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WBraun
climber
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Jul 13, 2007 - 11:13pm PT
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Oh oh
Looks legit. Not good. I too hope it's not true.
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Jaybro
Social climber
The West
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Jul 13, 2007 - 11:16pm PT
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Drag ....!
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Fluoride
Trad climber
Hollywood, CA
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Jul 13, 2007 - 11:25pm PT
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Whoa. I really hope it's not true.
I can't fathom Michael's demise coming at a drowning in an ocean. Even if the fall was survivable, that water must be pretty damn cold. Hope he swam to safety and is just waiting a rescue.
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bob d'antonio
Trad climber
Taos, NM
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Jul 13, 2007 - 11:30pm PT
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I hope it's not true...Michael is older and not from CT...but from CA.
Pulling for you Michael!
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Fluoride
Trad climber
Hollywood, CA
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Jul 13, 2007 - 11:31pm PT
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Well, it IS legit that the accident occured. I just hope it's not Michael:
Island search for missing US tourist
A search-and-rescue operation was under way off Valentia island in Co Kerry last night after an American tourist fell from a cliff while rock-climbing.
The accident occurred at about 5.15pm when the man, believed to be in his 30s and an experienced rock-climber, fell more than 30 feet into the sea at Dohilla, off the north side of the island.
The location is just underneath Valentia Coast Guard station and is a popular climbing area for enthusiasts.
The man, who has been staying in Killarney and was visiting Valentia for the day, was with two other climbers, who raised the alarm.
The Valentia lifeboat, a Shannon-based search-and- rescue helicopter, Coast Guard and cliff-rescue units, and a large number of locals were involved in the search which was expected to continue until light faded.
http://www.ireland.com/newspaper/breaking/2007/0714/breaking3.htm
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WBraun
climber
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Jul 13, 2007 - 11:33pm PT
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They said he fell 70 feet into the water. That can knock the sh'it out of you. This is terrible.
"A major search operation for an American man who fell 70 feet into the sea off the Kerry coast is winding down for the night and due to resume at first light The missing man is 32 year old Michael Reardon, from Connecticut... one of the world's leading Free Soloists...that is... rock climbers who climb without the aid of any safety equpment. He and a friend had just climbed the scenic spot Wireless Point, on the north side of Valentia Island, when Mr Reardon slipped into the water... aplunge of 70 feet. Mr Reardon is also a well known filmmaker and writer in the US."
From the news source "newstalk"
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Crag Q
Trad climber
Louisville, Colorado
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Jul 13, 2007 - 11:37pm PT
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Very sad to see that news. Keeping fingers crossed.
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maldaly
Trad climber
Boulder, CO
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Jul 13, 2007 - 11:43pm PT
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My thoughts are with you Michael...
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Toker Villain
Big Wall climber
Toquerville, Utah
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Jul 13, 2007 - 11:49pm PT
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This sucks.
When will this string end?
Just met Michael two months ago and the person belied the rumors (naturally!). He was a hell of a nice guy to share the ranch house with at Climbfest.
Hope he's just had a cold wet bivy.
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John Mac
Trad climber
Littleton, CO
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Jul 13, 2007 - 11:50pm PT
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Michael has been blogging recently on climbing mag and his last post was about a week ago after he had just arrived in Ireland.
Here's hoping for good news in the morning.
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Fluoride
Trad climber
Hollywood, CA
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Jul 13, 2007 - 11:59pm PT
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Michael's blog. Sounds like he was loving life over there.
http://www.climbing.com/exclusive/problog/michaelreardon/
I really hope like Ron said that he's just having a cold, wet bivy.
He's a great spirit, so much fun to be around. So full of life and energy, more energy than anyone I've ever known. If the worst happens, he will really be missed. He's truly one of a kind.
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pc
climber
East of Seattle
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Jul 14, 2007 - 12:07am PT
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Yep. Swim man, swim! Then give us the TR.
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Ed Hartouni
Trad climber
Livermore, CA
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Jul 14, 2007 - 12:24am PT
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terrible news, best wishes to his family and friends...
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John Moosie
climber
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Jul 14, 2007 - 01:02am PT
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Locker. Its 8 hours time difference in Ireland. So its 6:00 AM. Sunrise was at 5:00 AM. Hopefully the searchers are out now.
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Dragon with Matches
climber
Bamboo Grove
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Jul 14, 2007 - 01:17am PT
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I hope he's swimming and comes back laughing, to continue getting it done in his own very-full-on way.
There's so much waiting for him to do in the Valley.
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Curt
Boulder climber
Gilbert, AZ
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Jul 14, 2007 - 01:23am PT
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"...A search has been launched for an American tourist who fell into the sea in Co Kerry. The man was walking along the north side of Valentia Island when he slipped on rocks and fell into water around teatime..."
How ironic would that be--after all the death defying stuff Mike has done? Still, I hope it somehow turns out that Mike is OK.
Curt
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crusher
climber
Santa Monica, CA
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Jul 14, 2007 - 01:29am PT
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I sent Patrick an e mail with a link to the thread...maybe since he's in Ireland he can find out something more. Yeah he's up in Dublin but you never know.
Sure hope Mike's ok.
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Todd Gordon
Trad climber
Joshua Tree, Cal
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Jul 14, 2007 - 01:44am PT
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Sad news......I'm very sorry to hear this....
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healyje
Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
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Jul 14, 2007 - 01:54am PT
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Bummer all the way around...
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Nefarius
Big Wall climber
Fresno, CA
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Jul 14, 2007 - 03:23am PT
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The search has resumed....
http://www.rte.ie/news/2007/0714/kerry.html
I'm with Ron. When is this sh#t gonna end?!?! Hopefully Mike swam to the closest sunny island and is sipping margaritas and mai tais as we speak. Surely he can free solo the sea, as well...
I'm not sure about anyone else, or even why, but when this crap happens it effects me. I've known a number of the people who have died in the last year, some of them fairly well, and it's for obvious reasons that I feel the effects of those passings... Yet, even when it's a climber such as Michael, whom I've never met, I still feel the effects and great sadness and emptiness. It's more than the sobering that comes with the reality of what we do. It's almost as if I know them as well as my passed friends and my heart hearts for the loss and their loved ones. Others must feel this way, or maybe I'm just some weird, sentimental person. It's an amazing bond we all share in this crazy sport.
I'm heading out at 7:00 am tomorrow morning for some time on the rock. Everyone be safe tomorrow.
Cheers!
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Jaybro
Social climber
The West
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Jul 14, 2007 - 03:56am PT
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Well put, nef, I never met MR and only vaguely followed the controverses, but I was really bummed to read this about his vanishing. Charlie and Todd I knew fairly well, so of course their exits hurt, but it moves me when things look bad for anyone I've heard even the littlest, about.
I'll be working on climbing safely tomorrow as well, if I get some sleep, first, anyway.
be careful out there, everybody!
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Brian
climber
Cali
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Jul 14, 2007 - 08:41am PT
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I'm in Chamonix and the news just got to me. Hoping for a good outcome. My thoughts and prayers are with Marci and the family.
Brian
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Patrick Sawyer
climber
Originally California now Ireland
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Jul 14, 2007 - 08:52am PT
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It was Reardon and the search is continuing this morning. Details are sketchy though, but it does not look good at all.
The water off the coast is cold but not as cold as the Irish Sea for example, as the Gulf Current keeps the waters off southwestern Ireland fairly warm (by some standards). Still, even if he was conscious in the water, he wouldn't probably last any longer than three hours.
It does not look good at all.
EDIT
http://www.rte.ie/news/2007/0714/kerry.html
This news item was about ten minutes ago.
Apparently he didn't fall while climbing but was struck by a wave or slipped on some seaweed, according to various reports.
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Richard
climber
Bend, OR.
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Jul 14, 2007 - 09:04am PT
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Hey Mike
I hope you get to read this! Now get your ass up here and lets drink that bottle of wine we've talked about.
Good thoughts going your way!
Richard
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justthemaid
climber
Los Angeles
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Jul 14, 2007 - 09:51am PT
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I'm totally shocked as well. Michael is a local here and a really nice guy.
I really hope this is some terrible mistake.
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Toker Villain
Big Wall climber
Toquerville, Utah
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Jul 14, 2007 - 10:29am PT
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You kick yourself when in retrospect a lost opportunity is apparent.
On the sunday morning after Climbfest I passed up an invite from Mike Anderson, Pete Takeda, and Michael to go work on some virgin rock and instead hung with Jeff and Greg.
Although seeing Greg again after 16 years was great and our conversation was very inspiring, when the others came back it came to light we could have pulled off the "instant route evolution".
How classic would it have been if I had soloed a new route on aid, then belayed by Pete Mike A had freed it, and then Michael had third classed it?
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Wheatus
Social climber
CA
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Jul 14, 2007 - 11:01am PT
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The authorities are still looking for him. It does not look good.
A witness said, "he was standing on a ledge after completing a short climb when he was struck by a wave and slipped."
http://www.rte.ie/news/2007/0714/kerry.html
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Brock
Trad climber
RENO, NV
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Jul 14, 2007 - 11:13am PT
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Mike! Hope you are okay.
Many a time climbing next to you in Malibu!
God Bless!
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Patrick Sawyer
climber
Originally California now Ireland
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Jul 14, 2007 - 01:18pm PT
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Just watched the television news report on the 6:00 news. His friend, Con Moriarty, was with him when it happened. He said Michael was hit by a 'rogue' wave and knocked on his back and slid down into the water.
Navy divers are going to start looking for him in addition to the life boats.
It would be a miracle if he is alive, but here's hoping.
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Jacob
Trad climber
yucky valley
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Jul 14, 2007 - 01:23pm PT
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this is very sad new's. ive only met mike one time but i had dinner with him and a few others after a long day of climbing but he was a very down to earth guy and even offered to go climbing with a young punk like myself.
i hope they find him alive, my best wishes to his family
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rockermike
Mountain climber
Berkeley
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Jul 14, 2007 - 01:43pm PT
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Very sad news. Nefarious said it well above. Sad not only for Michael and his family, but it also makes one aware of the intrinsic sadness of our condition here on the earth. We strive, sometimes heroically for meaning only to come up short and feeling empty.
I must add though, sometime in the last couple of months (maybe reading the "who will free solo el cap" thread) it distinctly went through my mind that one morning I will sign onto Supertopo only to find out that Potter or Reardon or any other of our superheros will have made their one fatal mistake. Now its true. Ironic that it wasn't actually a climbing fall.
