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Karl Baba
Trad climber
Yosemite, Ca
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Topic Author's Original Post - Aug 14, 2009 - 01:26pm PT
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Ron Kauk has been a legend and a fixture in Yosemite (and worldwide) for so long, that when he started climbing in Yosemite his nickname was “Boy Wonder.”
Now we’ve already celebrated his 50th birthday on the taco, and he is still climbing hard…very hard. His “Magic Line” testpiece is one of the hardest pitches in Yosemite and remains unrepeated.
I could go on and on about his climbing accomplishments but perhaps that’s for others to include on this thread. What really impresses me about Ron is his evolution and contribution as a whole.
Way Back in the day Ron had a lot of testosterone. He was like a young warrior counting coup and performing acts of power. He wasn’t much for words, and wasn't good at words, but still managed to be a leader in his way.
As time passed, Ron not only keep developing his climbing skills, he kept connecting his inner Spirit to Nature and the Power that makes Nature. He helped others develop their own selves, their own climbing, and became an articulate spokesman for Yosemite, and our relationship with the Natural world.
When I was in Thailand, I talked to local climbers who Ron helped in many ways. More recently, humbly, and behind the scenes, I’ve seen him support and “be there” for people in their time of need.
He’s not perfect, and he wouldn’t claim it. Heroes never are. We are different enough in our predilections that I’m not trying to be more like Ron. I think Ron would just encourage people to be true to themselves and to open up to the message our dance in Nature can bring us.
He has a powerful relationship with the local Native Americans in Yosemite. I believe they honor each other in many ways.
He has chosen to take the noble path and I think he deserves a seat on any council of Elders.
I’ve been in Yosemite for decades now and have felt almost as if I were married to Yosemite in some way. We have a relationship. Yosemite is a part of me. If I were to pick people whom I guessed has the same sort of “Oneness” with this place, Ron would be first on the list.
So here is to the man, Ron Kauk. I salute you Brother.
Peace
Karl Baba
Edit: Photo is by Galen Rowell
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Hardman Knott
Gym climber
Muir Woods National Monument, Mill Valley, Ca
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Aug 14, 2009 - 01:31pm PT
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Amazing photo above. Is that one of yours?
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hooblie
climber
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Aug 14, 2009 - 01:35pm PT
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i've always felt he carries the pride in a graceful way, has taken on the path of growth as honest work.
without a word he got me to thinking there's more that holds to stone than fingers and toes
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The Wolf
Trad climber
East SF Bay Area
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Aug 14, 2009 - 01:42pm PT
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I've never "officially" met Mr. Kauk but over the past 20 years I have talked with him in the Tuolumne parking lot or around the campground many times. He is a kind and interesting man who always has time to say hello and offer a smile
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L
climber
Wrung through the paradox, broken into wholeness
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Aug 14, 2009 - 01:44pm PT
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Simply an amazing man all round. Incredible athlete, awesome dad, conscious on a level few can understand, and truly caring about the Earth and her brood...
Namaste, Ron.
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SteveW
Trad climber
The state of confusion
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Aug 14, 2009 - 01:56pm PT
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No doubt, Ron has and still is an inspiration.
Yay, for the Kaukster!!!!
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Toker Villain
Big Wall climber
Toquerville, Utah
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Aug 14, 2009 - 02:01pm PT
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Ran into Ron again at OR a few years back. Modest and self-effacing, he is a terrific example to younger climbers of how an individual can play a pivotal role in our pursuit.
Rock on.
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Iron Mtn.
Trad climber
Corona, Ca.
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Aug 14, 2009 - 02:09pm PT
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Like Robbins, Bridwell, Bachar, etc. One of the true visionaries of modern climbing.
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the Fet
Supercaliyosemistic climber
Tu-Tok-A-Nu-La
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Aug 14, 2009 - 02:12pm PT
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He's the real hero Tom Cruise tries to portray.
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Studly
Trad climber
WA
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Aug 14, 2009 - 02:14pm PT
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Always been someone I looked up to in a big way since my youth. Watched a video of his. Soft spoken, humble, and amazing climber. The way he speaks of every thing being connected, of what he has learned on the walls of Yosemite, it stuck a chord with me. Very impressive individual.
