Rick Piggot on a lead attempt of Phd, 5.12a (1988-89)

Most popularly top roped, a lead was attempted on this impressive flake/face in 1988/89. With L.Pankiher (aka "the pocket Russian") belaying below, R. Piggot blew off the crux high up on the route, ripping out his gear and grounding, nearly taking out his belayer! Rick miraculouly walked away from this fall and was soon back up on the route hanging off hooks to drill two bolts for the upper section. Story and Photo: BVB collection / L.Pankiher