This excellent problem is one of the best problems at Old Baldy. Start matched on the hold in the middle of the face. Put your foot on the very small foot hold and reach up to the small edge. Now, do one of two things. Either jump for the slopy hold (looks like a jug but is far from it) or heel hook the start hold. 5.6 to the top. Has been called both V8 and V9.
Hey Josh. I did manage the FA of this problem. I'm glad you like it as much as I do. I guess I called it Brilliant for a reason.... I did this problem for the first time on one of my solo adventures out to Baldy. Like you said, the top is easy, but it was a more than a little scary topping out for the first time with no spotters! After the ascent, I sat on the rock in front of Brilliant and ate some tuna on crackers, and I swear I heard growling coming from the cave underneath this problem. I quickly decided my day was done.
Greg- I kind of understand your story. When I first did this problem, I was alone as well. The main problem was that the top ledge you descend off of was covered in ice and snow, so I opted (once I put my hand on the icy ledge) to down-climb. I came back when it wasn't so cold and did it again even though it was raining. My friend and I used crash pads to cover the bottom holds and, since I had a friend to call 911, descended the wet ledge. Scary!!!
Brilliant Boulder
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