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Mark Not-circlehead
Boulder climber
Martinez, CA
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Aug 14, 2009 - 02:15pm PT
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That photo I think was taken by Galen. It was on the cover of Climbing back in the early 90s.
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Lynne Leichtfuss
Social climber
valley center, ca
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Aug 14, 2009 - 02:15pm PT
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I have never formally met you Ron, but I was a few feet away when you spoke at John Bachar's memorial. Great, thoughtful from the heart comments. The metaphor of two brothers perfect imho.
Have a great day. Like one of your bros told me recently...."the future is the moment". Peace, Lynne
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Dr.Sprock
Boulder climber
Sprocketville
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Aug 14, 2009 - 02:19pm PT
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most amazing rock climbing hands i have ever seen.
you could hit those fingers with a 10 lb mallet and they stay the same.
unfair And illegal.
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Fletcher
Trad climber
Shivasana
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Aug 14, 2009 - 02:30pm PT
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I saw Ron's slide show last year and that inner spirit and connection to and appreciation of nature shined brightly.
Eric
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Karl Baba
Trad climber
Yosemite, Ca
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Topic Author's Reply - Aug 14, 2009 - 02:35pm PT
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Not to mention, the guy is 50, looks like Tom Cruise and has all his hair in abundance
unfair And illegal!
Plus, he's killing all my excuses for climbing softer with age
Peace
Karl
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Russ Walling
Gym climber
Poofter's Froth, Wyoming
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Aug 14, 2009 - 02:40pm PT
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Bundy is the MAN!!!!!!
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Nefarius
Big Wall climber
Fresno
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Aug 14, 2009 - 02:43pm PT
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Looks like Tom Cruise... Talks like Morpheus? :)
Ron is awesome!
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bluering
Trad climber
Santa Clara, Ca.
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Aug 14, 2009 - 02:53pm PT
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Yeah, the guy's a badass....love to meet him someday.
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Setageus
Trad climber
East Bay San Fransisco
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Aug 14, 2009 - 03:13pm PT
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Always a pleasure to see Ron and chat when our paths cross in the valley or Tuolomne. Years ago, published photos like the one shown here by Galen Rowell, were my first impressions of rock climbing - and impress they did! To find out he's very approachable just makes him a kind of natural wonder in his own right and amid the Yosemite habitat full of natural wonders! Most importantly, you just get this sense that he strives to be a truly good soul! Quite the inspiration!
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Mark Hudon
Trad climber
Hood River, OR
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Aug 14, 2009 - 03:18pm PT
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I always thought Ron had more talent in his little finger than most anyone else had in their whole body.
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Jingy
Social climber
Flatland, Ca
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Aug 14, 2009 - 03:19pm PT
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Been admiring his climbing my entire climbing life...
Thanks for the reminder Karl.... That stuff about the hair.. I feel ya! LOL
Cheers
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Roger Breedlove
climber
Cleveland Heights, Ohio
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Aug 14, 2009 - 03:51pm PT
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I an not much a fan of this sort of statement, but I think that Ron is, hands down, the best free climber of his generation. And there were some really talented folks in that generation.
Short story:
In the early 70s, when Ron was new in the Valley and only mid-teens he was climbing hard. He and his partner and I and my partner had finished our respective routes on the NE face of Middle. I had just done Paradise Lost; Ron may have just finished the lower section of the DNB. We were rapping off where the two routes meet.
I rapped down to the first station and just about blew a fuse when I saw that Ron was about to rap off a single lost arrow with a sling run through the eye. I was trying not to sound too shrill, but...I jumped all over him and told him that he needed two points.
Ron looked at me impassively, waited until I had finished, and calmly said: "Its your job as an expericened climber to show young climbers like me how to do this so we don't get hurt."
Then he put in another pin rapped off.
When it came to actual climbing, I had nothing to show to Ron.
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Tarbuster
climber
right here, right now
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Aug 14, 2009 - 03:59pm PT
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Bachar on Kauk:
"The most badass climber there ever was..."
Sort of a competitive statement, of the subtle false modesty type, and a public one, but he meant it too.
Also credited Ron as the gun on their FFA of the East Face of Washington Column.
I first spied him in front of the Tuolumne store, with Lucy and his two small sons in tow, all in full cowboy regalia, Ron carrying the mystique of a modern Knights Templar.