Again, very sad.
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v10gripper
Boulder climber
Joshua Tree, CA
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Jul 14, 2007 - 02:16pm PT
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Thats not irony, it just sucks... best wishes and positive vibes for mike, family, and friends.
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addiroid
Big Wall climber
Long Beach, CA
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Jul 14, 2007 - 02:21pm PT
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Very sad. I met Mike before all the controversy, and have enjoyed listening to his stories over the years. Everybody who doubts his claims certainly cannot doubt his energy and love for climbing and his family. Here's to hoping he is found soaked and shivering on a little ledge somewhere ready to write a great story about it after kissing his daughter and wife!
Good luck dude!! Tread water like you solo!
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Jello
Social climber
No Ut
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Jul 14, 2007 - 02:44pm PT
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One force of nature - Michael Reardon - swept off his feet by another force of nature - a "rogue wave". Michael is a rogue, too. I pray he can defy these long odds and return home to his wife and daughter.
Come on, Mike, stay with us! We've only begun to learn what you can teach us.
-Jeff
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Misha
Trad climber
Woodside, CA
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Jul 14, 2007 - 03:21pm PT
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WTF Mike! Come back safe and sound.
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Patrick Sawyer
climber
Originally California now Ireland
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Jul 14, 2007 - 04:40pm PT
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Nothing new, they are still searching.
It doesn't look good. I didn't know the guy but he gave a slide show presentation here in Dublin in January for Outsider magazine. I didn't make it but some other climbers I know and climb with did go. They said that he was frank and honest about the controversy that surrounds him.
Reardon's wife Marci and his 13-year-old daughter were flying overnight to Ireland and are set to arrive in the morning.
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Indianclimber
climber
Las Vegas
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Jul 14, 2007 - 06:33pm PT
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Thank's Patrick,this is all so so sad
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M.Tea
Trad climber
Utah
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Jul 14, 2007 - 06:51pm PT
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postive vibes to Michael and family...this sucks.
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Alois
Social climber
Idyllwild, California
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Jul 14, 2007 - 06:56pm PT
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Words don't describe how I feel. This is terrible news for those of us who met Michael and found him to be wonderful, witty, dreaming, full of energy and only looking forward. A climber in the old and the new. One who read about the old days of the sport, one who aspired to do things the right way, incredibly talented and courageous climber and one who I was immensely proud to call my friend. I will miss you brother Michael. Alois Smrz.
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Karl Baba
Trad climber
Yosemite, Ca
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Jul 14, 2007 - 08:09pm PT
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I've always enjoyed the times I got to hang with Mikey. His larger than life persona was a kick.
I'm going to start in on missing him so if he turns up safe it will be a wonderful miracle.
Some folks destiny is to burn bright and fast, no time and patience for old age.
Much love and standing in Spirit with his family
peace
Karl
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Fluoride
Trad climber
Hollywood, CA
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Jul 14, 2007 - 08:12pm PT
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I'm hoping and praying for a positive outcome. I got to know Michael when I first started climbing and his contagious positive energy is something that every climber should get to experience. Some of my most memorable days of J-Treee climbing involved Michael. He's someone that every time I'd run into him in the past couple years would always give me a good laugh, as well as great inspiration to always go for your goals.
Fingers crossed and hope alive.
B
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MarthaP
climber
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Jul 14, 2007 - 08:43pm PT
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He's a crusty little sh#t and hopefully is hanging out naked in some inlet waiting for the Coast Guard to bring him a margarita.
Marci and Nikki are on their way. Hang in there, Michael. I need to call you an as#@&%e to your face at least one more time.
You are greatly loved. Don't give up. The fat lady hasn't sung yet and you haven't eaten your cake.
Martha
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TYeary
Mountain climber
Calif.
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Jul 14, 2007 - 09:01pm PT
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This is terrible news indeed.
I counted Michael as a friend. He is indeed a lightning rod for contraversey. A true "force of nature". I'm hoping that he is cold and wet, waiting to be plucked from a rock. We discussed the motivation of his detractors at great length and he never sunk to charactor asasination to make his point. He let his climbing speak for it's self. I love the shot of him soloing the Vampire and flipping the bird to his doubters (just to ruffle a few feathers). The look on his face says it all. Those of you who know him, will recognise the imp dancing behind his eyes.
Both of us have daughters. We spent far more time talking about the perils of raising young girls , making that transition to teenagehood, than climbing.
I'm hoping he will emerge from this epic with frightfull stories told manically, over several pints.
My thoughts are going out to you, Michael, and your family.
Tony
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Crimpergirl
Social climber
St. Looney
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Jul 14, 2007 - 09:32pm PT
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I was almost home when I got the call about this. I'm really saddened because this doesn't look good and Michael is a friend. I'm praying for Marci and Nikki.
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Slakkey
Trad climber
From a Quiet Place by the Lake
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Jul 14, 2007 - 09:39pm PT
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I have been watching this unfold today. and Like many have said it does not look good but, lets keep a positive vibe until we hear different.
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trapeze artemis
climber
Surf City
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Jul 14, 2007 - 11:20pm PT
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Don't write mikey off just yet
he's a stubborn irish bulldog.
positive vibes
my best to Marci and Nikki
Hang in there Mikey!
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WBraun
climber
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Jul 14, 2007 - 11:34pm PT
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So any updates?
Over 24 hours in 50 degree F water in the ocean is not conductive for survival.
Looks like he's gone. I find this very strange that the ocean captured him.
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Raydog
Trad climber
Boulder Colorado
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Jul 15, 2007 - 12:34am PT
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Raydog
Trad climber
Boulder Colorado
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Jul 15, 2007 - 12:35am PT
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seems justified...
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marky
climber
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Jul 15, 2007 - 12:42am PT
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like a steam locomotive/rolling down the track...
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Salamanizer
Mountain climber
Vacaville Ca,
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Topic Author's Reply - Jul 15, 2007 - 12:47am PT
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[WBraun wrote]
Looks like he's gone. I find this very strange that the ocean captured him.
Its always what you didn't see comeing. The ocean is a powerfull force as are the rocks we take for granted every day. We must always keep our concious open for what our eyes cannot see.
I find it poetic that it took the might of the ocean to bring down Michael.
I find it sad that it takes a tragedy to bring together the climbing community.
Here's to the brightest flame...
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lex
Big Wall climber
tuscon, AZ
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Jul 15, 2007 - 12:59am PT
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yes, it is the Michael Reardom from Los Angeles, is believed to be consumed by the sea. His wife and child are in route to Ireland to assist in the search. He was on his final day in his Ireland visit and was heading home today.
Keep the faith..... they will resume searching early this am (sunday)....
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Jaybro
Social climber
The West
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Jul 15, 2007 - 01:58am PT
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Almost too poignant, Marky, and, I'm afraid, all too apt.
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tradgirl
Trad climber
Las Vegas, NV
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Jul 15, 2007 - 04:09am PT
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Hoping beyond hope that this really isn't the case and he's found alive. My best to Marci and Nicki. Can't imaging what they must be going through.
Hand in there Mikey. I hope to see your smile, hear your laughter and many many more of your stories soon my friend.
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tom brogan
Trad climber
san diego, ca
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Jul 15, 2007 - 09:39am PT
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Michael,
Josh and Tahquitz will never feel "right" again. I'll see you on the other side. I wish you peace.
Tom Brogan
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Irisharehere
Trad climber
Gunks
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Jul 15, 2007 - 09:45am PT
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The water down there is ass cold. Even in the middle of summer we went out with full 7mm wetsuits on when we were diving around there. Hpefully he managed to haul himself out of the water and is stuck on a cliff somewhere
Irish
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Mees
climber
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Jul 15, 2007 - 10:10am PT
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pulling for Michael
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gail corso
climber
w.htfd. ct
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Jul 15, 2007 - 12:06pm PT
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Michael Reardon did not fall from a climb. He had just completed a small climb and was watching and enjoying the crashing of the waves when a freak wave hit him and pulled him into the ocean. Waves in this area run 30-50ft high.
Keep your prayers going that they find Michael.
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ChrisW
Trad climber
boulder, co
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Jul 15, 2007 - 12:21pm PT
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Best wishes to Reardon's Family.
Somebody posted...."When is this sh#t going to end."
All I gotta say is Climbing is Dangerous!
Chris.
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Fletcher
Trad climber
Varied locales along the time and space continuum
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Jul 15, 2007 - 01:14pm PT
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Shite, I'm off SuperToop for a while and this is tough news to come back to.
Our hearts are singing for you Michael, your family, friends and all.
This is when we really come to see we are one.
Namaste,
Eric
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Doug Robinson
Trad climber
Santa Cruz
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Jul 15, 2007 - 01:28pm PT
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Peace to Michael's wife and daughter.
I think of my kids every time I tie in.
But as someone noted above, it's the unexpected. The sea, not the seacliff; random moments on the freeway...
So Sorry,
Doug Robinson
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poop*ghost
Trad climber
Denver, CO
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Jul 15, 2007 - 01:31pm PT
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I've met Mike a couple times at the Needles - once when he was with his wife. We hiked out to the rocks together a couple of the days - chatting about this and that, his addiction to shoes and bears. That next night a bear was messing about w/ our camp sites and Mike was running around yelling at the bear wearing nothing more than some boots. We all had a great laugh after hearing about it the next morning.
He was kind and funny - motivated and caring.
I'm saddened deeply to hear this news.
