Discussion Topic |
|
This thread has been locked |
| Messages 1 - 118 of total 118 in this topic |
can't say
Social climber
Pasadena CA
|
|
|
Topic Author's Original Post - Mar 14, 2006 - 09:47am PT
|
I just read over on Todd's site about Raliegh checking out of this life. RIP my friend.
Damn this is the 2nd time in the past year I have posted of a friends passing.
|
|
Melissa
Gym climber
berkeley, ca
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 11:09am PT
|
Do you have any more information?
|
|
maculated
Trad climber
San Luis Obispo, CA
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 11:12am PT
|
I had a lot of fun with him Summer of 2002. This is really sad to hear.
|
|
can't say
Social climber
Pasadena CA
|
|
|
Topic Author's Reply - Mar 14, 2006 - 11:17am PT
|
Melissa, unfortunately I don't have any details on his death and only forwarded what I read over on Todd's site.
|
|
Largo
Sport climber
Venice, Ca
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 11:21am PT
|
Huh? Collins? How the hell did that happen? The guy was only 45 years old. What's Todd's site address?
That totally blows . . .
JL
|
|
bvb
Social climber
flagstaff arizona
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 11:29am PT
|
goddammit.
|
|
Loomis
climber
Praha ne, ti kokot!
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 11:36am PT
|
Received this in an e-mail yesterday...
Here is a copy of quick note passed to me from Marty Lewis.
Sad!!!! Prayers for family and friends....
Chief
Begin forwarded message:
> From: xxxx@minortriad.com (Tom xxx)
> Date: March 13, 2006 5:58:43 PM PST
> To: smlewis@xxxx.com
> Cc: xxxx@minortriad.com
> Subject: Raleigh
>
> Marty,
>
> Raleigh Collins committed suicide. He jumped off
> Sports Challenge Rock in the Real Hidden Valley
> in Joshua Tree, probably last night.
>
> Tom
|
|
addiroid
Big Wall climber
Long Beach, CA
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 12:11pm PT
|
Man, that really sucks. I had the priviledge of knowing him for about 5 years now. First at Todd's house, then just random encounters since then. He was a very nice guy but I did get that "troubled soul" vibe someone mentioned on Todd's site. Either way, I am very sad to see such a fun and entertaining person choose that means of exit.
Our last encounter happened at Mobile Gas outside TM:
Me: "Hey Raleigh, you got any beta on the SW Face of Conness? We are looking to go do that in a couple of days and don't know anyone who's done it."
Raleigh: "WHAT?!?! Do you want me to jerk you off? Conness is a fvcking sport route man!!!"
Fortunately he was right. We brought a couple of cams just in case though :)
Troubled soul or not, I always looked up to him, and enjoyed the few times we talked.
You'll be missed dude.
|
|
looking sketchy there...
Social climber
Latitute 33
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 12:34pm PT
|
Very sorry to hear this. May his spirit find peace.
|
|
happiegrrrl
Trad climber
New York, NY
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 12:46pm PT
|
I only met him once, on my last trip, when a friend of his invite me over for dinner, and Raleigh was there. He showed a video footage he'd done of this event he was promoting(I may be wrong as to who did what - I think he produced the video?), and he really seemed very proud of the thing. The event was way exciting too - it was like some sort of relay adventure race that included climbing, slacklining, some other events, and ended with hanggliding(?). Seemed like a really cool thing.
He provided great dinner conversation and told a story about a (rather large)5-year gear cache getting found out by a seasonal ranger, and that they had given everything back.
I had mentioned that I was going to hike to Queen Mountain the next day, and he told me to head for the Frontier Wall, instead of the Cirque of the Climbables, unless I wanted some 4th class sketchy terrain. I was (reeeeally)grateful for that advise and took it, and had an incredible day in a pristine area of the park.
I am sorry for all of those who are his friends, and the sadness you must now be feeling. Particularly that friend who hosted me at his house, where I met Raleigh.
|
|
Ksolem
Trad climber
LA, Ca
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 01:44pm PT
|
Anyone remember back in the day when Raliegh's nickname was "Ten Sport?"
Or how about when he used to buzz Hidden Valley Campground in that single engine plane?
A sad day.
RIP.
|
|
guyman
Trad climber
Moorpark, CA.
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 02:00pm PT
|
This sucks. RIP. My you keep flying high.
|
|
PMS
climber
Woodland Park, CO
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 02:32pm PT
|
Strong climber, good pilot.
Thanks for the plane rides over JT, will miss ya............
|
|
Klimmer
Mountain climber
San Diego
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 02:34pm PT
|
I didn't personally know Raliegh, but certainly knew the name and heard about some of his exploits . . .
Here he is buzzing a climber . . .
http://www.srobertsphoto.com/adventuregallerypages/planeandclimber.htm
It makes me really sad to hear about anyone taking their own life. We can't know the deep pain and depression at that very moment. They are not in their right mind. It always reopens fresh wounds in my heart. I've had to endure the heart-ache and pain of suicide in my immediate family. It never gets easier.
Just remember, no matter how bad things get, family and friends love you. Suicide is never the answer. You hurt the ones you love the most. And some how we are left to try to carry on without you.
RIP Raliegh Collins
|
|
Todd Gordon
Trad climber
Joshua Tree, Cal
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 03:00pm PT
|
Raliegh was a "fixture" at the Gordon Ranch. Sad ending to a troubled, talented soul. Good-bye, Raleigh. May you now find peace.
|
|
Jaybro
Social climber
The West
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 03:23pm PT
|
I just realized that I Can put a face and memories to this name. Really sorry to hear.
|
|
rlf
Trad climber
Josh, CA
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 03:44pm PT
|
First off, this is going to be a tad long. It's a bit of good, bad, and personal.
I may well be one of the few who really saw both the best sides and the darkest sides of Raleigh.
When I first moved to Josh over 6 years ago I did so for a number of reasons. Certainly for the climbing, but also to sever ties with my daemons/friends from L.A. (and a very dark and stormy past).
I didn't know anyone. The folks at the Gordon ranch wouldn't give me the time of day. I wasn't "one of them", although I wanted to be. Ironically, some of these very same folks are now some of the dearest closest friends I have ever had.
I first met Raleigh at Barker Damn. He instantly gave me his number and told me to call him to go climbing. He became one of my best friends. We climbed together, drank together, hung out, hiked and explored. He taught me many things about the outdoors and inspired me to push myself onwards and upwards. At a very rough time in my life, Raleigh came through when nobody else would.
With that said, I also got to know the darker side of Raleigh, a side I did not like. I started to witness behavior and learn things about his past (and his opinions) that I found to be very unsettling. There is no point in elaborating on these issues. It’s done.
Over the last couple of years I have had to distance myself from him. There are many reasons for this. Again, there is no point in elaborating on the subject.
I have unfortunately been the recipient of many suicides over the last 20 plus years, including my father putting a 44 to his head and pulling the trigger. Normally I was either on one side of the fence or the other. “Oh my god, he did it, how sad”, or “Good riddance”.
Raleigh’s decision has left me in a very strange place. He was a person I both loved and despised. I am having a very difficult time eulogizing him in either a positive or negative light.
I went over to the “scene of the crime” this morning and wept like a beaten child for him. He was truly an amazing person who was also very deeply troubled. I hope he finds the peace and tranquility he has been searching for over the years.
In closing I must say: Raleigh, you were one of the brightest and darkest people I have ever met. There will always be a spot in my heart for you.
