Lukas had no problems on-sighting the climb.
We then made our way further along the wall to climb 'TOS' (18). I had climbed this route before, but this time I continued past the anchors to the 'TOS Extention' (21). This was a lot harder than I expected, I took a lot of rests and falls trying to figure out the steep, pumpy, crimpy crux. Against better judgement I persisted and finally managed to finish the route, forearms and fingers devastated from the abuse. At least I got some practice in taking falls, but my stamina was severely depleted.
After Lukas climbed 'TOS' we took a short break while the sun was overhead, then attempted the slabby 'Striptease' (20). A different style of climbing, I enjoyed sending the route but couldn't finish it clean, having to rest on the bolts near the end of the climb before my hands gave out.
We then climbed 'Are We Dancer' (19) and 'Rock n Surf' (17) as a warm down for the day. Short, committing climbing with big holds right where you need them, it was a great way to finish the day.
We hiked back to the car, drove back along the road that skirted the Hinze Dam and tried to procure a coffee for the drive home. Finding the nearby cafes closed, we asked the proprietor of a small pizza shop if he sold coffee. "No I don't, but because it's not busy I can make one from my personal espresso machine". The Argentinian owner (given away by the prominent Lionel Messi posters on the wall) disappeared behind the counter and a few moments later appeared with some piping hot cappuccinos. We delayed our plans and stayed for a delicious pizza, thick with cheese and toppings. What a great guy! I'll definitely stop by next time I'm in the area.
More photos here