Jason Liebgott
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MarthaP
climber
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Jul 15, 2007 - 01:40pm PT
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This press release just sent by Matt Samet:
Michael Reardon Missing in Ireland
Michael Reardon, 36, the accomplished free soloist based out of Oak Park, California, went missing off the southwestern coast of Ireland around 5 p.m. Friday. He had just completed a climb near the Valentia Marine Radio Station, on the small island of Valentia, when a rogue wave took him into the sea. He did not fall 70 feet from the cliff top, or while climbing, as earlier reports had indicated. This is a report from his friend, the photographer Damon Corso, who was there at the time:
“It was just another day of climbing on Atlantic sea cliffs in Ireland with Mike (Reardon). We had arrived on Valentia Island in a slight fog and drizzle. Mike took me around the bottom of Wireless Point to an inlet merely 15 feet above the roaring Atlantic, a situation we were now used to. We arrived at a spot he had climbed at alone two weeks prior. Mike up and downed two different climbs while I shot photos trying to combine him and the raw force of the waves crashing all around us. He finished the two climbs and was waiting, on an-algae covered platform, for the big swells to pass by so that he could walk back over to me on the opposite side of the inlet. A rogue wave came into the inlet and curved rightwards as it crashed into Mike. He tried to stabilize himself on the platform but the water was too powerful and sucked him in. The current pulled Mike out 150-plus meters in mere seconds. I ran up the hill to the Valentia Coast Guard station a mile away. Mike was still conscious in the water when I left him. The Coast Guard arrived on the scene no more than 15 minutes after the incident. Mike was nowhere to be seen at this point. Twelve volunteer rescue boats, the Coast Guard Lifeboat and Chopper were on the scene that evening.”
Rescue services worked until dark on Friday. And on Saturday, more Coast Guard boats and divers from the Naval Service combed the area, with searchers on foot looking along the shore. A helicopter with an infrared scanner searched on Friday and Saturday as well. Reardon had not been found as of Sunday, when it was reported that the search was scaling back.
Please stay tuned to climbing.com for more. The press can contact msamet@climbing.com.
Sources: Damon Corso, www.rte.ie
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nessa
Boulder climber
Hartford, CT
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Jul 15, 2007 - 02:29pm PT
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My brother was with Mike in Ireland. he was walking to get his backpack and the rocks were slippery and a wave hit him and knocked him into the sea....my bro tried to anchor in a rope but mike was too far out, he was conscious....his wife says he is a strong swimmer. My brother ran to the Coast Guard a mile down, he made it there and back in 15 mins..
The wife is arriving in Ireland @ 4pm, and they are in the recovery period, because he has been missing for over 24hrs.
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cybele
Ice climber
finally, west of the Mississippi
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Jul 15, 2007 - 02:32pm PT
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"One force of nature - Michael Reardon - swept off his feet by another force of nature - a rogue wave."
Thank you for posting this report from Damon. It is far too poignant. What an ironic and profound and godly circumstance, in light of the extreme mental places Michael's climbing must have routinely taken him, and the constantly dramatic level of physical risk in soloing. My most sincere empathy to his family.
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devaki
Trad climber
socal
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Jul 15, 2007 - 02:47pm PT
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Michael, you are in my thoughts and prayers- if anyone will come out laughing at this epic it would be you, I send all my love out to Marcie and your daughter... Saturdays in JTree and Crossroads wont be the same
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Degaine
climber
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Jul 15, 2007 - 03:03pm PT
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Sending some positive vibes your way, Michael, hang in there.
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Ezra
Trad climber
WA, NC
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Jul 15, 2007 - 03:48pm PT
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I never knew him, but I will miss him.
Seemed to always march to his own drum. I respect any one who does that.
Peace, and empathy to his family.
-Ezra E
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maldaly
Trad climber
Boulder, CO
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Jul 15, 2007 - 05:22pm PT
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That photo says it all about Michael. Here's a bigger version of him embracing the wave.
I miss you Michael.
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Jordan Ramey
Trad climber
Oklahoma City, OK
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Jul 15, 2007 - 05:58pm PT
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I had just met michael a few months ago in josh. I'm so sorry that may never happen again. He was immediately inspiring. Good thoughts go out to everyone involved. Hang in there.
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jackass
climber
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Jul 15, 2007 - 07:05pm PT
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It is hard to look away from that picture. Loving and living life.
Condolences to family and friends.
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bob d'antonio
Trad climber
Taos, NM
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Jul 15, 2007 - 07:09pm PT
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The power of film. Michael embracing life to it's fullest. I am proud I got the chance to meet you Michael.
Bob
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graham
Social climber
Ventura, California
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Jul 15, 2007 - 07:44pm PT
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This has all been pretty hard to follow and that photo is surreal to look at.
I am sorry I was unable to take his call just before he left for Ireland and was looking forward to hearing the tales when he returned, which I thought to be any day.
It’s again surreal to think I won’t hear from him again. I am very glad I had the chance to know him and even follow the rope he trailed for me a few times.
Be strong Marci, Nikki and all his friends.
Michael’s friend,
Mike Graham
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DeAnn Masin
Sport climber
CO
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Jul 15, 2007 - 07:58pm PT
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Absolutely sucks.
I got to know Michael from the Ogden climbing fest where a handful of climbers were staying in the same house for a weekend. That man loved his wife, daughter and life. I respect him for who he is and what he does. I pray for a miracle but I also send my sympathy to his family and friends. He will be missed.
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JMC
climber
Tucson
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Jul 15, 2007 - 08:54pm PT
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Wretched news. My thoughts go out to his family and friends.
-John
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WBraun
climber
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Jul 15, 2007 - 09:03pm PT
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So big Ocean captures him.
Why no body found? Did his body sink?
Or big fish there swallow?
Maybe later body rise?
R.I.P. Michael you were loved by many.
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cintune
climber
Penn's Woods
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Jul 15, 2007 - 09:24pm PT
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"The most western land of Europe is in County Kerry, Ireland and the extreme point extending into the Atlantic is Valentia - a small island which formerly no doubt was part of the main land and was separated there by the surging tides of countless centuries. The western coast of Ireland is the first line of defense against the warring waters in a stretch of three thousand miles and the scare of the ever persevering enemy are abundantly evident in the broken and irregular coast line where the surge and wave of the angry billows ever play a mournful dirge in the rocky caverns of its veteran cliffs."
http://www.rootsweb.com/~irlker/hagerty.html
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happiegrrrl
Trad climber
New York, NY
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Jul 15, 2007 - 09:27pm PT
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Just got back from another weekend upstate, and came to check in with Supertopo. What a sad thing.
I only sorta met Michael once; he was sitting in Crosroads with someone else, waiting for Crimpie to get there. My partner recognized him and was so excited to be able to meet on of the superstars of climbing that he jumped up and introduced himself, gushing exuberantly. This was just after the Romantic Warrior climb was covered in the magazines. I know that my friend remembers that meeting as one of the highlights of his trip to JTree.
We had camped at Ryan across from Headstone Rock, and another morning a few days later we noticed someone out there pretty early. Long yellow hair, red shirt, downclimbing one the the routes on the south face. No belayer, at least that we saw. We guessed it was Mike, and figured he was coming down Cryptic.
Strength and courage to his wife, family and friends at this time. It must be unimaginably painful to bear.
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Raydog
Trad climber
Boulder Colorado
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Jul 15, 2007 - 09:32pm PT
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RE:
"Why no body found? Did his body sink? "
an article said underwater caves, ledges - that w/ high power wave - water surge - not good.
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looking sketchy there...
Social climber
Latitute 33
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Jul 15, 2007 - 10:12pm PT
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My wife and I are deeply saddened to hear this news. Only a few months ago we ran into him atop a climb at Josh. We extend our sincere sympathies to his family.
S. & R. Vogel
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Slakkey
Trad climber
From a Quiet Place by the Lake
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Jul 15, 2007 - 10:29pm PT
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" Why not Body found"
Werner You know all too well that Nature is a powerful thing. Ocean, Rock, River etc. I hope for the family sake that Michael can be found as it can bring some sense of closeure for them in the future. If not just know that he was doing what he loved best. My thoughts are with the family. I know all to well what it is like to lose a loved one.
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Lost Arrow
Trad climber
The North Ridge of the San Fernando
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Jul 15, 2007 - 10:37pm PT
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Very sad news. I saw Mike a few times at Stoney Point, he seemed like a nice person. Makes my feel sick, I just read this post in the last few minutes. I wish he had slowed down a bit with his dangerous game.
Jeff
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Indianclimber
climber
Las Vegas
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Jul 15, 2007 - 10:38pm PT
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Taken in February at his slide show in Vegas
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Wild Bill
climber
Ca
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Jul 15, 2007 - 11:27pm PT
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Where did you go?
Why were you taken?
To Reardon and all the other early departers, lounging away like carefree bastards . . .
A postcard or phone call would be nice. There's hard times back here ya know.
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Matt
Trad climber
the land where lois don't roam
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Jul 15, 2007 - 11:43pm PT
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don't be too suprised if van halen sports a new lead singer in a few months...
the one time i ever met the guy he patiently watched me flail on left ski track, trying to get a flaring jamb where folks grab the fin (i had never seen it go and had no idea, i wanted to stay in the crack...). he was back near the parking lot, just hanging out between scrambles and watching me for a bit. i knew who he was and i knew he was watching me, i kinda figured maybe i was clogging his solo circut or something.
finally i took an lowered off to try again from the ground, and when i sheepishly glanced in his direction, all he said was "trust your gear, you're fine on that, you'll be fine, you have it no problem..."
(after another try i asked him for the beta and it was only then that it was no problem)
the impression he made upon me was that he was the nicest guy in the world, and fully supportive and encouraging of some random climber he had never met. i wish i'd known him better.
best wishes to those who were close with him, and to his family of course.
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wildone
climber
Where you want to be
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Jul 16, 2007 - 12:07am PT
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From the previous newspaper article link...
..."Sometimes Reardon's talent mixed with comedy.
This Thanksgiving, Reardon was about 25 feet up a rock wall in Joshua Tree National Park outside Indio when he looked ready to fall, said Weston Ureda, a climbing instructor at Boulderdash.
Instead of falling, the pro merely cursed, complained that his daughter put Abba on his iPod and changed the song, all while hanging on by only a sliver of rock, Ureda said."...
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ruby
Boulder climber
new orleans
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Jul 16, 2007 - 12:24am PT
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This is a report from his friend, the photographer Damon Corso, who was there at the time:
"It was just another day of climbing on Atlantic sea cliffs in Ireland with Mike (Reardon). We had arrived on Valentia Island in a slight fog and drizzle. Mike took me around the bottom of Wireless Point to an inlet merely 15 feet above the roaring Atlantic, a situation we were now used to. We arrived at a spot he had climbed at alone two weeks prior. Mike up and downed two different climbs while I shot photos trying to combine him and the raw force of the waves crashing all around us. He finished the two climbs and was waiting, on an-algae covered platform, for the big swells to pass by so that he could walk back over to me on the opposite side of the inlet. A rouge wave came into the inlet and curved rightwards as it crashed into Mike. He tried to stabilize himself on the platform but the water was too powerful and sucked him in. The current pulled Mike out 150-plus meters in mere seconds. I ran up the hill to the Valentia Coast Guard station a mile away. Mike was still conscious in the water when I left him. The Coast Guard arrived on the scene no more than 15 minutes after the incident. Mike was nowhere to be seen at this point. Twelve volunteer rescue boats, the Coast Guard Lifeboat and Chopper were on the scene that evening."