Robert Fonda
Joshua Tree California
|
|
bvb
Social climber
flagstaff arizona
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 04:08pm PT
|
i will prefer to remember raliegh from better times. if i recall the story correctly, back in the day (77 or 78?), a couple of the original "scumbags" took raliegh climbing at suicide. mind you, this is his first time climbing. first time in a harness. first time on a rope. you get the picture.
sooo.....neil kunomi leads the first pitch of hesitation, hands raliegh the rack, and sends him up the 5.10 second pitch. with an absolute MAXIMUM of drama, our boy shakes and quakes and moans and slips and skids his way up the pitch. kid had some spunk, is all i gotta say about that.
i don't know what sort of demons chased raliegh into the next plane, but i do know as we age life gets the best of some of us, and noone is qualified to sit in judgement. like i say, the picture i have in my head, and the one that will stay there, will be the pepetually stoked, ultra-psyched, youthful madman with the bewildered smile who recieved the most proud crash course in climbing you're ever gonna hear about.
|
|
Ksolem
Trad climber
LA, Ca
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 04:21pm PT
|
That is a great story. Thanks.
Anyone remember when he decided to launch his hang glider from a small outcropping on a steep hillside in Josh?
|
|
rlf
Trad climber
Josh, CA
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 04:30pm PT
|
Not sure which one you are talking about, but I do remember that we went up to Keyes View and did some "vegetation modifications" so he could launch. I recall asking him "is this going to get us into trouble?". His response, "Not if you don't tell anyonone".
The result: Hack hack, saw saw, trundle trundle....
|
|
Russ Walling
Social climber
Same place as you, man...... (WB)
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 04:40pm PT
|
WOW! He was one of the last great wild men.... adios for now Raleigh. (R.I.P.)
He gave me a bunch of pics a while back that I'll post up.... good stuff of his wild times... standard fare for him, a bit of rodeo in costa Rica, some stunt plane stuff in Canyonlands, and leading some hard stuff here at home.
|
|
rlf
Trad climber
Josh, CA
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 04:41pm PT
|
"i will prefer to remeber raliegh from better times."
Probably the voice of reason, experiance, and age. None of which I posses.
|
|
Jaybro
Social climber
The West
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 04:50pm PT
|
Didn't he do something on TV (or plan to) that involved; skydiving, climbing, bicycling, kayaking and god knows what else?
That's Incredible™, maybe?
|
|
rlf
Trad climber
Josh, CA
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 04:53pm PT
|
"That's Incredible™, maybe? "
Nope, I have a video tape of when he did that. It was out of a San Diego news station I believe, but it covered a chunk of SoCal. It was very impressive to say the least.
|
|
Jaybro
Social climber
The West
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 04:56pm PT
|
An autonomous project, like an evening magazine kinda deal? still wild. He told me about it but I never saw it
|
|
WBraun
climber
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 05:00pm PT
|
Anybody have a picture/photo of Raliegh?
|
|
healyje
Trad climber
Portland, Oregon
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 05:09pm PT
|
I didn't know Raleigh, but had a climbing partner depart in the same manner long ago. All in all I'd hate to think of climbing "groomed" of all it's madmen and madwomen, so here's to another one that's taken flight...
|
|
Russ Walling
Social climber
Same place as you, man...... (WB)
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 05:21pm PT
|
Here are some of those pics he sent me.... the wheelchair one is from a snake bite in I think Costa Rica... very gruesome!!!!! saw the pics and heard the story!
When I was working for Largo RC pitched a TV show to us and sent film too I believe... something like Ultimate Sportsman Challenge type thing. He did something like 12 extreme sports in a day.. hanggliding, motocross, climbing, base, parachute, wind surf, mountian biking, gator wrestling, snowboarding/skiing... all kinds of stuff and there was Raleigh doing them all... and well.
|
|
WBraun
climber
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 05:33pm PT
|
Holy Molly thanks Russ
I thought that was the Rollo that I knew. He was one crazy dude as I remember.
Once there flew a huge jet cargo plane, a DC something number, over the Valley, very low and going up Tenaya canyon. It came over the park radio that something had been thrown out of it. Back country ranger on Half Dome saw it. A chute deployed and said object was headed into Tenaya canyon.
I see Rollo a few hours later that evening (he hasn't been around at all before that) and made the claim that he sky dived out of that plane.
What demons possessed him to off himself?
Yes he was a character, so sorry he did this and ..........
|
|
Fluoride
Trad climber
on a rock or mountain out west
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 07:21pm PT
|
Wow. I don't know what to say.
I met Raleigh at the base of Clean and Jerk Halloween weekend of '03 (ironic to think now that rock turned out to be the site of his demise). Totally friendly, ballsy, outgoing. I know there was a darker side and other issues. Sorry to hear the demons got the better of him.
|
|
James
Social climber
My Subconcious
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 09:18pm PT
|
Condolences to his friends and family. I met Raleigh a few times over the years. I remember hanging with him one morning in Joshua Tree. We ran around the campground together. He'll be missed.
|
|
mike
climber
tahoe city, ca.
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 09:21pm PT
|
Bummer. I met him at a WFR course in Bishop 6 or 7 years ago. We went to ORG for our day off. Beforehand, he was like "Yeah man, no worries, I got tons of rope and gear!" We got there and he hands me this nasty ass rope, core shots everywhere. I said "Thanks anyways Raliegh, but I'm gonna use my own rope." I'll never forget the pics he showed me of his trip to Thailand!
R.I.P. Raliegh
|
|
rlf
Trad climber
Josh, CA
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 09:34pm PT
|
"I met Raleigh at the base of Clean and Jerk Halloween weekend of '03 (ironic to think now that rock turned out to be the site of his demise)."
Yup, Raleigh and I spent many a day doing "laps" at both Clean And Jerk and Leave it to Beaver. I should clarify, he did laps, I gropped, swore, and struggled my way up Clean And Jerk. We had many a good time and laugh together. I'm really sorry he felt he needed to do this.
Robert
|
|
kevin Fosburg
Sport climber
park city,ut
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 10:13pm PT
|
Sad news. Raleigh was a great guy. Lots of charm and enthusiasm for whatever was at hand.
|
|
dwell
climber
Pollock Pines
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 10:31pm PT
|
RIP Raliegh.
You exuded kindness, something I watch for in people.
Although i'd just bump into you here and there, it occured for over a decade, forming a strong image. I always thought we had much in common. Shed a tear boys and girls. A good soul is lost.
|
|
Ammon
Big Wall climber
El Cap
|
|
|
Mar 14, 2006 - 11:00pm PT
|
This is very sad news. RIP, Raliegh. We will miss you.
An unofficial memorial will be happening at Keith Wentz and Brian McCray's house on Saturday the 25th. This is the weekend of the RRR, all is invited.
|
|
Trixie23
Trad climber
J-Tree, California
|
|
|
Mar 15, 2006 - 02:51am PT
|
Ahhh Raliegh, I feel almost like I have no right to talk about him because others knew him so much better than I. My boyfriend for one was one of his climbing partners and shared one particular near death experience with Raliegh in Yosemite. I do feel though that in rememberance of such a vibrant person I should say that Raliegh always seemed to me to be a person who could make you feel pretty damn good about yourself--he was always quick with a compliment, a radiant smile, a hug--sometimes inappropriate ones too, but that just made him Raliegh Collins. I really wondered today what he must have been thinking about in those last moments alone on top of that rock, looking out over the place where he spent so much time. I know a lot of people here went through the "what if I had just..." thoughts in their heads.
I for one wish I had just said one more nice thing to him the last time I saw him, but then, nobody ever knows when that time will be, so this is that time for me....Raliegh, you had a great electricity about you--kept us all on our toes, you were a truly unique individual and you probably lived more every day than most will in a lifetime. Have a great journey to a happier place.
|
|
bachar
Trad climber
Mammoth Lakes, CA
|
|
|
Mar 15, 2006 - 10:16am PT
|
Good man. Many good times. peace bro.
|
|
Levy
Big Wall climber
So Calif
|
|
|
Mar 15, 2006 - 10:49am PT
|
Raleigh was one of the most fun & enthusiastic climbing partners I've known. He always had a warm smile and a thirst for wild adventure. I vividly remember going flying with him & my GF Sheri in J Tree. He flew lower than some of the domes out in the Wonderland, we buzzed the Atom Smasher boulders, Queen Mt and spotted some crags near the 29 Palms entrance station. After we landed, we headed over to these new crags & put up 2 new routes that day. So sad to think I'll never see that ol' Jeep of his anymore. I'll miss him greatly
Levy
|
|
Shano
Social climber
Pacific Beach, CA
|
|
|
Mar 15, 2006 - 11:57am PT
|
just got word of the sad news. Some fun times with old RC. I thought you'd purged the old demons but apparently some just wouldn't leave you alone. You redefined adventure for me.
