Chris Duca on the juggy and fun opening moves of M...
Description
Masterpiece is an all-inclusive epitome of Bonsai, as it has steep, juggy, and memorable moves that are not too far over the head of the average climber.
If you have one, clip the first bolt with a long draw (it's easy to back clip here, watch out.) After hauling rails and jugs, climber can be stymied by dead ending sucker holds and an inobvious crux about half way up the climb. If you are scared by the run out directly below the chains you are probably forgetting to stem or jam.
Location
This route is in the thick of the steepest section at Bonsai. The start is distinguished by a smooth and slopey ledge with lots of chalk on it. The first bolt is hidden in a small but obvious left facing alcove. The opening moves traverse out right around the alcove.
Protection
Protected by bolts and glue-in eyebolts. Two bolts with Quick Clips for an anchors. (As always, help preserve the Quick Clips by lowering/TRing on your draws when ever possible).
It might be worthwhile to note that the first bolt was added a few years ago. Before that, you had to climb up quite a ways to clip the first bolt. This bold start always felt very un-Rumney-like.
This is a GREAT climb. I, for one, wish the bolt had never been added to the start. Was a proud way to get aquainted with 5.10 back in the day. Had to climb up for a ways before the first bolt, indeed (seemed way runout!) but it was all on easy ground. Enormous jugs for every handhold. I am saddened by the seemingly pervading notion that all Rumney routes must be "cookie cutter" sport routes with no variance as to the commitment level. As I said, it used to be a prouder tick. Too bad. Nowadays, it's at least average for Rumney!
I don't really get the added first bolt either. It doesn't really protect much anyway particularly with a sling on it to avoid rope drag, protected great with gear if you chose and was fine as a stick clip if nervous. It would have made more sense to replace the rusty original first bolt. It is a nice route though.
Bonsai
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