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James Doty
Trad climber
Idyllwild, Ca.
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Jul 16, 2007 - 12:43am PT
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I encountered Mr.Reardon briefly at Josh. He came off as playfully arrogant, the type of arrogance that comes with being goodhearted and light years ahead of EVERYONE else. I did not know him, as I shed tears for him and his family most of all. He was a Complete And Total Stud with balls like grapefruits. Hope he is alive, kind of doubt it. Climb on,Hoka Hey!!
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GrandMastaD
Social climber
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Jul 16, 2007 - 12:54am PT
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I also met Michael at Josh a few times. I found it suprising that such a high profile indivudal could be so down to earth. The times we talked, he was genuinly interested in who I was as a person and what I was climbing.
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T2
climber
Cardiff by the sea
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Jul 16, 2007 - 01:20am PT
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Sheesh! This is really sad news. This story is proof that the playgounds we visit (The crags, mountains and ocean) can have serious consequences.
Having casually known Mike (last seeing him in the Pallisades last summer) there was no question about his love and enthusiasim for life, climbing and his family. He once told me at Humber park a few years back on how gratefull he was to have a wife that loved him and gave him the freedom to do what he did, this comment came as he was snacking from a lunch she had packed for him that day.
I have openly crtiticized Mike for some of his claims and his style of signing Sierra summit registers by leaving womens panties in the register. I will not miss having to remove any panties in order to read or sign a register again, but I will miss his very apparent lust for life. His passing does not change my views but has affected me none the less. The people in this world that are afraid of dieing, are the same ones that are afraid to live. Mike was certainly afraid of niether. Another one of the tribe I hope continues to climb on the other side.
Mikes family and friends are in my prayers.
Best Regards
Tommy Thompson
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Echo
Trad climber
San Diego, CA.
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Jul 16, 2007 - 01:45am PT
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Its really hard to accept this. I had met Mike a few times and had the pleasure of watching him climb once. Through our brief conversations at times, he made quite the impression on me and I just know that Tahquitz and Josh won't quite be the same now. My thoughts are with his wife and daughter.
Cheers to you Mike!
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Jello
Social climber
No Ut
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Jul 16, 2007 - 01:51am PT
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Marci and Nicki-
Michael has had a big and positive impact on me. He spoke about both of you with obvious and absolute pride and love. It made me respect him even more than his climbing talents, which were huge. I've tried to hold out hope. For Michael. For you. He loved Ireland, his ancestral home. His energy seems to have blended with the sea on that beautiful, rugged coastline.
I miss him already, but I can't fathom the depth of your loss. If there is anything I can do, I'm available at any time.
With much love,
-Jeff Lowe
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Russ Walling
Social climber
Out on the sand.... man.....
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Jul 16, 2007 - 01:55am PT
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So very sad... all the best to those that remain.
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Gene
climber
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Jul 16, 2007 - 02:19am PT
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Eternal Father, Strong to save,
Whose arm hath bound the restless wave,
Who bid'st the mighty Ocean deep
Its own appointed limits keep;
O hear us when we cry to thee,
for those in peril on the sea.
I pray for God's grace and love for his daughter, wife, family and friends.
I saw a shooting star last night.
GM
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up2top
Big Wall climber
Phoenix, AZ
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Jul 16, 2007 - 03:17am PT
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My thoughts and prayers go out to Mike's friends and family, and like many have expressed, I'm still hoping for a miracle. Mike and I had our differences in the online world but I know several people who were his close friends -- it's clear that he loved those around him as with as much passion as he devoted to his climbing and likely even more so. Mike was unapologetically himself and by all accounts lived a very empassioned and intense life. It's hard to believe that he may no longer be with us.
I ran into Mike at JTree last Thanksgiving. He was having a usual Reardon day soloing around the routes at Indian Cove. We had met briefly a couple of times before but it was the first chance I'd had to speak with him about some nasty and personal conflicts we'd had online during the time he was running things over on RC.com. We spoke a few minutes about how unimportant the whole web bullshit really is and how silly those interactions are compared to the things that really matter in our lives -- family, friends, climbing...living. I'm glad I had the chance to bury the proverbial hatchet.
Mike was wise to walk away from the cyber-strife. Life really is too short to get wrapped up in the conflict of personalities and issues we often help to perpetuate in these forums. Hats off to him for focusing his energy in more meaningful and positive directions. The void his passing will leave in the lives of those close to him must be tremendous and my heart goes out to those of you coping with his loss.
Ed
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Curt
Boulder climber
Gilbert, AZ
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Jul 16, 2007 - 03:19am PT
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I certainly enjoyed the times I spent bouldering with Michael in Joshua Tree and the evenings I spent with him at the Crossroads Cafe and around the campfire listening to his tall tales of adventure. I also remember how happy Michael was that I could introduce him to John Gill a few years ago so that he could interview Gill for his upcoming film about John Bachar. Michael did indeed have an infectious enthusiasm for our sport that will be dearly missed.
Curt
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Anastasia
Trad climber
California
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Jul 16, 2007 - 03:30am PT
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I have been traveling and I just heard about Mike from John. I am shocked, horrified and feeling very numb. Mike is a wonderful person that makes me laugh so hard that it threatens to break a rib.
I am not able to think of him as gone so I won't.
Marci, my heart is out in Ireland with you.
Sending all my love, hopes, strength,
Anastasia Frangos
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Sammatt
climber
Boulder
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Jul 16, 2007 - 05:35am PT
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It's so good to see everyone thinking of Michael right now. One thing you all need to know is that we don't know, nor do we need to know, how soon before the wave hit the photo was taken -- that's not important, and any number would be speculation.
What's important is that it's Michael doing his thing -- being Michael Reardon -- at play with the sea and the rocks, and that's what matters. Thanks for all of your kind thoughts. Stay safe on the rocks and off.
Matt
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Patrick Sawyer
climber
Originally California now Ireland
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Jul 16, 2007 - 09:36am PT
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Nothing new to report. They are still searching for Michael. Like others, I would like to think that he is sitting on some ledge or shelf off the water, waiting to be plucked up by some boat or helicopter.
Unfortunately, that is not the case, so it appears.
Reardon apparently loved Ireland so it is poetic in some sense that his last days were spent here.
RIP Michael Reardon (and I do hope that this is premature).
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full stottie
Trad climber
North East UK
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Jul 16, 2007 - 09:55am PT
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It does look as if its true. The news is all over the UK climbing websites today. Sad news indeed.
e.g.
http://planetfear.com/news_detail.asp?n_id=6335&dm_i=136236801
He seemed to be a very rare type of climber and person - inspirational and willing to push it out. You never know what's going to get you and when, so he did his thing as he wanted. Its a lesson I need to keep re-learning too......
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happiegrrrl
Trad climber
New York, NY
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Jul 16, 2007 - 10:09am PT
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There's a post update on rc.com, about a memorial that will be held for Michael on Tuesday, over in Ireland.
Here's the link(this is page 3 of the thread, instead of the start, fyi), and a copy of the pertaining post.
http://www.rockclimbing.com/cgi-bin/forum/gforum.cgi?do=post_view_flat;post=1630467;page=3;sb=post_latest_reply;so=ASC;mh=25;guest=17379393
This update is via the main Irish Climbing site: www.climbing.ie
In order to honour Michael and his great love of climbing here in Ireland, a memorial gathering of his family and friends will take place next Tuesday 17/07 at 4pm. This gathering will take place at the Fogher Cliffs, adjacent to the Coast Guard Station, where Michael was taken from us. All are welcome to attend.
The site can be reached by taking the 'Ring of Valentia' road from Knightstown on Valentia Island and following the signs for 'The lighthouse Café' and 'Tetrapods'. We hope that some of you can attend and if so please respect the local community, who have self-lessly helped in the search, by driving and parking sensibly on the small roads of the island.
I can't help but think it would be quite something if he pulled a Tom Sawyer and showed up at his own memorial, with stories of days spent at an "uninhabited island"(in climbing parlance, that would be unclimbed cliffs), and "dreams" had of those in mourning - word for word accounts(gleaned from the internet of course - what Huck would have done if he'd been around about now!), just like in The Adventures of.... The hide-tanning would be well worth it, though.
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Crimpergirl
Social climber
St. Looney
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Jul 16, 2007 - 11:39am PT
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Here are some more photos of him. These are from Crossroads in March 06. It was such a fun evening - Reardon, Bacher, Anastasia, Aldude, me and several others. It was this evening that I met Happiegrrrl and others too. Such fun - lots of laughing.
While these photos are similar, I post them for Mike's family and friends.
A quick story that still makes me cackle: I was out in J-tree in November of 05 hanging out with Mike, Hottie Wes, Mark Niles and a couple of youngins' from the L.A. area. Shack came out to play for a day as well. Every time that Mark would walk away and leave his camera unattended, Mike would pick it up and snap a lot of hilarious shots involving near-nudity. Pictures down pants, pictures down shirts, near-topless photos, etc. Mark would come back and we'd be snickering like a bunch of 5th grade boys and he'd wonder why.
Here is one of the youngins' (sorry I forgot his name) "belaying" at Coarse and Buggy. We were silly beyond silly.
One of the cool things about Mike is he really is/was a sensitive soul and a gentleman. I really respected the loving way he talked about his wife and daughter. And he walked that walk too.
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paganmonkeyboy
Trad climber
the blighted lands of hatu
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Jul 16, 2007 - 12:00pm PT
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My sincerest condolences for the friends and family - this is very very sad news. I only met him briefly but I thought Mike was a great guy...
Tom
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Micheal
Mountain climber
Valentia
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Jul 16, 2007 - 12:52pm PT
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I never knew Michael Reardon, but was at his lecture in Dublin earlier this year. I am from Valentia Island, and have climbed on the rocks where he was taken away last Friday (on the easier routes!). Many people have been swept off the rocks on Valentia Island over the years and the only cases of survival involved the fallers swimming away from the rocks and awaiting the lifeboat. It is hard to understand how he disappeared, given that he was conscious and away from the rocks. The current may have been extremely strong, and low body fat would be a disadvantage in the cold water.