RIP Raleigh-wood - gonna miss you bro
-s
|
|
Largo
Sport climber
Venice, Ca
|
|
|
Mar 15, 2006 - 12:40pm PT
|
It took me many years to realize that the very qualities that make life catch fire at 20 can kill you at 45. Getting older is a job of slowly reeling yourself in and if you don't you're simply hosed. No point in judging those you never did so but it's a crying shame they didn't.
RC's enthusiasm was remarkable and infectious and I'm glad I knew him--but damn, dude! There was another way to go about things . . .
I'm pissed.
JL
|
|
Heyzeus
climber
Hollywood,Ca
|
|
|
Mar 15, 2006 - 04:51pm PT
|
Hadn't seen him in a while and really only knew him casually, but damm I'm bummed.I always looked forward to seeing him. I really enjoyed his being. And now he's not here.So the world feels a little less. A little lacking.
There was a cool photo of him a while back on the aguille de josh dressed in a Santa outfit, and now that I think about it I guess that was appropriate. He had a Santa quality.
I'm glad I have a some good memories of him. I hope he's free of his pain.
David
|
|
Ouch!
climber
|
|
|
Mar 15, 2006 - 05:02pm PT
|
"Getting older is a job of slowly reeling yourself in and if you don't you're simply hosed"
Well said.
|
|
WBraun
climber
|
|
|
Mar 15, 2006 - 05:14pm PT
|
I must be hosed .....
|
|
de eee
Mountain climber
Tustin
|
|
|
Mar 15, 2006 - 05:24pm PT
|
I climbed with Raleigh on and off for about 20 years and always had a great time. I am so sad to hear of his passing. Never caught a glimpse of his "darker side." Although, I never heard the full story of the day of the FA of "Puppet Boy," the short version was pretty funny.
Always wanted to go flying with him, maybe later.
|
|
Jaybro
Social climber
The West
|
|
|
Mar 15, 2006 - 05:27pm PT
|
Is Beckey unreel, or hosed?
|
|
Ouch!
climber
|
|
|
Mar 15, 2006 - 05:30pm PT
|
"I must be hosed"
Nah! You just ain't old.
|
|
Melissa
Gym climber
berkeley, ca
|
|
|
Mar 15, 2006 - 05:45pm PT
|
Raleigh stayed at the house where I was renting one weekend when he and his climbing partner had a very near death experience and then anticipated and then watched another man get killed in a helicopter rescue that went awry. My own climbing plans had fallen through for the weekend, so I speant a good part of the weekend hanging out with Raleigh. He was very troubled at the time, as one might expect in the context of his horrible weekend. It's too bad that his darker side is the only one that I got to see, and I'm also sorry that he wasn't able to unload some of his life's collected troubles along the way.
I'm not usually a fan of the "at least he died doing what he loved" sentiment, as most of us fully intend to live out the day when we go climbing or doing whatever. Although I can't imagine that Raleigh was acting from a place of love the other night, part of me also thinks that given his love of BASE jumping, if he simply couldn't bare to remain earth-bound any longer, he would make his exit the best way that he could. RIP.
|
|
Ammon
Big Wall climber
El Cap
|
|
|
Mar 15, 2006 - 06:01pm PT
|
Yeah, there I was sitting at the Deli resting up for the next day’s adventure. Both Raliegh and Dave asked me to go climbing with them but I had other plans.
They didn't know each other but I suggested they go climbing together. I testified for each other being solid and experienced climbers.
A few days later they told me about their near death experience with the widest eyes I've ever seen. I was just glad they were both ok, I would have felt very guilty if my innocent suggestion would have turned disastrous.
I went through many emotions when I found out about this. Including JL's "I'm pissed" feeling. I just can't believe that life could be so bad that it would come down to this. I wonder if things would have been different if he knew how many people were actually in his corner and would have helped any way they could have.
|
|
slobmonster
Trad climber
berkeley, ca
|
|
|
Mar 15, 2006 - 07:25pm PT
|
Hmm.
My last solo trip to Joshua tree immediately followed an intense, necrotic breakup in the middle of the San Rafael Swell, where I had met a girl for three days to discuss why and how she had been cheating on me for six months. Getting to Josh provided modest relief, I suppose, due to simple fact that there were people about, and most were friendly enough.
Raleigh fit this mold. I met him somewhere in the Hidden valley, lord knows where, and I got the sense that he tuned into my anger, my pain, and my depression, and before too much time had passed we were climbing some routes around "Baby Huey Packs Another Bongload" (or something). Of course he was somewhat spastic, and awkward within a veneer of confidence, but he was kind and encouraging exactly when I needed it most.
Several years later, embroiled in a sad breakup once again, I'm sitting at my desk instead of hitting the road to mourn; in many ways I am glad that I don't simply have the TIME to go sit in my van in the desert, cry my eyes out to no one and anyone, and climb with a twitchy malnourished anger. But I will be honest: Raleigh's suicide strikes a chord, quite harmonic to those rumblings in my own mind. It is scary, and I am frightened.
|
|
rlf
Trad climber
Josh, CA
|
|
|
Mar 15, 2006 - 07:39pm PT
|
My apologies for holding this back, but there were some very good reasons. Now that the dust has settled, I can elaborate a little more.
When I first heard the news I was standing on a ladder with my fingers stuck in an electrical box attempting to electrocute myself. A friend who is on SAR asked me if I knew Raleigh. I said yes, quite well. He then informed me that he had taken a "header" off of Sports Challenge Rock in Real Hidden Valley. At first I thought he had lost it on Leave It To Beaver, Raleighs all time favorite route. Then he told me it was a suicide.
Sometime late Sunday night Raleigh took the approach to the top armed with a headlamp and took a running jump off and cleared the base entirely landing in the upper apron. A long time friend of his from Josh was the one who found him the next morning.
When I heard this I went up to the park to speak with the Rangers since I knew I would have some information about him they might need. Hence my silence.
Raleigh left a definate mark on my life and I will never forget him. I hope he as at peace. I wrote the following to someone in an email regarding this issue. I believe it applies to us all:
Life is a valuable and fleeting occurrence we all share. I guess that for some of us, we lose sight of our value to ourselves and to others.
Robert
|
|
Klimmer
Mountain climber
San Diego
|
|
|
Mar 15, 2006 - 07:41pm PT
|
I would hope that everyone who knew Raliegh best and were closest to him are talking to one another and comforting one another. There is a very real need . . .
Like I said before . . .
http://www.supertopo.com/climbing/thread.html?topic_id=166349#msg166502
I say this because someone taking their own life can lead to someone else close-by taking their own life. My grandfather commited suicide when my mother was in her first years of college, then my mother commited suicide in '89 when I was in college, and within weeks her second husband took his own life. The range of emotions for survivors are very real: extreme sadness (depression), guilt, anger, finally forgiveness, and then just deep love and sadness in memory. It takes many years to go the path. I'm still on it.
Take suicide off the table. It should never be an option to consider. Make that pledge to your family and friends, no matter how bad it gets, your family and friends love you. Talk to each other.
