneys worth.
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notapplicable
Oct 3, 2009, 6:50 PM
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rrrADAM wrote: Apparently, this pic was taken just minutes before he was taken... RIP Bro... I looked up to you as a friend, mentor, and much more. Thats a great pic and a timely bump Adam. I was at the local crag yesterday; I had the earphones in and was just zoning out and running laps and as my mind wandered it found it's way to both Reardon and Bachar. Two of the most talented and dedicated soloist this sport has ever seen, both lost within two years of one another. Thats HUGE! The number of people who have chosen to make unroped climbing their craft and who practice it at a high level for an extended period of time is very small and that already small circle has recently gotten, in a sense, unimaginably more so. Yes there are practitioners, many of which don't share their accomplishments but we have very few dedicated and passionate soloists. Even someone like Honnold who is doing amazing things without a rope isn't a soloist in the same sense that Woods is a boulderer or sharma is a sport climber. Not that I think anyone needs to, or should specialize. I have a lot of respect for the "all arounders" who have equal passion for multiple disciplines, I just see soloists as an endangered species of sorts. Losing two masters of this particular discipline creates a large deficit in their numbers and may further obscure how much something as simple as soloing can embody so much of the spirit and heart of this sport. All of which is just a long winded way of saying that your right, Reardon is missed and rightly so. Even by people like myself who would likely have never met him had he live to be 100. He was important to this sport in life and continues to be so in memory. In more ways than I'm really capable of putting a finger on, let alone articulating. RIP indeed.
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i_h8_choss
Nov 14, 2009, 1:05 PM
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notapplicable wrote: rrrADAM wrote: Apparently, this pic was taken just minutes before he was taken... RIP Bro... I looked up to you as a friend, mentor, and much more. Thats a great pic and a timely bump Adam. I was at the local crag yesterday; I had the earphones in and was just zoning out and running laps and as my mind wandered it found it's way to both Reardon and Bachar. Two of the most talented and dedicated soloist this sport has ever seen, both lost within two years of one another. Thats HUGE! The number of people who have chosen to make unroped climbing their craft and who practice it at a high level for an extended period of time is very small and that already small circle has recently gotten, in a sense, unimaginably more so. Yes there are practitioners, many of which don't share their accomplishments but we have very few dedicated and passionate soloists. Even someone like Honnold who is doing amazing things without a rope isn't a soloist in the same sense that Woods is a boulderer or sharma is a sport climber. Not that I think anyone needs to, or should specialize. I have a lot of respect for the "all arounders" who have equal passion for multiple disciplines, I just see soloists as an endangered species of sorts. Losing two masters of this particular discipline creates a large deficit in their numbers and may further obscure how much something as simple as soloing can embody so much of the spirit and heart of this sport. All of which is just a long winded way of saying that your right, Reardon is missed and rightly so. Even by people like myself who would likely have never met him had he live to be 100. He was important to this sport in life and continues to be so in memory. In more ways than I'm really capable of putting a finger on, let alone articulating. RIP indeed. Very kind words. When I was living in Jtree a few years ago I always would see Michael soloing something, or see him driving around the park, run into him at HVCG, exchange some small talk. He was a pretty intense guy, and I always thought he had this bad-ass ego attached to him. Then I started soloing some easy routes and I figured out that he is what he is because he is. That's his wonderful character, this intensity. I immediately had a ton of respect for this guy. I looked up to him. Amazingly talented, even outside of rock climbing. It's been a horrible year for accidents in climbing and mountaineering. We as climbers need to do the best that we can out there in the following year, and keep our family and friends content with what we do. We do what we do cause we love it. R.I.P. to all those who have passed on in this last year.
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