The people of Valentia are in shock over his latest tragedy. Michael's joie de vivre has made an impression on us all, even for those who have only heard second-hand accounts of his life. Assuming the worst, the only thing that remains for the rest of us is to take care of his family.
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handsome B
Gym climber
SL,UT
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Jul 16, 2007 - 12:59pm PT
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I met Mike last year while he was volunteering at and ovarian cancer fund-raiser. http://www.herafoundation.org
He was super-psyched to be helping out and his boundless enthusiasm helped push everyone towards their goals.
We will miss you Mike.
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Tarbuster
climber
right here, right now
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Jul 16, 2007 - 01:07pm PT
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So very sad.
My heart goes out to the family.
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Patrick Sawyer
climber
Originally California now Ireland
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Jul 16, 2007 - 01:37pm PT
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Micheál, what’s the latest from Valentia?
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Micheal
Mountain climber
Valentia
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Jul 16, 2007 - 01:45pm PT
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Weather is much better today. Boats still going out. Divers have been down and may have been into the nearby caves by now.
Will update with any further news later this evening or in the morning. I'll try to contact Con Moriarty though he is very upset by the whole thing and probably needs another phone call like a hole in the head.
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tradgirl
Trad climber
Las Vegas, NV
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Jul 16, 2007 - 03:38pm PT
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I'm posting this quote from a reporter from crimpermag who posted it at rc.com
"from an interview I did with Michael on Crimpermag.com:
JM. To conclude, if the unthinkable ever happened, what would you most like to be remembered for? (This needn't be climbing related - I personally believe that the reason I was put on this planet is for my son Sam).
MR. Don’t shed a tear, raise a pint and laugh because I’m living hard and loving harder than anyone has a right to. Besides, the devil won’t have me and we know the old man upstairs isn’t opening the gates so I’ll still be around and giggling right along with you until we meet again."
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P.B.
Trad climber
Granite Bay, CA
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Jul 16, 2007 - 03:57pm PT
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Been out of the scene so just heard the news...
Michael was one a handful of people in this world I counted as one of my best and most trusted friends. We trusted each other with our lives, our thoughts and our fears. We loved each other like brothers, you know a love hate sort of thing. Though we have seen little of each other in recent years we talked about once a month and in fact the last time I spoke to him was just prior to his recent departure for Ireland. I had him calandered for a call this morning.......Fk. I will never forget the countless days of climbing with Michael and the rest of the gang, Mark, Frank, Ronnie, Wes, Tad, Mike, Diana etc. Josh, Idylwild, The Needles, Lovers Leap, Donner etc. The days filming for the Climb On series with the "Traveling Road Show". The nights BSing around the campfire drinking "glasses" of wine and potent Meyers coctails...........Fk. So much more to say but I can't see the screen through my tears...
Michael, Marci & Nikki you are in our prayers.
Love,
Warren, Sharon, Brandon & Ally
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EZHarrison
Boulder climber
Boulder, CO
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Jul 16, 2007 - 05:08pm PT
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Michael Reardon
7/14/2007
As I sit here contemplating what to do next, I am staring at the Rockies with a massive storm pounding the mountain range with a purple furry of rain and lightning. I just hung up the phone with my good buddy Buck and he just informed me about a mutual friend not only to myself and Buck, but to the climbing community as a whole. I guess Michael Reardon has fallen into the ocean while checking out a climb on the coast of Ireland. A rogue wave washed Mike into the ocean and swept him out to sea. Another climber that was with Mike, called the Coast Guard and other authorities for help on Friday. They are still searching for him. There are articles on line for the full details.
He was just in town not but a month ago and we drank beer laughing about stupid sh#t. Mike has made a name for himself with his amazing solos, but he will always be just Mike, the kind of guy who screams hello from across the bar and always shakes your hand with a huge smile on his face. Genuine is the one word that I would use to describe Mike. A lot of people talked a lot of sh#t about Mike’s accomplishments, but he did what he loved to do. I get pissed when people have to down talk anyone who does something big even if it is out of character. Mike was one of those people who liked everyone and never judged anyone who was maybe not as crazy as he was or didn’t climb as hard. In my eyes, Mike was just being Mike and living life as he knew how. He loved his family, his friends and his climbing. I am happy for Mike, because he did what he loved to do and proved everyone wrong.
I bumped into Mike years ago in Bishop while he was working on “High Plains Drifter”. He was having a hell of a time. He tried and tried, but couldn’t send on that trip. I would bump into him at JTree after he just soloed some route and asked if I would go with. There was no way I was going to go soloing, and I thought to myself, you crazy bastard, you can solo this, but you can’t do “High Plains Drifter”. He eventually sent “High Plains Drifter”, but I would always trip how he could do such hard ass routes and not do “High Plains”. I have no idea what his motivation was or why he did what he did, but I do know, he did do what he did and he did it well.
I don’t want to think that he is gone forever; I want to have hope that the Coast Guard will find him in some cave just kickin it, waiting for the seas to calm down. Mike, if you are out there, come home and make us all laugh again.
Thank you for reading this and please pray for Mike and his family.
Eric “EZ” Harrison
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Ksolem
Trad climber
LA, Ca
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Jul 16, 2007 - 06:11pm PT
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I refuse to believe this latest news about Michael Reardon unless someone can show me a video, certified to be unedited, and confirmed by the testimony of at least 10 reliable witnesses.
nevermind.
MR was a great guy. Every time I would run into him he would brighten my day with his brilliant attitude.
I am deeply saddenned by this news, and to Marci and Nikki I wish to express my most heartfelt good wishes for a wonderful future.
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Mighty Hiker
Social climber
Vancouver, B.C.
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Jul 16, 2007 - 08:09pm PT
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This is very sad news indeed, and my sympathies go out to Michael's family and friends, especially Marci and Nikki. I hope against hope that a miracle will happen.
I was away over the weekend at Squamish Mountain Festival 2007, but a few people passed on the news. Michael spoke at the festival last year, and was most entertaining. As the event was to benefit our Access Society, he volunteered to speak for expenses only, which was a big help. I believe he did the same for other good causes, such as HERA.
I was lucky enough to spend a day with Michael. I'd briefly met him before, but he struck me as a lively and entertaining character, and of course a prodigious climber. We enjoyed his visit, and will be sorry if we don't see him again.
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Nefarius
Big Wall climber
Fresno, CA
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Jul 16, 2007 - 08:21pm PT
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Good call, Kat. =)
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TYeary
Mountain climber
Calif.
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Jul 16, 2007 - 09:00pm PT
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It has taken a while for the full meaning of this tragedy to become somewhat clear. It is almost always like that for me. I wait for the smoke to clear and, reality, once again, rears it's ugly head. This is most sureal.
Michael was slated to present a muti-medi program for my club next month on the 16th. True to form, he agreed to do it for "beer and cigaretes". That's what friends do.
There are those who question the validity of some of Michael's climbs. That is what happens when a star burns so bright as to eclipse those stars that shone before. I for one, never doubted Micheal's achievements. In our world, climbers have always taken each other at their word. Not so anymore. It is the times in which we find ourselves I guess. So be it.
What is clear, is that we have abruptly lost a husband, father, son and friend.
I will miss you.
Till we see each other again, good climbing and God's speed, Michael.
Tony
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Fluoride
Trad climber
Hollywood, CA
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Jul 16, 2007 - 09:23pm PT
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Ekat I second your motion. Martha and everyone arguing about that photo, I don't mean to sound like a beeyatch but please take the arguing and negatvity somewhere else.
Let this be a thread to share our thoughts, concerns and memories of Michael. I learned about this Friday night and my weekend was one of grieving for a truly amazing person who I feel so fortunate to have known. And will miss greatly.
I'm still numb. And still clinging to hope that he's somewhere in a sea cave just waiting to be found.
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Broken
climber
Texas
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Jul 16, 2007 - 09:26pm PT
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So sad. The world is so cold and hard, sometimes.
I did not know Michael Reardon, but I admired him.
I hope his family finds peace.
And, on a far lesser note, I hope that the movie he was working on is completed someday. Selfishly, I'd love to see more footage of him climbing.
In the meantime, I'll just imagine him and Hersey (et al) high up somewhere, unroped, laughing, long hair flapping in the wind...
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bob d'antonio
Trad climber
Taos, NM
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Jul 16, 2007 - 09:34pm PT
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I love that photo...It shows Michael embracing life.
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10b4me
climber
bitd
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Jul 16, 2007 - 10:09pm PT
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There are those who question the validity of some of Michael's climbs. That is what happens when a star burns so bright as to eclipse those stars that shone before. I for one, never doubted Micheal's achievements.
let's talk about this when I see you at work.
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jackass
climber
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Jul 16, 2007 - 10:16pm PT
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I didn't read anywhere anything that insinuated that the picture was of the actual wave that took him out to sea.
The picture speaks for itself and is really a gift.
Most importantly is the support we give those left behind. Peace be with all of you.
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Lost Arrow
Trad climber
The North Ridge of the San Fernando
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Jul 17, 2007 - 12:48am PT
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stoney Point just did not seem the same today after such a tragic loss.
jeff
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guyman
Trad climber
Moorpark, CA.
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Jul 17, 2007 - 12:59am PT
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This is so sad and messed up. Going to miss having you around. Thank you for showing us all how to live and have fun.
RIP
Guy Keesee
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Jello
Social climber
No Ut
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Jul 17, 2007 - 01:42am PT
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Michael, you spoke of Ireland, your ancestral home as if it was your home. I guess you really knew deep down that it is; and now always will be. The Irish are the best storytellers of all. Your own story would be unbelievable if it weren't true. You embraced life (most especially your family life) with open arms and heart. Yours is a story - an example - for the ages.
Once again, goodbye, my friend. Thanks for shining your vibrant light into the darkness.
-Jeff
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klk
Trad climber
cali
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Jul 17, 2007 - 02:00am PT
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this is so f*#ked up. i was in donner all weekend and just got in. checked email then came here, god knows why, and almost didn't click this thread because i assumed it was another idiotic flame war.
i started coming to this site when raleigh died. it's gotten to the point that i almost dread opening the frickin thing.
funny thing is, i didn't think i liked michael the first time i met him-- he just wouldn't shut up! i usually trust my first impressions, but i got to really, really like the guy. he was a good craftsman on the rock and behind a camera.
i wish the best for his family--
kerwin
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Patrick Sawyer
climber
Originally California now Ireland
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Jul 17, 2007 - 08:11am PT
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Some good words here on this thread for a man I never met.