There is just soo much to live and adventure for. Suicide is not an option.
|
|
scuffy b
climber
S Cruz
|
|
|
Mar 15, 2006 - 07:42pm PT
|
Ammon writes:
"I wonder if things would have been different if he knew how many people were actually in his corner and would have helped any way they could have"
When it gets bad it's really hard to believe that anyone could
be in your corner. We can be really good at blinding ourselves
to what should be obvious truths.
sm
|
|
Off White
climber
Tenino, WA
|
|
|
Mar 15, 2006 - 07:44pm PT
|
Sad bad thing, though I haven't seen him in decades. I wondered at the title if it was the same Rolly I knew many years ago. Those were my EB's he wore that first time on Hesitation. Huh, at Suicide Rock no less. Damn shame, and so many to mourn him.
|
|
bvb
Social climber
flagstaff arizona
|
|
|
Mar 15, 2006 - 07:51pm PT
|
yeah off, it's the same crazy buddy of neil and flower. i'm pretty sure neil took that pic of him upstream, at canon tajo.
2 thanksgiving's ago he hung around with the usual suspects at our campsite, and ate thanksgiving dinner with us. he really tuned into kyle and seemed to understand him, more so than people who've known kyle for years. kyle just sat with him and talked for hours, and raleigh spent hours over the week we were there teaching kyle to slackline.
he had a place inside him that could be extraordinarily kind and generous and giving.
i just don't understand this. i don't understand it.
|
|
Largo
Sport climber
Venice, Ca
|
|
|
Mar 15, 2006 - 08:25pm PT
|
There's only one thing to really understand here, and it's called addiction. Some of us are very prone to addiction (I am) and always have to take that into account. The only other option is insanity.
JL
|
|
flyingkiwi1
Trad climber
Seattle WA
|
|
|
Mar 15, 2006 - 09:33pm PT
|
Well, I think Todd Gordon has posted the definitive eulogy to Raleigh over on his site (http://joshuatreeclimb.com/forums/joshuatreeclimb/posts/29656.html);, and I've already paid my respects there, too.
But, in the face of what I perceive as criticism, I want to defend Raleigh's decision. My observation is that some people are given more stuff - especially energy, but other stuff, too - to manage than others. Of those, some are given or develop more effective tools to manage that stuff than others. But sometimes even those tools aren't enough, and they're left fighting for air. My observation is that sometimes people lose that fight. My guess is that Raleigh had won that fight many, many times in his life. This time he lost. I'm sad, but I'm not angry.
Ian
|
|
maculated
Trad climber
San Luis Obispo, CA
|
|
|
Mar 15, 2006 - 10:19pm PT
|
I am angry. As Slob and Largo have said, it's something I think a lot of us have to fight. I don't like to see people lose. Period.
|
|
jbastien
Trad climber
ca
|
|
|
Mar 16, 2006 - 12:23am PT
|
I am so bumbed that Raliegh is no longer with us. I had such a great time with him on so many occasions. I posted a slide show from a trip to Vegas that we took, only Raliegh could pull this one off.
http://justinbastien.com/vegas/
|
|
Jaybro
Social climber
The West
|
|
|
Mar 16, 2006 - 01:21am PT
|
THAT is the exuberant guy I knew.
|
|
Tango
Boulder climber
Pine Valley, CA
|
|
|
Mar 16, 2006 - 01:32am PT
|
Seeing the pictures of Raliegh on both of the sites got me. I can see that infectious smile and hear his distinct voice. I remembered going for a full moon ride (he did love a full moon) out of Lynn's Thing Valley Ranch. He on her Bay Peruvian Paso mare and me on her gaited mare Wildfire--and of course he wanted to ride Wildfire, but Lynn had said no--not an experienced enough horseman (as with everything else he was a natural). So out on the ride I let him switch just for a few minutes--he was ecstatic and of course that was when the Total Eclipse of the moon occurred. There was nothing that was not an adventure when you were with Raliegh!
|
|
bvb
Social climber
flagstaff arizona
|
|
|
Mar 16, 2006 - 01:59am PT
|
fukk it fukk it fukk it fukk it goddammit
|
|
Trixie23
Trad climber
J-Tree, California
|
|
|
Mar 16, 2006 - 02:08am PT
|
Oh my God...That slide show was fantastic!!!! Thanks for that, it's the only part of all of this that actually made me laugh out loud. Bravo.
|
|
Minerals
Social climber
The Deli
|
|
|
Mar 16, 2006 - 03:17am PT
|
Raleigh, where did you go? Will we ever know?
I never knew Raleigh very well. We met in the Valley three or four years ago and had some really fun times at the Deli. He was the guy with the huge smile on his face, the guy that was having the most fun. He was full of so much energy. So much fun. So much energy. Where did it all go? Sadness.
Best wishes and good energy to all of his family and friends.
Emotion No. 13...
May his wings carry him to a better place.
|
|
whattimeisit
climber
Moab
|
|
|
Mar 16, 2006 - 05:09am PT
|
You were a great insperation to me. I'll miss you bro.
|
|
can't say
Social climber
Pasadena CA
|
|
|
Topic Author's Reply - Mar 16, 2006 - 11:20am PT
|
Found these lyrics. Don't know if it means anything really, but it kinda struck me in an eerie way.
FINN BROTHERS
Won't Give In
You call me up and I'll say a few words
But I'll try not to speak too long
Please to be kind and I'll try to explain
I'll probably get it all wrong
What does it mean when you promise someone
That no matter how hard or whatever may come
It means that I won't give in, won't give in, won't give in
'Cause everyone I love is here
Take me home. Take me home
Once in a while I return to the fold
With people I call my own
Even if time is just a flicker of light
And we all have to die alone
What does it mean when you belong to someone
When you're born with a name, when you carry it on
It means that I won't give in, won't give in, won't give in
'Cause everyone I love is here
All at once, and I'll show you how to get here
Come on now, come on now, can you feel it, I can see it in ya
Come on now, come on now, reveal it, turn around won't ya
The right time, the right place, right now, turn around
A chance is made, a chance is lost, I carry myself to the edge of the earth
It means that I won't give in, won't give in, won't give in
'Cause everyone I love is here
Say it once, just say it, and disappear
|
|
Heyzeus
climber
Hollywood,Ca
|
|
|
Mar 16, 2006 - 02:53pm PT
|
Justin,that was great!Thanks. That looked like a lot of fun. Made me laugh, but made me sad.
|
|
sr
climber
Bay Area, CA
|
|
|
Mar 16, 2006 - 03:06pm PT
|
Here's Raliegh at his camp back in the Wonderland. Peace.
|
|
sr
climber
Bay Area, CA
|
|
|
Mar 16, 2006 - 03:19pm PT
|
Raliegh always had some wild idea for a photo shoot he'd want to do. This one was probably the scariest. He was the pilot, and was flying into the sun. I seem to remember Karen Tracy (the climber) getting REALLY nervous because Raliegh was waiting so long before he banked away from the crag!
|
|
WBraun
climber
|
|
|
Mar 16, 2006 - 03:25pm PT
|
Great shot
To bad he didn't buzz by in vertical positon instead of banking away, that would have been a cool shot.
|
|
sr
climber
Bay Area, CA
|
|
|
Mar 16, 2006 - 03:45pm PT
|
Then there was the time he shows up in Josh with this Santa Claus suit. It's around 100 degrees, but he wants to get this shot. He's sweating like crazy and can't see his feet because of the costume, but that didn't stop him.
I'm pissed, and I'm going to miss you brother....
|
|
WBraun
climber
|
|
|
Mar 16, 2006 - 03:49pm PT
|
Hahaha That's Raliegh! Classic
|
|
MX-
Trad climber
Flagstaff, AZ
|
|
|
Mar 17, 2006 - 12:21pm PT
|
way to sad
malcolm
|
|
whattimeisit
climber
Moab
|
|
|
Mar 17, 2006 - 10:26pm PT
|
Raliegh knew how to slack. Peace bro
|
|
justcallme
Trad climber
san diego
|
|
|
Mar 21, 2006 - 02:09pm PT
|
Subject : Raleigh Collins' Wake - Pass Info on
Morning all
Just wanted to update you on the wake/a (one of many I'm sure) for Raleigh....