Definitely approachable.
One night during the mid-80s, Russ, Ron and I were holding vigil at our pad in Josh, sipping tequila and spinning vinyl. In the black of night those guys would call out tunes they wanted to hear, and like a faithful jukebox I had repeatedly dropped the needle right in the track pauses, to joyously wax out John Lee Hooker, Roxy Music, Joe Jackson and etc.
Ron kept asking for "Jet Set" from Joe's "Big World" album, because it had this terrifically boisterous surfer music guitar twang to it. I'd play it, he'd knock back in his chair reveling: and ask Russ to pour us another round of tequila...
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bluering
Trad climber
Santa Clara, Ca.
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Aug 14, 2009 - 04:10pm PT
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Those are good times, Roy!!!! Hold on to 'em!
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WBraun
climber
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Aug 14, 2009 - 05:32pm PT
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Karl B -- "He wasn’t much for words, and wasn't good at words, but still managed to be a leader in his way."
Not true. His words are always concise and well thought out, his words are always very enlightening. He's a very deep thinker.
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Peter Haan
Trad climber
San Francisco, CA
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Aug 14, 2009 - 05:38pm PT
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I guess I first met Ronnie when he was in late teens. John B and he were tight as superglue and had the same way of holding their bodies. Bridwell called it "yeti" at the time. As all things change, so did they. This (internet/who?) shot also includes a very very rare look at Mark Klemens aka The Goat. Great guys, all!!
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Lynne Leichtfuss
Social climber
valley center, ca
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Aug 14, 2009 - 07:05pm PT
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Uh, and imho a whole lot better looking than Tom Cruise. :D
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Largo
Sport climber
Venice, Ca
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Aug 14, 2009 - 07:32pm PT
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We had some excelent times. Ron and Mike Graham are the two real natural climbers I had the pleasure of seeing. Ron was also a very accomplished aid climber. He could do it all. A true master.
JL
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Ricky D
Trad climber
Sierra Westside
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Aug 14, 2009 - 07:35pm PT
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That last photo begs the question - would hippies have existed if Volkswagen had not made buses?
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Double D
climber
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Aug 14, 2009 - 08:23pm PT
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I agree with Werner, Ron's words were always well though out and concise. Even from a very young age he seemed to posses the wisdom of an elder. Always the encourager always stoked about something. His smooth, effortless climbing style inspired many. Simply one of the best climbers of all time… hands down.
And thanks for “seeing” this one when I was too lazy to “see” it.
Edit: Love that pic of Ron, Mark Clements and the twin busses (Bachar’s…I think and my old blue rig). Many memories of great times in the dirty ditch.
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all in jim
climber
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Aug 14, 2009 - 10:20pm PT
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Magic Line!
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Rob_James
Ice climber
Aoraki/Mt. Cook Village, New Zealand
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Aug 14, 2009 - 10:52pm PT
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Met Ron on a recent Yosemite blast.
We traded apple pie for 2 tickets to his funny and engaging Friday evening presentation at the Visitors' Centre.
I hope he has/may find a wonderful women to know as his special own.
An evolving gentleman, with a solid handshake - (with respect) his strongest contributions may well be ahead of him.
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donini
Trad climber
Ouray, Colorado
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Aug 14, 2009 - 11:02pm PT
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Ron has always been humble about his prodigious climbing achievements and his respect and appreciation for the environment and for native culture is admirable.
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Jaybro
Social climber
Wolf City, Wyoming
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Aug 14, 2009 - 11:10pm PT
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When I broke my finger I was resigned to being a judge/belayer at that year's Phoenix Bouldering contest. My station was at the pirhanna wall. One of 'My" climbs was a nasty .11 sandbag finger crack. RK was one of my first customers.
He started up, then downclimbed to put his Oaklies on the safety cone. He waltzed up the route while we shot the shidt, telling Cilley stories. Of course, he flashed the route. The next person in line was a kid who I suspect hadn't been climbing long, "I thought this one looked too hard, but that guy made it look easy" I didn't have the heart to warn him... Yeah that Kauk guy has his moves...
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richross
Trad climber
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Aug 14, 2009 - 11:19pm PT
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I don't really know him but met him in the Gunks when he was working on the second ascent of Supercrack in 1977.