Well put Jello/Jeff.
Bob d', I agree with you about the photo. Whether or not it was appropriate to post, I’ll leave that to the ‘judges’.
As I posted earlier, he apparently loved Ireland, so if one has to go it might as well be someplace one holds dear.
This saga and tragedy sort of reminds me of JM Synge’s play, Riders to the Sea.
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Brunosafari
Boulder climber
Redmond, OR
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Jul 17, 2007 - 10:55am PT
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I also, felt admiration and kinship for Michael. God's comfort to you, Chosen Ones, his Loved Ones, in this period of deepest sorrow. Bruce Adams
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bob d'antonio
Trad climber
Taos, NM
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Jul 17, 2007 - 11:06am PT
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For the past four days I been checking this thread hoping that maybe ...just maybe Michael could have pull this one out.
If there is anything that I can do for Michael family please let me know.
We loss a special one.
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curlie
Trad climber
SLO, CA
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Jul 17, 2007 - 11:25am PT
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Ugh. I too waited several days to click on this thread, thinking it yet another controversy. I really wish that it was!
I only knew Michael very casually through Stoney, but the few times we hung out and bouldered were fun. He had this incessant energy about him that will surely be missed. It's sad to think that I won't run into him again at Stoney or in the Meadows or at J-Tree.
Regardless of hype, opinions, and controversy, it's very tragic that someone so vibrant, in the prime of life, is suddenly and inexplicably gone.
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G_Gnome
Trad climber
Knob Central
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Jul 17, 2007 - 11:51am PT
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It's bad enough that we lost Mike, but the irony of the whole deal is almost too much for my little brain. Climb on Mike! We'll miss you. It was always fun hanging with you. My deepest sympathies to those left behind.
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Lambone
Ice climber
Ashland, Or
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Jul 17, 2007 - 12:40pm PT
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I met Mike at ABS Nationals in Mayland last February. He gave his show, which seemed to go over the heads of most of the bouldering crowd. I had a good time talking with him, it wasn't like talking to some famous guy, it was like talking to just another climber...only funnier then most any climbver i vere met.
RIP Mike. Best wishes and regards to your wife and daughter, may they cary on your flame.
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nita
climber
chico ca
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Jul 17, 2007 - 01:15pm PT
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So sad... thoughts and prayers of comfort,for Michael's family.
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Chiloe
Trad climber
Lee, NH
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Jul 17, 2007 - 01:35pm PT
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From joy to tragedy in a second. My heart goes out to Michael and all the people who loved and knew him.
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Off-Width Loving Crack Whore
Trad climber
SLO
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Jul 17, 2007 - 02:17pm PT
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Don't know what to say other than how f-ing bummed I am.
Michael was a wonderful human being.
While working with him on his biography/tribute to Bachar we had several hour long phone calls that usually consisted of 5 minutes of real work and the rest of the time pure laughter.
If I have to "Remember" him rather than bump into him at J-Tree then that's the memory I'm going to keep.
Thank you for inspiring me Michael.
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asioux
Trad climber
pasadena,ca
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Jul 17, 2007 - 02:55pm PT
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Just got the news last night. Was out at Josh climbing this weekend, and thought to myself I have to drop Mike a line to say hi. I and a friend were just talking about him, and then I got the news. I am very very sad about this. I will miss humor and kindness. Armando
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Conrad
climber
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Jul 17, 2007 - 03:59pm PT
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Michael's personality, love of family and connection to climbing are evident in the previous posts with the many sincere words.
To his wife, daughter, parents and siblings my heart goes out to all of you. The finality of Friday’s accident is a tremendous burden and your well being is with us in thought.
To your friends, Marci and Nikki, who in the coming weeks will be there for you :
thanks.
Your presence will make a huge difference. The solace of friendship is healing.
To Michael – thanks for turning up the volume. You breathed life into the ropeless ascent and in doing so held the bolt of ligtning. As climbers we aspire to grab the bolt and feel it's energy. Few get close, some touch it and the ones that hold it are few. You did so longer than most and in doing so shared it's energy with us.
With condolences and empathy,
Conrad Anker
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Anastasia
Trad climber
California
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Jul 17, 2007 - 04:47pm PT
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I am hoping he is still alive entertaining some unknown russian fisherman with rude gestures and his carefree laugh.
Michael, please make me right about this one.
Anastasia
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apples
climber
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Jul 17, 2007 - 05:56pm PT
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I think that photo is a beautiful thing. When freak accidents like this happen it makes me realize (over and over) that you must live every minute of your life to its fullest because you never know when something will happen and I think that photo really shows that Michael really did do just that.
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Lost Arrow
Trad climber
The North Ridge of the San Fernando
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Jul 17, 2007 - 08:00pm PT
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I wanted to place some flowers on the summit of boulder one with a picture of mike. Can someone post a picturer for me and I can print it out on the laser printer.
Thanks
Jeff
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onyourleft
Social climber
SmogAngeles
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Jul 17, 2007 - 09:08pm PT
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I first met Michael at Malibu Creek. I was traversing the high-water above the creek on my approach to the Ghetto and I heard a top-of-the-lungs scream, a rebel yell, a war whoop at maximum decibels. I turned and saw Michael topping out on some heinous crimp-fest. His absolute joy was so infectious that our whole party ended up mostly not climbing, just sitting, spectating, and admiring this force of nature.
Next I ran in to him multiple times at Boulderdash, Climbing Gym in Thousand Oaks, CA. He was usually there with Marci and Nikki. He was always quick to offer beta on a new route, or a belay to a partner-less climber. He was very proud of his climbing accomplishments but by no means was he a spraylord. He was equally proud of his producing and directing credits in the entertainment industry.
Boulderdash is hosting a Vigil of Hope for Michael's safe return
Wednesday, July 18, 9-11P
880 Hampshire Road, Suite A
Thousand Oaks, CA 91361
805.557.1300
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funkness
climber
Ca.
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Jul 17, 2007 - 10:43pm PT
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Met Michael at Stoney Point many years ago, before he was famous. Spent many an evening bouldering with him and the Tuesday/Thursday crew. Back then, he was just a regular dude, never would have figured he'd become one of the most famous free-soloists in the world. His rockstar hair and infectious sense of humor definately made him stand out though. He was a really nice guy, fun to be around, a gregarious individual.
Kinda Ironic, Mike Strassman who recently passed away, was also a climbing video producer, who was very well like by many and had an outgoing personaltiy. RIP
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pyro
Big Wall climber
Ventura
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Jul 17, 2007 - 11:28pm PT
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R.I.P Mr Reardon.
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Fluoride
Trad climber
Hollywood, CA
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Jul 17, 2007 - 11:51pm PT
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So true funkness that he was just such a regular guy. I remember one evening in J-Tree years back when I saw him in Hidden Valley campground when I was still kind of a greenhorn and he hasn't become Mr. Solo Badass yet. There was still a little light left and the sunset looked like it was going to be a good one. I said doing Overhang Bypass would be a great spot to watch it and he said he hadn't done that route and let's go. I knew he was a far better climber than me and that roping up for a 5.7 could be a pretty unchallenging experience for him but he ran up that thing with enough enthusiasm as if he were freesoloing 5.11. He placed a red alien for me as a directional on the second half. We topped out right when the sunset was hitting perfectly. He even was like "good call, that was a fun little climb. This sunset is sweet!" or something reall positive along those lines. We sat there and laughed and gabbed for a bit then rapped off.
Not many people of his caliber would rope up and climb a 5.7 for a friend, but that's the kind of guy he is. He climbed with pure joy, no matter what he was on. Michael and rock were the most contagiously wonderful combo.
And again I have to concur with what everyone has said about his love and pride for his family. My thoughts are with Marci and Nikki. I sit here thinking how heartbreaking this loss is for all of us, but for them it's so much deeper a loss. I really only met Marci once or twice out at the crags, but she seemed like the perfect match for Michael.
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tradgirl
Trad climber
Las Vegas, NV
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Jul 18, 2007 - 03:47am PT
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Beth, you should be able to pick up a USB multi-card reader for about $20.
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Cathal
Mountain climber
Co Kerry, Ireland
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Jul 18, 2007 - 05:07am PT
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Hi all,
Just to let you know, a beautiful ceremony in Michael's memory was held on Valentia Island yesterday evening. A crowd of about 200 gathered to celebrate his life with music, song and many, many stories. It is testament to Michael's popularity that he touched so many peoples lives within his short visits to Kerry. A plaque made from Valentia slate was unveiled by Marci which reads 'Mícheál Ó Ríordáin - An Solas Geal Lonrach. Son, Husband, Father, Friend. Inspirational Free Spirit. 1965-2007'
I only met Michael once, a few months ago in the Gap of Dunloe. There's no doubt, but that he was a larger than life character, inspiring so many on his way (and even courting a certain amount of controversy on his first day in the Gap!).
Good luck Michael, An Solas Geal Lonrach (The blinding light).
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Patrick Sawyer
climber
Originally California now Ireland
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Jul 18, 2007 - 08:38am PT
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From Today's Irish Independent
Renowned climber is praised on fatal cliff-top
By Anne Lucey
Wednesday July 18 2007
ROCK climber Michael Reardon pushed himself to the limit of his abilities, but ships were never meant to remain in harbours.
Tribute was paid to the fearless way the solo climber lived his life, at a moving ceremony on the cliff-top overlooking his last dramatic climb on Valentia Island, Co Kerry yesterday.
Up to 150 people gathered in sunshine to pay their respects to the 35-year-old American who was washed out to sea on Friday, after scaling the cliff-face twice.
A hundred feet below, Navy and Garda sub-aqua teams scoured the sea-bed for any trace of the man renowned among climbers and mountaineers for his daring exploits without ropes or safety equipment.
A traditional lament on harp and tin whistle opened the ceremony attended by the missing man's wife Marci, their 13-year-old daughter Nicki, close friends, members of the rescue services, the gardai, local people and well-known figures from the sporting and climbing worlds.
These included the mountain-running champion John Lenihan and Kerry football great and island native Mick O'Connell.