Rick Corbin called this am with the following info;
Lake Elsinore - Drop Zone - 18778435867 (for directions)
Per Someone at the DZ;
15 North; Dive and Drive exit; Right; 2 lights down; Left @ Mission Trails; Pass Albertsons; Right @ Corydon; Right @ Cereal Street; Drive to end
Per Map Quest; Exit Left Bundy Canyon; Right Mission Trails; Left Corydon; Right Cereal
Lake Elsinore
Drop Zone Area
April 1st - 12:00 p.m.
I am planning on leaving here around 9 a.m. If anyone would like to carpool from San Diego you can meet us at my casa (I have room for 3 more). We'll have time to stop for breakfast for sure. Call/email me if you want to carpool.
Ann
8585831651
longraven@hotmail.com
|
|
justcallme
Trad climber
san diego
|
|
|
Mar 25, 2006 - 04:43pm PT
|
Hi All;
DIRECTIONS UPDATE
If you plan on attending the Wake - I need to revise the original directions from my original post.
Kenny Niemi and Raleigh's family are coordinating the event at the Hang Glider Landing Zone.
From the 15 Hwy Northbound
Exit Central Ave go right (westbound)
Right on Collier
Left on Riverside Ave. (aka Hwy 74) (westbound)
Head toward Grand Ave.
A 911 call box will mark the driveway turnoff
Landmarks: You will see the Elsinore Market go to the large field located behind the market. There will be signs posted.
A big thanks to Kenny, Gina and the rest of Raleigh's family for coordinating this event in such difficult times.
|
|
Hootervillian
climber
the Hooterville World-Guardian
|
|
|
Mar 25, 2006 - 05:21pm PT
|
i met and spent a midweek day with a guy a few months ago (ed. it was actually the end of last season?). bouldered and gabbed at the happies all day then walked out and commenced the tailgate party. we drank a few beers and continued talk of hang-gliding, climbing and even shared a few riffs on the guitar. super-personable, it was as if we were friends forever. he had a very cool rig, yellow chevy luv with an eight-foot bed.
i sincerely hope i'm mistaken and my apologies if i am.
|
|
Dusty
Trad climber
up & down highway 99
|
|
|
Mar 25, 2006 - 08:07pm PT
|
I just met him in Patagonia and we shared a few good meals together in Rio Blanco about a month ago. He was showing two total non-climbers a good time in a harsh environment with total aplomb... his usual hospitable self. This is tragic news and very sad to hear. I hope he has found some peace.
|
|
WBraun
climber
|
|
|
Mar 25, 2006 - 08:17pm PT
|
It says: If one commits suicide you will remain in your subtle body ...........
As a Ghost!
|
|
Kevin Daniels
climber
|
|
|
Mar 25, 2006 - 10:02pm PT
|
i met Raliegh on a saturday morning at intersection rock. it was 1993 i think. it was my first day of guiding for a local company and this big guy was the first guide i met. his intro went like this " my name is Raliegh, if you take my job i will KILL you." he said it with a smile on his face. i grinned back and stated " do your job and you wont have to worry about a thing !" i liked him from the start.
he was the kind of friend you dont see very often but when you do the conversation has depth. he is like most of my close friends, born into the wrong century. what do guys like us do now adays, climb rocks, jump off things, drink, drugs. but think of Raliegh out front, charging forward on the back of a galloping horse , a battle cry blaring out of gritted teeth. he has a axe in his hand and is ready to change the world. in another century Raliegh would have been a warloard, barron or king. he was the kind of man you read about, a comic book super hero.
our last visit was spent bouldering, he showed me the Raliegh traverse. it is abour 300' long and involves 4 diffrent boulders at the Sads. you climb, downclimb, traverse and jump from one boulder to the next. we were 10 year olds again, laughing and playing. we talked about Yoga, life, climbing and his new truck. he seemed happy and solid.
well Raliegh thanks for the play time. keep your battle axe oiled and sharp because you will need it when i show up.
we have worlds to change
kevin daniels
|
|
Klimmer
Mountain climber
San Diego
|
|
My condolences to Raleigh’s friends and family. I wish I knew him. I’m sure we would have hit it off. I climb and fly paragliders. I would have loved sharing a thermal with him. Elsinore is a great flying location. He sounds like the kind of guy that loved to put a lot of wonderful different kinds of adventures together and roll them all into one. We share that same passion.
I hope his family and friends find peace and comfort among one another and know he was well loved. Loved ones are never gone if we never forget them.
Klimmer
|
|
twizzler
climber
new paltz, ny
|
|
He came over and sat with the fire in Hidden Valley a few nights in 03. I had met him the year before and we meshed.
We had some great jams, and he wrote a verse here. RC V2
Relief
music bem
words By BEM and RC
Chorus:C#-
"what i need here is a little Relief
from this everyday kind of way
the feelin im dealin with
hey man, why go change what ya say
and live your life such another way"
Em7,D#m7,Dm7,bm,c#m
BM V1:"Just because its rock, don't mean
its made of stone," (borrowed from porta potty at gunks)sure this life takes me hard
Just because im here
don't that im at home,
couldn't find any better place to start."
CH:""""""""""""""""repeat
RC V2: "No such thing as bad weather man,
Its all about clothes that you wear,
(just remember)
be pre pared for an-y-thing
cause the nature of things
is too big to care."
CH:repeat
Thanks man, thats your track. super beta from an alpha. Thanks for laying it out with me.
He was at the Gunks a few years ago.
He told me To Be or Not to Be was his favorite 70ft of rock anywhere. It was and is. No such thing as long as you're prepared.
|
|
BobbyC
Trad climber
CA
|
|
Just got back from the Wake for Raleigh Collins in Lake Elsinore and it was something Raleigh would have appreciated. Lots of his sky diving, hanggliding friends around to rememember him. Lots of good stories about the athlete, the wild character, and a long lists of epics... Both his sisters were there as well. A song had been written by a singer with lyrics about Raleigh and his love of the natural. One thing came through loud and clear: Lots of love and grief for Raleigh. And an Eagle soared overhead during the ceremony. It was a good send off for RC.
I realized something at the Wake and that is that Raleigh parents were both dead by the time he was 22. His Mom died when he was
a young teenager... and I realized that we were ALL Raleigh's extended family.
I did not say this eulogy at the WAKE: I thought it was too long and perhaps too critical but I wanted to post it instead.
Bob Carmichael
Raleigh Collins:
The Raleigh Collin’s old yellow, beater truck is parked in my backyard and Raleigh… “what the f*#k am I supposed to do with it? And Raleigh… why are you dead?” Sh#t man,. We had too many good times last fall for you to be dead. You were too full of life and ideas and plans and adventures. There has to be a mistake here and I do not understand.”
The truth is none of us understand the mystery or the pain or the confusion that Raleigh took with him up to the top of Sports Challenge Rock. Why sports challenge rock? That rock is too f*#king small for Raleigh to jump off.
I do know that Raleigh Collins was an alcoholic. He knew it and he admitted it. I intentionally didn’t know that side of him. To me he was also one of the most humane and loving people I’ve ever had the privilege to meet. There’s not a day that goes by that I don’t ask myself, how is it possible that he is no longer on the face of this earth?
I knew Raleigh mostly from this last summer and fall. I’d know him before and had liked his outgoing personality and ability to shine in most any environment, indoor or out. I’d also gotten a fast read on the fact that he drank and he drank hard. My father was an alcoholic and I told Raleigh I would not be around him unless he was sober. I busted his ass on it every time a hint of drinking came up. And I stayed away from him for years because of it.
This last summer Raleigh rolled into Bishop and Mammoth and he was clear eyed and sober. “BOB CARMICHAEL, how the HELL ARE YOU?” You know the booming voice he had. I often think he learned it from John Long somewhere in Camp 4, but it was good to hear from him. He just exuded a love of adventure and climbing and seeing all the natural sights. There was an art to the climbing and sky diving and BASE jumping of Raleigh Collins.