I was there when this photo was taken by NA climber founder Paul Baird.
Me and Paul had been climbing nearby.
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Tarbuster
climber
right here, right now
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Aug 14, 2009 - 11:27pm PT
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Feet equally balanced.
Hips into the rock; superlative body mechanics.
That dude knows what he's doing.
Such a terrific photograph.
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chez
Social climber
chicago ill
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Aug 14, 2009 - 11:42pm PT
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Smooth climber with real style that one! Never saw him climb in person but after seeing the video "Art of Leading" i realized he had style.
There were other " tacos" in that video can you name them?
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Captain...or Skully
Social climber
Boise....
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Aug 15, 2009 - 12:23am PT
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I've never hung with Ron at length, but He's ALWAYS been real neighborly, even when Circlehead & I were ribbin' him, I forget why, somethin' trivial, but it seemed funny at the time.
Gracious & kind Bro, that one.
Props!
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Ed Hartouni
Trad climber
Livermore, CA
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Aug 15, 2009 - 01:22am PT
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I would like to say that my thoughts of the serene nature of Yosemite Valley, those early mornings when you're there by yourself and the beauty infuses you with spirituality. Those middays when you can feel the pounding of the waterfalls on your feet, as if you where connected to them by the ground. The evenings with the moon lighting the granite apron of the Alcove under the great expanse of the southeast face of El Capitan.
When my thoughts are there, Ron is a part of them. Aside from his accomplishments as a climber, which are magnificent, he has grown to be a part of that place, grown through respect, and through action.
We were sitting on the bridge one day, chatting with Tom. Out of the woods from along the east side of the river came Ron. He quickly and quietly walked past, acknowledged us on his way. My immediate thought was from out of my past, of the bears, at least when they were more commonly around. Of a particular bear who walked past me not a few feet away in the dark, a shadow in the campfire light. Powerful, strong, moving silently and with intention. They were there because it was natural.
And so it seems with Ron.
Thanks Ron.
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ron gomez
Trad climber
fallbrook,ca
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Aug 15, 2009 - 01:36am PT
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Brother Ron, good to see you this last week, always enjoy the time we spend together......let the spirit be with you in Tuolumne as it is with me!
Peace Brother!
Ron
Ps...get back to me on our discussion at the log pit!
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neebee
Social climber
calif/texas
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Aug 15, 2009 - 04:12am PT
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hey there say, ... oh my, wow, ... as to ron...
say, this is the ron kauk that i have seen mentioned in some of the climbs that my brother did...
thanks for being you, ron... and god bless to you always...
:)
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Fuzzywuzzy
climber
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Aug 15, 2009 - 11:05am PT
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I recall another nickname...."The Missing Link"
"Bundy" kills me.
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wayne w
Trad climber
the nw
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Aug 15, 2009 - 02:30pm PT
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Lots of truth spoken on this thread. Once when JB and I were doing a workout at the Olympic training gym, behind the rescue site, the subject of Ron came up. John said he had to do all these sets to be able to do what he did, and that Ron didn't, because "he is just naturally strong."
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Ihateplastic
Trad climber
Lake Oswego, Oregon
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Aug 15, 2009 - 02:39pm PT
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When I was traveling with Bachar at his Colorado lectures I introduced him with the same story that was true with Ron. I have known Ron from our early teens in the Bay Area when we would boulder at Castle Rock, etc. But Ron (like JB) was on a different level. When I finally felt solid on 5.9 Ron was cranking out 5.10. I led my first .10 only to realize Ron had jumped to .11. And then, when I cranked my first .11 I hear JB soloed New Ds and the two of them had put up a beauty with Hot Line. Ron would always be numerous steps ahead of me on the rock but on the level ground he is a kind, friendly, humorous gentleman who holds no airs.
I know it's a bit of a stretch, but I see him today as a modern-day John Muir... he CARES about the Valley.
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Klimmer
Mountain climber
San Diego
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Aug 15, 2009 - 04:37pm PT
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I remember in the 80s RK coming down to Woodson and doing a tour with Rick Pickett before the big contest coming up.
I was climbing that day with my girlfriend and later we watched as Rick soloed "Mother Superior" and then turning to Ron and saying give it a go or something to the effect. And then Ron looking up at those of us watching from above on the road, smiled and said, "I think I'll tie-in and use the rope." Doing so he then proceeded to easily send it.