Father Kevin McNamara, a curate attached to Killarney parish, led the prayers. Michael Reardon "wouldn't hurt a rock by putting a claw into it", in order to preserve it for future generations, he said.
He had left a mark that would never be forgotten. He had pushed things to the limit. A ship was safe when in harbour, but that was not what ships were for, the priest said.
West Kerry GP and poet Micheal Fanning read two of his poems: 'I run with the winds and moods', which he dedicated to Mr Reardon's daughter, and 'Odysseus', a poem about daring people and those waiting for them, dedicated to Marci Reardon.
Extraordinary
Among many contributors, Mr Reardon's friend and mountaineer Con Moriarty, with whom he stayed while in Kerry, said people had gathered to honour "a beautiful man" and a "truly extraordinary" climber. "I saw him as an artist," he added.
Towards the end of the ceremony, Nicki, tearful throughout the hour-long ceremony, spoke briefly of her father who was "louder" than most people and larger than life.
Flowers were brought to the scene along with a plaque made of local Valentia slate. A haunting rendition on the bagpipes of the Blasket island elegy 'Port na bPucai', an air said to echo the journey of the departing soul, ended the ceremony.
Those on the cliff waved to the divers on the boats below.
Mr Moriarty asked for prayers that the ongoing search would bring closure for Mr Reardon's friends and family.
 Anne Lucey
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happiegrrrl
Trad climber
New York, NY
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Jul 18, 2007 - 09:51am PT
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That story of his memorial service sounds really beautiful. Thanks for posting it.
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Largo
Sport climber
Venice, Ca
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Jul 18, 2007 - 10:40am PT
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I just interviewed MR for a special feature we were doing for a 25th aniversary release of the ghost movie, Poltergeist. It´s an amazing interview from a fantastic, gracious guy. If you ever get a chance to rent that old Speilberg film, do so just to see MR talk about spirit guides and his free soloing (he provided some great free soloing footage as well).
I am very sorry and my deepest condolences to his wife, daughter and all his many friends.
JL
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Largo
Sport climber
Venice, Ca
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Jul 18, 2007 - 12:08pm PT
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I would also like to know what actually happened to Mike.
There´s this version--
They had just completed their climb and removed their gear to go walking when one of them "slipped on kelp".
"He fell about 70 feet into the water," the spokeswoman said.
And this version--
On Friday last, Michael was climbing beneath the Fogher Cliffs on Valentia Island, Co Kerry. Having completed his climbs for the day he was packing his equipment when he was swept out from the base of the cliffs by a wave. His companion raised the alarm immediately at the nearby Coast Guard station and a rescue was launched immediately.
Those are two totally different scenarios.
JL
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jstan
climber
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Jul 18, 2007 - 12:23pm PT
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Eyewitness report from post 107 by "ruby".
This is a report from his friend, the photographer Damon Corso, who was there at the time:
"It was just another day of climbing on Atlantic sea cliffs in Ireland with Mike (Reardon). We had arrived on Valentia Island in a slight fog and drizzle. Mike took me around the bottom of Wireless Point to an inlet merely 15 feet above the roaring Atlantic, a situation we were now used to. We arrived at a spot he had climbed at alone two weeks prior. Mike up and downed two different climbs while I shot photos trying to combine him and the raw force of the waves crashing all around us. He finished the two climbs and was waiting, on an-algae covered platform, for the big swells to pass by so that he could walk back over to me on the opposite side of the inlet. A rouge wave came into the inlet and curved rightwards as it crashed into Mike. He tried to stabilize himself on the platform but the water was too powerful and sucked him in. The current pulled Mike out 150-plus meters in mere seconds. I ran up the hill to the Valentia Coast Guard station a mile away. Mike was still conscious in the water when I left him. The Coast Guard arrived on the scene no more than 15 minutes after the incident. Mike was nowhere to be seen at this point. Twelve volunteer rescue boats, the Coast Guard Lifeboat and Chopper were on the scene that evening."
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Brunosafari
Boulder climber
Redmond, OR
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Jul 18, 2007 - 12:43pm PT
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John (Largo)- Jstan is referring to a July 15 report from www.ukclimbing.com.. The report is adamant that he did not fall seventy feet, nor was he actually climbing at the time the wave hit him.
Bruce (check your e mail)
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cintune
climber
Penn's Woods
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Jul 18, 2007 - 12:49pm PT
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Kelp is the slippery stuff that grows below the low tide line, algae is the slippery stuff up higher on the rocks. Seems like a simple misstatement.
The Irish seas are profoundly, mythically treacherous.
Cuchulain stirred,
Stared on the horses of the sea, and heard
The cars of battle and his own name cried;
And fought with the invulnerable tide.
-W.B. Yeats, Cuchulain's Fight With the Sea.
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Rubi
Mountain climber
Vancouver Island, BC
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Jul 18, 2007 - 04:05pm PT
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Michael knew me as Rubi. I was one of his Outlaws.
A recent interview went like this:
"The Outlaws - who is this bunch?
The Outlaws are a group of misfit wild children who are the baddest motherf*#kers on the planet that do what they want, when they want, and always back each other up regardless of the situation. We’re about living life to the fullest with the understanding that when we slide into our graves, it’ll be as used up husks laughing that it was a helluva ride."
For as sad as I am about the passing of my dear friend Michael, I know how I have to continue on. I know that life must be lived to the fullest, that we all 'slide into our graves' at some point. My life will be ever effected by the time that I spent with Michael, and the other Outlaws (I will always have your backs). Michael's spirit and pride live on as strong as ever. I will share the spirit that you shared with me, I will connect with others the way you taught me was possible, and I will climb my pants off. Whatever I do - I will 'own it'.
It was a hell of a ride indeed.
Rest in Peace Brother
Please observe the following photos with respect for the man, myth, LEGEND, and his beautiful family.
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Anastasia
Trad climber
California
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Jul 18, 2007 - 07:45pm PT
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Dear Marci and Nikki,
I will never forget how you and Michael helped me through the trade show accident that changed my life. Michael was one of the first people I called knowing that if anyone could help the situation, he could. God, I never expected to be in this place where I need to reach out back to you.
I had the pleasure to know through Michael that you two are the most wonderful and inspirational women on this planet. He lived and breathed through you.
I believe this continues in an alternate existence where Michael is doing his own version of maximizing the experience.
I am sure you will continue to celebrate his life with every step you take until you meet again. As for myself, I will never stop being affected by his existence as my friend and mentor. I believe that I live a little brighter and a little larger for it.
Anastasia Frangos
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up2top
Big Wall climber
Phoenix, AZ
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Jul 18, 2007 - 08:06pm PT
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Rubi -- those are some outstanding shots. Amazing, really.
Ed
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nynz
climber
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Jul 18, 2007 - 10:08pm PT
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rubi,
thanks for sharing those
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Fluoride
Trad climber
Hollywood, CA
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Jul 18, 2007 - 11:47pm PT
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Rubi thanks for sharing those pictures. They really captured all that was Michael. Michael spoke of you Outlaws in his Climbing magazine blog.
Patrick, thanks for posting the article on his Irish memorial. It sounds like the perfect way to honor such a great soul, and the people of his ancestral homeland doing it in such a traditional way.
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Klimmer
Mountain climber
San Diego
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Jul 18, 2007 - 11:49pm PT
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Words escape me.
What an incredible human being. I wish peace and comfort for his family and friends.
So sad. He accomplished so much.
Glenn
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maldaly
Trad climber
Boulder, CO
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Jul 18, 2007 - 11:53pm PT
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Rubi, those are so special. I wish I had some photos of Michael like that.
Mal
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Fixdpin
Trad climber
Porterville,CA
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Jul 19, 2007 - 12:20am PT
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If Michael is gone it will be a huge loss! He is a wonderful guy, totally great heart and mind, and one of the most passionate people I have ever had the pleasure to talk to. What a bummer!
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immanti
climber
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Jul 19, 2007 - 12:31am PT
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It’s hard to write this, since I still cling to the hope that he’ll show up sometime soon, with an incredible tale of how he was picked up by a Russian submarine, rescued by a whale or something. People saw Elvis after he died, yet some don’t believe it to this day. Maybe we should expect future reports of some unknown, naked climber seen soloing somewhere in Patagonia. For now I’ll say I feel lucky to have known you, worked and played with you for a while and, until we meet again, I’ll raise a pint for you and try to play, work, love and live just a little harder. Thank you Michael.
Dario
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Grant Horner
Trad climber
Castaic, CA
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Jul 19, 2007 - 01:22am PT
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I was at La Casitas restaurant in Idyllwild last Saturday night with Bob Yoho & Chris Gonzales -- we were at Tahquitz all day training for a NIAD run this Friday -- and Bob and Janey Passiniri came in and sat with us. Janey, who is very close to the family, sat next to me and a few minutes later got a phone call from Mike's wife, who was flying to Ireland. At that point all they knew was that a wave came in, pulled him out, and he had not been seen since. I sail in the ocean quite a bit in Southern California, and I can tell you it does not take long to become very weak in the open sea if you end up in the wet -- even in our mild climate. Very sad...
I met Mike one time in the main gully at the Needles -- he was soloing of course -- and I found him to be very friendly and down to earth...
--gh
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Mighty Hiker
Social climber
Vancouver, B.C.
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Jul 19, 2007 - 02:02am PT
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Thanks to everyone for the poignant and evocative posts and photos.
Anders
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jhog
climber
south lake tahoe
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Jul 19, 2007 - 03:25am PT
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According to a local news report he didn't fall into the ocean, he was standing at the base of a climb when he was struck by a rogue wave and washed out to sea. Have a good next life brother.
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-
Boulder climber
Ireland
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Jul 19, 2007 - 07:09am PT
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I have added a few photos of Michael climbing in Bullock Harbour, Dublin to http://www.theshortspan.com
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Charles Perry
Big Wall climber
Fort Collins CO
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Jul 19, 2007 - 09:53am PT
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Over thirty years of climbing I have never heard of a climber who drowned climbing. It truely is a sad day.
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Patrick Sawyer
climber
Originally California now Ireland
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Jul 19, 2007 - 09:55am PT
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Hey David, I've bouldered at Bullock, not a lot there but fun nevertheless.
Do you use the wall at Westwood (Clontarf or Sandymount)?
I missed that Reardon presentation but I know several guys who went and said it was entertaining.