He took it all in. And he laughed a lot. He was determined to live a life of adventure and Sport. He was definitely upholding the tradition of vagabond, unconventional climbing CHARACTER, on the road, with his car packed with toys. I really admired his independence and thought of him in the direct lineage of the FUN HOG tradition. Raleigh Collins just plain added COLOR to life.
One of the first climbs we did when he got up to Mammoth was the Crystal Craig- with a scary thunder storm racing us to the summit. Raleigh climbed a lot better than me, but he let me swing leads up this climb and was generous and gracias about my slowness on the lead. He simply loved the heights and he was climbing really well all summer and fall.
He was starting to practice yoga and he was an absolute natural. He talked about the wonderful high and the bliss he got out of doing his asanas and riding his breath. He likened it to a great climb in it’s satisfaction. Raleigh had an Olympians physique and for a 47 year old he had remarkable, natural flexibility. No wonder he was such a great athlete. He was an advanced practitioner right off the bat. He had as much form as any of the LA Yoga gurus that I’ve seen. Raleigh had an idea about becoming a yoga instructor and I honestly believed him. He could have done it. Cause the fact of the matter is that Raleigh Collins could do just about anything he set his mind too. He was just amazingly adaptive and adept at everything he did.
So why is he dead? He FOUGHT the demon of addiction on a daily basis. Somehow it was Bigger than he. Was it his time to leave at 47 years old? Is it all preordained or was it just too much pain?
I do know that his spiritual Life was blooming when I knew him. He was learning about meditation. He was philosophical about passing into the energy of the universe. He was fully aware of how short and unpredictable life could be. He had many close calls. He knew how fragile things are. But he was certainly not afraid, I know that he felt death would be liberating and a continuing adventure. He never talked to me about suicide however.
He was learning about meditation. He was growing. So why is he dead?
He fell off the wagon in Bishop last fall. He tried his best to hide this from me. But I busted him on it. Told him I didn’t want him to guide my daughter down in Bariloche.
And he went down there and he never tried to contact her and I thank him for that because I know he was drinking.
Prior to going down to South America I called to say he had checked into a hospital because he was drinking himself to death. He called me and was crying when he explained just how close he’d come to death. But he came out of the hospital after two days feeling clear and eager to get on with life. He assured me he had it all under control. I told him he was kidding himself. But he left for Argentina and I didn’t hear from him and I knew that meant he was back on the booze.
He called me a couple of times from Joshu Tree before he died. Our communications were very abbreviated. I had NO idea he was in such a final spiral. I wish I could have helped him, like we all do. For reasons of fate, timing, and personal mysteries that none of us fully understand… Raleigh, the brave, courageous lead climber, BASE jumber and talented man could not escape from his Alcohol addiction. Sadly, I don’t think he had the sponsor or the support he needed at the end. I will always blame myself for not being more vigilant.
I know it was not the Raleigh Collins I knew on the rock that day. I’m convinced he was not of sound mind when he scrambled up the rock. I do think he was tired and beaten by his addiction and simply saw no way out but death. So Raleigh Collins, I’m going to miss you, some of the color has certainly been taken from my life. I think you’re blowing somewhere in the wind.
And I hope you are free.
|
|
ladd
Trad climber
land of fruits, nuts and flakes
|
|
Well I'm grieved to know that another of us has passed so tragically.
Raleigh Collins - rememberin the first time we met was at Rubidoux somewhere back in the 70's.. We weren't close friends, just the comraderie of same passions, casual aquaintance - the occasion just happenstance. It was a joy to watch Raleigh climb. You see, we had the same sort of body types. So, it was like looking in a mirror watching Raleigh climb - like a gymnast, powerful strokes held in check with balance and finesse. Really, most of the time, I just wanted to climb in solitude, just to get away from the challenges of an engineering career, and raising a family, but with Raleigh around, that was just improvable.
Remember another time climbing somewhere on the north wall of Tahquitz. We had just descended, and at the base from the usual early morning start, and hearing some novice climber's echo'ed voice too scared to move, and Raleigh's coaxing, goading the neophyte on, and then hearing "sh#t Raleigh, now look, my hand is bleeding all over the place... are you satisfied now!" ... We snickered, knowing that all was OK - that it wasn't Raleigh fault other'n trying to show somebody the joy of climbing with ropes and our way life..
Raleigh will live on through our memories of him. I hope that whatever demons tortured his soul is what died that fateful day, and that Raleigh's spirited life is now free to live on in eternity.
cheers
|
|
hollis
Trad climber
gunnison, co
|
|
I just found out about Raleigh and was really bummed to hear the news. He was a a fun climbing partner, one of those people you'll never forget.
I remember the first time I met him climbing at Clark's Canyon near June Lake. I had a day off from my summer job and got beta to these crags. I had a rope in my hand and some gear, but no partner. I really just intended to solo, but then I met Raleigh and he graciously offered me a belay. He was impressed and told his climbing partner, "wow, she can climb!" and was happy to demonstrate his new fiveten resole job on his Birkenstock. He free-soloed a .10c in those like nothing!
I again ran into him in Tulomne. We went climbing and he made the comment that I'd be hot if I lost 10 pounds. He could be a cocky SOB, but he always made me want to push myself and climb harder. He was always eager to share his climbing knowledge too. Over the years, I had several encounters with RC, always fun, always entertaining.
In retrospect, his criticisms were really reflections of his inner critic. Bro, why did you have to be so hard on yourself? Couldn't you see how much family you had? You were so loved and we won't forget you!
RIP RC! ~Holly
|
|
nature
climber
Flagstaff, AZ
|
|
On Wednesday of last week I went to Sports Challenge Rock with Bill Russel. Bill was a very good friend of Raliegh's. I knew Raliegh only from a few encounters at JTree. Bill made sure to get really sauced and then we shared a beer with Raliegh. After that Bill and I went over to Tumbling Rainbow and then Fistacuffs. Bill wasn't quite up for the leads and handed the sharp end to me. I had never been on either climb. Bill is just a bit bigger than me so I was happy to accept the sharp end. I took a nice whipper at the top. Bill and Raliegh did fistacuffs many many moons ago. It was a very appropriate tribute.
RIP buddy.
|
|
place
Sport climber
LA
|
|
We met Raleigh in El Chalten, Patagonia, Argentina about 2 months ago. My buddy and I ran into him at a boulder competition. Really cool guy. He taught us some climbing and shared beers and chased the ladies. He seemed troubled but we were shocked about his death. Im from California and looked forward to seeing him again, maybe learn some more climbing. Never a dull moment with Raliegh on the mountain. He was a good guy. We all have demons, its a shame whatever haunted him drove him that far.
Our first climbing teacher. Whether were hiking, climbing or just chilling, he comes to mind.
Thanks Raleigh for sharing climbing with us and yourself during that week. We wont forget you.
Love, Kyle & Raz "Guias de los Libres"
|
|
droro
Trad climber
israel
|
|
|
May 12, 2006 - 03:40am PT
|
i met rc in arco, italy alomst 2 years ago. he was very friendly the moment we met, and hung out with us at the campsite. every morning he got up to base jump of mount brenta, and was back eating breakfast as i woke.. in the beginning we thought he was some weirdo , he seemed to friendly for such an experienced climber he said he was, but not like showing off, he was very modest. i helped him with his mails, he didnt know how to access his email ! that was funny. at the end of the week, he helped us carry our packs to the bus, he was very polite even to us dirty unkept climbers. he also gave me his thermarest matress, he didnt want to carry back, i still use it , it has his initials on. one last thing, he found a pair of crotches on the top of mount brenta , and notified the italian police because he thought some handicapped person jumped off.
but nobody could stop him, im sure many here would have.
|
|
chez
Social climber
chicago ill
|
|
|
May 12, 2006 - 06:06am PT
|
Here's a good Raliegh story i heard 2nd hand, in the Valley years ago.
Walt and P were climbing a route, (1st ascent i think), on Half Dome.
