Jason Kehl
Jason Kehl has been climbing for over 13 years and an artist for just as long. Climbing has always been a good creative outlet and his vagabond lifestyle and penchant for danger have fueled his adventures over the years. Jason's evolvement in the climbing world reflects theses ideas and he is willing to share them with whoever is willing to listen.
A pro climber that has been living on the road for the past 10 years, Jason always seems to find adventure. His highballing escapades have been well documented, including some amazing first ascents like- Evilution in Bishop, Ca and becoming the first person to solo 5.14d with his boulder ascent of The Fly in Rumney New Hampshire. You can also see what he is up to via his website www.cryptochild.com.
Jason Kehl Blog: Earth Treks Rock Comp
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I spent the end of last month in Maryland, the place where I grew up. It was nice to get back and visit old friends and family, but my main objective of the trip was route setting for the UBC Earth Treks Roc Comp. When I arrived the first thing I noticed was the Earth Treks Gym had a face lift. A fresh paint job and some really cool new features! The man standing in front of the wall is Jordi Salas aka“The Spanish Stallion” and my original climbing mentor who came all the way from Spain to help set the comp.
We also ganged up with one of my all time favorite setters Scott Mechler. With little help from Jason Danforth, Ryan Banister, Abbey Smith and Obe Carrion this comp was really shaping up to be a good time. It was nice to be back working with old friends, and since I just finished setting for the Tahoe Triple Crown I felt confidant in my skills and quick decision making tactics; 10 seconds, Lets go…
Kasia Pietras sticking the first move on my qualifier #4.
Thanks to the guys at NE2C the comp was a great show with crazy lights, music and smooth running format. Our job the week prior was the fun but exhausting part, making sure all of the problems were good to go. My women’s qualifier #4 was one of the funniest comp problems I have set. With a double dyno right off the start that made for some great sports action! The other problem I was responsible for was men’s final #3, which is a huge responsibility considering it’s the last problem in the comp and can’t be to hard or too easy. The fact that it was a CryptoChild/SoiLL sponsored route helped ease some of that tension. I was able to set with two of my newest hold the enormous Growth and the baby doll heads!
Magnus Midtbo sticking The Growth on the first move on my final #3.
In the end it all worked out, Chris Sharma was to only one to do the final problem, although Daniel Woods was agonizingly close. Which made for an exciting finish to a successful comp. Everyone involved did a great job in pulling it off and I was glad to be apart of it. Even though I prefer to climb outside whenever I can, it was nice to spend a little time indoors and remind my self I’m still a huge fan!
Jonathan Horst cranking on the baby heads after the comp.
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