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-
Boulder climber
Ireland
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Jul 19, 2007 - 10:35am PT
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Patrick I like Bullock, it has atmosphere. Have been exploring more there especially looking at stuff above the water. I sometimes climb in UCD in the winter.
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Wild Bill
climber
Ca
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Jul 19, 2007 - 01:30pm PT
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I too keep holding out hope. I mean, how long was Jonah in the belly of that whale? Perhaps my denial helps cope with the bitter irony of his having been slapped by the sea, after everything else.
Sending peace to Michael's family and loved ones (and all those who loved him back).
Bill
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bachar
Trad climber
Mammoth Lakes, CA
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Jul 19, 2007 - 01:36pm PT
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It's hard to write this or anything these days. I've been hoping the whole time he would show up somewhere crazy with some amazing story - he still might do so. His spirit is so big it can never die anyway - he'll be with us forever, even after we are all gone.
Marci and Nikki, my thoughts and spirit are with you and always will be. Michael has touched and gifted you and all of us in ways we are yet to understand. Peace be with you.
Michael, I know you can hear us - keep keepin' like you always have brother....we miss you much and thanks for the lessons you gave us all. See you at the next crags...
Much love to all, John
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dll
climber
Oak Park, Ca.
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Jul 19, 2007 - 02:44pm PT
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Thanks John for putting things in perspective.
You're so right, Michael was such a vibrant life force that he will never be long away.
The memory of some fade with time... but Michael ensured that that would never be the case with him. He was always be larger than life, and in the sharing of memories.. the retelling of stories... and the inevitable laughter that follows, he will continue to expand in our hearts and minds as time passes.
To Rubi, and anyone else out there with personal photos of Mike that Marci may not have, it would be a wonderful gesture to see that she has these pieces of him to add to her memories as well. Whether it be in digital format, or a photo, or even a scrapbook with your thoughts and memories, please see that she gets a copy of any meaningful Michael moments that she and Nikki may not have been a part of.
It was a "good" time at Boulderdash last night... brutal, but beautiful. Thanks to all who attended and shared.
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klk
Trad climber
cali
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Jul 19, 2007 - 02:56pm PT
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i think it would be better if we did a separate memorial thread or else edited the content of this one as most of us, and especially the family, probably won't want to have to go through those initial pages where we were just learning about the events. lots of nice words in this thread that the mods could relocate later. this has been a bad week for me-- i can't imagine what it's like for the family and i wish them the best.
last time i saw michael he found out we would be in europe at the same time that he was overseas and he tried to talk me into meeting up in ireland for sea-cliff climbing. we tried to talk him into the dolomites instead.
tx to rubi for the pix.
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Matt
Trad climber
the land where lois don't roam
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Jul 19, 2007 - 03:33pm PT
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earlier this morning i sent that poster an email, inviting him to show some respect and remove his post, but it now seems to me that his post is of no consequence and really it enhances michael, the legend of michael, that is.
what mike reardon was drawn to frightened other people, and they thought it ought to frighten him or his family. not everyone agreed with his choices, not everyone understood him, you could even say that he was often surrounded in controversey (would he have called it jealousy?). his skill and his passion challenged people, some people couldn't wrap their brain around it all.
i wonder how many miles of rock the guy climbed with his life on the line? probably more than many avid climbers will climb while roped up in their lifetimes- wow, just the thought of it is almost hard for me to accept.
somehow i am comforted by the idea that he did not fall from a climb. pretty ironic in fact that he did not, considering the relative riskiness of his favorite passtime. kinda reminds me of when bachar flipped his rig, it's just so easy to forget how human these guys are.
what if there is a heaven, can you possibly imagine how sweet the splitters are up there?
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Anastasia
Trad climber
California
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Jul 19, 2007 - 07:38pm PT
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I am with Marci for I don't believe he is gone. I think he is just detained upon a fishing boat with some good Irish whiskey. Plus he must have found a willing ear for his ramblings, for he never walks away from a good audience.
AF
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RW
Boulder climber
SLC,UT
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Jul 19, 2007 - 10:37pm PT
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somehow i am comforted by the idea that he did not fall from a climb.
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RW
Boulder climber
SLC,UT
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Jul 19, 2007 - 10:40pm PT
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horse flats, mid 90's.
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RW
Boulder climber
SLC,UT
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Jul 19, 2007 - 10:56pm PT
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the first and last photos i had the good fortune to take of M.R.
it was always a blast.
you know if there is a heaven - boy, they got a hell of a band.
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dll
climber
Oak Park, Ca.
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Jul 20, 2007 - 02:38am PT
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RW - That second shot is undeniably awesome... but I truly love the first. It has a subtly intimate quality, that the B&W enhances perfectly. Mike and the rock blend together beautifully... very well done.
...and to Rubi - KTLA news, a local station here just ran a very nice piece on Michael using many of the pics you posted. My personal favorite is the kissing the rock shot... priceless.
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Jerry Dodrill
climber
Bodega, CA
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Jul 20, 2007 - 05:31pm PT
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Martha, all...
(Just tuned in again here. Been gone...)
I deleted my post upthread. Sorry if it was misconstrued. I didn't mean to imply that the photo was of the wave that took Michael. It seemed clear enough to me that it wasn't.
Damon's photo is an exceptional example of Michaels embrace of life, his visceral and tactile connection to nature. While it is clear that this photo is not of the wave that claimed him, it is chillingly prophetic of a tragedy neither of them could have forseen or imagined. The photographer/climber relationship, partnership, collaboration, is a complex one emotionally. I wish much peace to Damon. This must be a difficult time for him and all off Mike's friends and family. Wishing them the best...
-JD
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Lee_J
Trad climber
Buena Vista, Colorado
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Jul 22, 2007 - 10:26pm PT
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I'm just back from a week in Toulumne. What a blow... Sorry but Iv'e not read the entire thread. Is there some fav donation in order? My heartfelt condolences to all his family and close friends.
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GazCork
Trad climber
Cork
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Jul 23, 2007 - 09:11am PT
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Hi all,
I never met michael, though some of my friends have met and climbed with him. I have been following this thread since i heard of michaels tragic accident so I thought you would all like to know that the search for his remains continues. I spent the weekend on Valentia Island, the search team included, Irish Coastguard members from both Valentia and Ballycotton shoreside and in ribs, a search and rescue dog team from www.sardaireland.com (Catherine, a rock climber herself and her dog Daisy) volunteer climbers (including myself), the Kerry sub aqua club divers and a helicopter unit. Unfortunately we were not successful despite a thorough search of the Valentia coastline. The search will now be scaled back though there may possibly be another sweep on Friday week depending on weather and resources.***
My thoughts are with Michaels family and friends.
GazClimbs
*** Please note this assesment of the status of the search is not an official line. It is merely the opinion of the coastguard members on duty at the weekend
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cliffhanger
Trad climber
California
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Jul 23, 2007 - 01:10pm PT
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Tragic and sad to hear.
My brother almost met a similar fate. Playing in large waves in his kayak off of cliffs on the California coast he was overturned by a bigger series of waves, repeatedly rolling him, until he was forced to bail and swim for it. Even though a top competitive swimmer (HS swim team) he had to swim his greatest race ever, swimming directly away from the cliff, just to keep from being bashed to death against the rocks. After 20 minutes, greatly tiring and very cold (no wet suit) it seemed like certain doom as the waves carried him closer to the rocks. Then a local surfer managed to convey to him the need to swim south, with the current. Doing so he made his way down the coast to a bay and safety.
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Bruce Morris
Social climber
Belmont, California
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Jul 30, 2007 - 04:06pm PT
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Sounds like an appropriate end for a Celtic superhero: Like Cuchulain of the Red Branch fighting the waves in the ancient Irish saga.
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ß Î Ø T Ç H
Boulder climber
pads are for girls
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Feb 19, 2009 - 03:43am PT
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( Borrowed from ROCK-CLIMBING-FOR-LIFE dot com ) *
Michael Reardon was recognized as one of the leading free soloist in the world .
Reardon had free-soloed thousands of rock climbs up to the grade of 5.13b .
National Geographic awarded him Adventurer of the Year for his lone ascent of Romantic Warrior , a 1000 foot route in the Needles .
He was renowned for his ability to free solo a massive number of difficult routes in a day , once undertaking 280 routes at the cliffs (and boulders) of Joshua Tree .
He was not the only climber that loved soloing . The list includes such famous practitioners as Henry Barber , Peter Croft , John Bachar and the Mancunian émigré Derek Hersey .
Although Reardon pursued much of his climbing in the United States , he loved to climb internationally . Especially Ireland , the home of his paternal great-grandfather where he would make 250 onsight solos including more than 40 ascents up to 5.12a .
On july 13th Reardon was swept out to sea by an unexpected wave .
* my edit .
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Anastasia
climber
Not here
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Feb 19, 2009 - 03:46am PT
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I miss him.
AF
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neebee
Social climber
calif/texas
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Feb 19, 2009 - 05:27am PT
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hey there.. say, thank you so very much for the bump... i remember how very sad we all were... and many folks, like me, did not even know him...
it was a very very sad time... and he was so happy with his trip, too... :(
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neebee
Social climber
calif/texas
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Feb 19, 2009 - 05:29am PT
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hey there... say now... will try to look at the brighter side from all this... as we all do pass-on:
he left a wonderful rememberance of his skills behind... by his friendships.. and by those wonderful pictures that you posted...
thanks for sharing, or folks like me, would never have known what he did, and skills should not be wasted, they teach others many things... :)
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mtwoodsonguide
Big Wall climber
San Diego
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Feb 19, 2009 - 01:22pm PT
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Klimmer if you read this that was way full of bad karma
I took your advise and got rid of it
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apogee
climber
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Feb 19, 2009 - 01:25pm PT
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Well done.
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Jello
Social climber
No Ut
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Feb 19, 2009 - 01:41pm PT
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Michael's spirit touched so many of us with his positive energy. My life is better for having (far too briefly) crossed paths with him.
-Jeff
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survival
Big Wall climber
A Token of My Extreme
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Feb 19, 2009 - 03:08pm PT
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MtWoodsonguide, good job on zapping that other thread.
Too many negative vibes is bad for the soul. Especially a place where Michael has many friends.
It isn't unheard of to question someones legacy, methods or whatever, but I guess it's normally further out from their passing.
Here's to any great climber, warts and all, like the rest of us.
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