Suddenly, while on lead, Walt hears a loud rockfall sound coming right at him.
All of the sudden there is a popping sound and it's none other than Raliegh depoying his chute after jumping off of the top of the Dome, and he goes on to say;
"Hey Walt, where do you think i should land?"
to which Walt replies;
"I'm in the middle of an A-5 pitch find your own *&^& landing"
That was a bit ago, and i might be a little off with the story.
Klaus do you remember the time?
Chez
|
|
Melissa
Gym climber
berkeley, ca
|
|
|
May 12, 2006 - 12:26pm PT
|
Because I'm sure Raleigh would have laughed too...This is one of the funniest typos I've ever seen:
"he found a pair of crotches on the top of mount brenta , and notified the italian police because he thought some handicapped person jumped off."
|
|
grantius
Trad climber
australia
|
|
|
May 15, 2006 - 08:48pm PT
|
I Just heard of this today...
I met Raleigh at Perris Valley Skydive Centre in 1998, with my mate from Australia who had met him a few years before. Immediatley we began to make plans for "SkyRock Boogie"...10 days of skydiving, climbing ,base jumping all this flying in a Cesna from Elsinore up the Sierras, stopping to climb and do skydives along the way... we buzzed the top of El Cap and Half Dome and flew on to Lake Tahoe... Quite possibly the most action packed 10 days I have ever had!
Raleigh came to Australia a few years later, he had been in Thailand. He arrived with tequila and wanting to party, he showed us his foot...he had picked up a nasty infection, we took him straight to hospital where he spent the next 3 or 4 weeks.. he gave the nurses hell!! (but he got to keep his foot!).
Frederick von Frederick aka (Raleigh Collins) sorry you are gone mate,
Sky Rock Boogie lives on. Grant.
|
|
alby
Social climber
NSW
|
|
|
May 22, 2006 - 07:59am PT
|
Raleigh... your eagle claw spirit will be with me forever.
I met raleigh in 92 at Eloy Az, I was at my first skydiving world meet and he was doing what he has always done, partying jumping and climbing and the rest. He was hiring a c150 and flying out in the desert to go climb sh#t... on his own.
He turned up to my place in sydney while I was in malaysia working, fresh from thailand with a gangrenous foot. My girlfriend checked him into hospital (see Russ Walling photo) under a false name cause his foot was about to drop off, he just wanted to hang about and see if it got batter. We shared some crazy times in Oz on the beach and in the mountains.
Later I caught up with him at Perris where we got the idea of the "sky rock boogie". We flew from Elsinore over the sierras and yosemite to Davis for some "freeflappin'" (raleigh freefly style) jumps then to Auburn to jump the bridge, straight up to Tahoe on a full moon (he wasn't much good at night nav) for a week of fun, night jumps over the lake and even some climbing. On the return we cased half dome for "the only way to get away with it". We took off from Mariposa strip at 2am and top landed the dome, repacked and based it. That was the most intense I'd ever seen him, when I thanked him for the ride before getting out and he kept saying....LAND ON TOP. A memorable ten sport week that would not end, and when it did we were still sporting massive grins in the middle of dodge (LA) in the "grey whale" heading for the airport.
Thats how I will remember him, with his eagle claw handshake. True air trash.
Thanks brother.
|
|
Monkey Cat
Sport climber
San Mateo,CA
|
|
Philip (my boyfriend) and I met Raliegh Collins in 2003 after we summited Mt. Whitney. We were staying in a motel for a much needed shower and bedrest when Philip ran into Raliegh in the lobby. RC asked if Philip wanted to go out to the Alabama hills for some climbing since his clients bailed on him. Philip ran up to the room while I was still in the shower and said "Hey I met this cool guy in the lobby, he wants to know if we want to climb with him". I'm like "Hey, do you know anything about this guy?". Later we find out he's vry well known in the area and is a top class climber.
So, we head out to the Alabama's, following (barely) Raleigh in his old yellow beat up Chevy Luv. We drove around for a while, stopping to say hello to some of RC's friends on the rocks on the way to Capricorn (one of his favorites). RC set up a top rope for Philip and I since we only had about a summer and a half of climbing experience. I found out that RC named the climb Capricorn because that was his sign. That was way cool considering that I also am that sign! We hit it off right away. What a sense of humor, he was soooo sarcastic, but in a good way! I made a move that he never saw on the rock and named it the Chery hip hop. Philip did an underhand grab that RC also named the Philly cling.
After we were done climbing for the day, we all sat back and opened some Sobe's. My cap had Monkey Cat written under it. Raleigh thought this was so cool, he started calling me Monkey Cat! He gave me so much confidence that day and said to keep it up I would be a great climber. He kepy bugging me about that Sobe cap. He wanted it to hang in his old Chevy truck. He ended up trading me the cap for a sage smudge stick he made from JT.
Philip and I climbed Cathedral Peak July 3rd with a guide from YMS, named Trevor. On the hike up to the peak we were taking about RC and Trevor said he had passed away. It was quite a shock! We were so influenced by his great energy and his lust for life. Then we found out how Raleigh died and it made it that much more upsetting. We were looking forward to climbing the east face of Whitney with him.
Raleigh we're sorry you bailed out, you'll be missed and not forgotten.
Hope you find peace man.
have some great photos of RC from that day on Capricorn. As soon as I scan them I'll post them.
|
|
Ricardo Carlos
Trad climber
Off center, CO.
|
|
Raleigh Raleigh Raleigh
I received a call from a beach and sailing day’s friend. Had not seen her for years, so I was even more surprised when the reason she called was Raleigh landed in her Palm Springs Pool. I did not know that Raleigh after the film gig on EL Cap started hang gliding and base jumping
|
|
Ipo
Trad climber
Slovenia
|
|
Me and my Chuchi (so we called my todays wife at great time in Arco with Rolly) had this great prevealege to meet this good american buddy. We watched him while he jumped from Monte Brento and I am sure that he was a really master of his body. We climbed together in Slovenia, and we waited for his next visit. He was an spontaneous and instantly warm person, it seems like he was constanly searching for perfect love and he found this in life on the edge. Rolly thank you for all the moments you share with us. We have a daughter Nike now and...
so long Rollo.
|
|
Todd Gordon
Trad climber
Joshua Tree, Cal
|
|
Be at peace now....
|
|
James
climber
My twin brother's laundry room
|
|
|
Feb 12, 2009 - 07:08pm PT
|
In the winter of 2004, I escaped my duties as a student and headed down to Joshua Tree National Park, the long time haunt of many of my friends. They spent most of their time running around the blobs in the park, climbing ropelessly. That was the game in Joshua Tree and I followed suit. On December 18th, I stretched and headed around hidden Valley Campground, looking for routes to warm up on. My friend Dave and his buddy Raleigh booted up at the base of Double Cross, a moderate 5.7. I followed the pair up the climb and we talked and laughed about the day.
When we finished, I soloed Tabby Litter, a 5.8 on the other side of the formation. Raleigh suggested it. It was a good route albeit short. Dave went back to camp and Raleigh and I bouldered a little. We climbed up and down on the Pyramid Boulder. I was getting worked and wanted to solo more. Raleigh asked me if I wanted to go climb Baby Apes with him on the Bachar Toprope wall. I shook my head and said I would rather go off on my own.
I went to Intersection Rock and fell a hundred feet soloing the North Overhang. I laid in a pool of blood at the base. I felt destroyed. My friends came and helped me. My family flew from across the continent to be by my side.
I came out of the hospital and recovered substantially, going on to becoming a more successful man and climber. My story became well known in the climbing community. I am sure Raleigh heard it.
In March of 2006, Raleigh Collins ran off the top of Sports Challenge Rock and dove into the boulders below. He died taking a smaller fall than I.
I did not know Raleigh well but I often wonder if I set bad example for him. If he thought that he too, could stand up from a disaster, and have his friends, his family, and strangers rush to his side. I set an example and now I sometimes think to myself did I kill Raleigh Collins?
I do not know. I only wish we had climbed Baby Apes that day. Maybe we could have helped each other. At the least we could have laughed a little.
|
|
halfhitch
Trad climber
Steamboat Springs, CO
|
|
|
Feb 12, 2009 - 09:06pm PT
|
I'll miss Raleigh - use to buzz around Rubidoux & espeically the bridge wall. His antics winging around, buzzing the tower errrr intersect at Josh.. I kinda ache in my pit - thought the memories are fine.
|
|
Ksolem
Trad climber
Monrovia, California
|
|
|
Feb 12, 2009 - 09:40pm PT
|
You know James, I don't think you should worry much about your amazing story of survival and comeback having an influence on Raliegh's choice.
I climbed with Raliegh more than a few times. Several of our days were spent with Hidetaka Suzuki as well. What an odd trio...
As were many, I was shocked by his suicide, to the point where I have not gone to that area under Leave It To Beaver ever since.
|
|
chez
Social climber
chicago ill
|
|
|
Feb 12, 2009 - 11:00pm PT
|
I'm sure your fall had nothing to do with Raliegh.
Just as sure you probably would of had a better day at Baby Apes
|
|
James
climber
My twin brother's laundry room
|
|
|
Feb 12, 2009 - 11:55pm PT
|
Pat Warren emailed me and made a poignant point. "I think that everybody that knows someone that commits suicide or dies around them blames themselves in some way or another. No fault of anyones."
I sleep restlessly when I have guilt on my conscious. I wish I could have helped. It's a sad thing to learn to live with.
|
|
survival
Big Wall climber
A Token of My Extreme
|
|
|
Feb 12, 2009 - 11:56pm PT
|
He looks so familiar, I'm sure we met somewhere back in the day.
There is some really deep and beautiful stuff written here.
I got totally absorbed into this thread earlier tonight.
I lost a good friend to suicide once too. A very sad time.
Some guys that live life the hardest just can't figure out how to reel it in a few notches.
Someone, or numerous people have said that those that burn the brightest......
|
|
Rankin
climber
Bishop, CA
|
|
|
Feb 13, 2009 - 12:09am PT
|
I met Raleigh at the Happy Boulders about eight years ago. I remember thinking he was kind of a ham, but a nice guy. I could feel him rooting for me to climb well. Whenever he fell off a problem, he would complain about 'an old sex injury' that was holding him back.
|
|
scuffy b
climber
just below the San Andreas
|
|
|
Feb 13, 2009 - 12:13pm PT
|
James, don't do this to yourself.
He had his own demons. They were bigger than you.
|
|
klk
Trad climber
cali
|
|
|
Feb 13, 2009 - 12:41pm PT
|
What Scuffy said.
|
|
spyork
Social climber
A prison of my own creation
|
|
|
Feb 13, 2009 - 12:51pm PT
|
James, what the Warren guy said.
I started to relate a personal story about the subject (taking ones life), but its still too painful and I dont know how to write it down without screwing it up.
|
|
happiegrrrl
Trad climber
New York, NY
|
|
|
Feb 13, 2009 - 01:40pm PT
|
When James resurrected this thread I went looking back to see if that slideshow of him and a few others heading to Vegas for a night on the town was still up. Unfortunately, not.
If you saw that, James, you would know beyond doubt that Raleigh was "his own man," and whatever drove him was emanating from within.
Too bad the slideshow's gone - that was FUN-NY. Apparently, Raleigh had got the idea to go to Vegas and paint the town red. He hooked two friends into the escapade..... He decided it should be done with style, and so they went to thrift stores and dolled up in vintage "oh yeah," white wannabe gangsta/sipping Julips in the Sun" attire....
Raleigh drove. An airplane.
And that was just the first tenth of the slideshow.....
|
|
Capt.
climber
some eastside hovel
|
|
|
Feb 13, 2009 - 07:16pm PT
|
Funny...Been seein' that old yellow truck of his around town lately.
|
|
happiegrrrl
Trad climber
New York, NY
|
|
|
Feb 13, 2009 - 11:08pm PT
|
Hey JEM - Thanks. I only met Raleigh once, but this slideshow really does show his personality ....
|
|
Mungeclimber
Trad climber
sorry, just posting out loud.
|
|
|
Feb 14, 2009 - 01:28am PT
|
I've been enjoying his routes at AHills. Good stuff.
|
|
DrCrankenstein
Social climber
too many places, actually
|
|
|
Nov 22, 2010 - 02:43pm PT
|
This is my first post to this link and my first comment of my friend RC's death. After random web-surfing today, I was compelled to write a comment on mountainproject under the route Levitation 29. I recalled a memory of that climb with Raleigh. So I decided to re-post it here too:
Great memories of this route! Did it once with Raleigh Collins (RIP) in 1996. After a late drive from his hang in JTree, we crashed at a lady friend of his' house in Vegas. The plan was to get up super early and hike in to do a couple routes including L29. While I slept, Raleigh and said lady friend partied it up with lots of alcohol and some funny stuff and much crazy sexual exploits which I learned about later...Anyways, my alarm woke me up to the low hum of some music from the bedroom. I banged on the door and after a "Yo dude!!!" or two, RC comes to the doorway looking like, haha, well he looked like he had quite the evening! After half sleeping in the car and excitedly telling me some details of the night, we got to the trailhead. Part way up the hike, Raleigh hurls and painfully continues for a few minutes. At this point, I don't feel sorry for him but I do ask if we should continue. Anyone who knew him would know his pride. We continued to the base and after he puked again, we started up the route. I led every pitch and he followed clean. It's not a particularly difficult route but in his condition, that's like a different situation. I remember him really trying to hold back another hurl-episode while I was leading...lots of muffled coughing until I got to an anchor up high...then he released more bile in a convulsion of sorts-Yikes! We topped out, gave a high-five and proceeded on the descent. I told him that even though we were only doing one route, unlike we had planned, I was still psyched and proud of him for trooping up there and keeping it together. Raleigh was a proud man, in my eyes. Even though I did know of some of his personal troubles, I never knew what really ate away at his core. It really rocked me when I heard of his death in 2006, which appeared to be suicide. Raleigh was a great friend to me, I still miss him!
-Alex
|
|
Iron Mtn.
Trad climber
Corona, Ca.
|
|
|
Nov 22, 2010 - 02:53pm PT
|
I met Raleigh at Williamson Rock about 15 or 16 years ago.
He was one of the coolest people/climbers i've ever met.
Full of enthusiasm and encouragement.
Such a drag......
|
|
John Dale
Social climber
Foster City
|
|
|
Jan 21, 2015 - 12:09pm PT
|
I met Raliegh in 1994 when I was on a windsurfing trip at San Carlos Baja California. We spent the week windsurfing on the Pacific, surfing head high waves, telling stories and having a great time! I remember he would wear this red helmet on the water that we called "the beacon". He was always smiling, telling jokes and just enjoying life. I also remember he had a van he called the "Gray Whale". I never forgot Raliegh over the years and saddened to hear about his passing.
RIP Raliegh
|
|
Boar
Trad climber
San Diego. California
|
|
|
Sep 11, 2016 - 07:08pm PT
|
Well it was in like 1980,85? we flew in light airplane out of Brown field, San Diego. CA. we flew out 13,000 foot right past the foot hills to where he gave me the controls. I flew around a big Cumulus cloud, or I'll try to post the pic of the day in like 1980,85 again to where me and another friend that was Mr. Collins to and had climbed with him many times in Joshua Tree and we lived in Ramona at the time of to where he was flying a light plane to where he ran into engine trouble and had to land in a vacant field and my friend Mr, T. Wold called me and said Mr.R. Collins had landed a plane in a field just south of downtown Ramona, Ca. an excellent grat climber and friend who will be sorely missed!
|
|
| Messages 1 - 118 of total 118 in this topic |
|
SuperTopo on the Web
|
Let us know!