That contest at Woodson he dominated. He started early, did all the climbs and test pieces he wanted, racked up massive points and beat everyone before anyone knew what was going on. Awesome.
He was really easy going and talked with my girlfriend and I. Very nice guy. Casual dresser even in the 80s: 501 levis, Wallabees, Pendleton shirt. I thought maybe he thought it was the 70s. Really nice guy.
All woman who see him think he is really good looking. My girlfriend then, and my wife now, two different women, told me so.
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Karl Baba
Trad climber
Yosemite, Ca
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Topic Author's Reply - Aug 20, 2009 - 05:02am PT
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It's like 1982 or so and I'm the night housing supervisor in the Valley. In charge of not letting the climbers take over employee housing at night. Still, I'm a climber myself and let Bachar slide on living in his van, bailed Yaboo out of one of his fixes, and on night I get a call that some guys have fired off fire extinguishers in the Ahwahnee dorms.
Kauk is there and his "fingerprints" are definitely part of the scene. I had a friendly talk with him. He knew I didn't have proof and I didn't particularly want any, just get low key dude.
His words were something along the lines of "You guys can never catch me..I'm a coyote!"
Who'd wanna catch a Coyote anyway?
Peace and bump
Karl
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cleo
Social climber
Berkeley, CA
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Aug 20, 2009 - 11:05am PT
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I had the pleasure of meeting Ron last year when he offered to come out and give a slideshow here. He was a gracious and humble soul, and has a strong desire and drive to share his spiritual connection with the Valley and nature with others, especially kids. Conversations with him always took an hour, where I could barely keep up with his spirited thoughts, and I hope to have many future talks with Ron.
Thanks Ron, for being an inspiration.
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Patrick Oliver
Boulder climber
Fruita, Colorado
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Aug 20, 2009 - 12:02pm PT
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I have only great thoughts about Ron. He has remained
for years one of the leading lights of American and
world free climbing. Whenever I would ask Bachar about
a certain boulder, if it was repeated, or ever finally
done, he'd usually refer to Ron and say something like,
Yeah, Ron did it." I don't think John respected anyone more
than Ron.
Pat
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Seamstress
Trad climber
Yacolt, WA
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Aug 20, 2009 - 12:19pm PT
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You can tell a lot about a man's character by the way he conducts himself around those he will never see again. I've had the fortune - sometimes misfortune - to be around a lot of rich and famous people from many different walks in life. I've seen a lot of people who honestly believe their sh#t does not stink, but you do......
My husband was surprised to see Mr. Kauk in Yosemite, said "Kauk", and corralled the man for a conversation. We went to his show at the visitor's center and were impressed that he truly wanted to engage the audience, and in particular the little ones, in a discussion. No matter what the question or conversation, he treated all with kindness and patience. There was a genuine "centeredness" there. For years, my dad could never understand why his daughter climbs. When we left the show that night, he came away with a new perspective and a far less judgemental opinion.
Like it or not, the ambassadors of the sport are not just an inspiration or example for those in the sport, but they also shape opinion of non-climbers (some of whom can make a BIG impact us) about climbing and its legitimacy. Many in the sport forget about that. Even from a far away place, I see that he is not just a taker, but he has done some giving, too. And that comes at the cost of precious time outside.
Appreciate those who can do, and those that give back in some way. Express that appreciation while they are still alive.
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TwistedCrank
climber
Ideeho-dee-do-dah-day
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Aug 20, 2009 - 12:38pm PT
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A month or two after Bacher did the BY and he was pretty much peaking, I made some comment to him about being the best north American climber. He said, in his awe shucks kind of way, "Naw, it's Kauk". For some reason that respect that John had for Ron really stuck with me.
I think Kauk was working on the Yosemite trail crew that summer - he was pretty low-key about climbing at the time after the adventure on Uhi Biaho.
The next day, while my partner and I were thrashing up some trade route, along came Bacher and Kauk on solo, giggling like a couple of high school boys getting away with playing hooky.
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Mike Bolte
Trad climber
Planet Earth
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Aug 20, 2009 - 01:08pm PT
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A bad picture of Ron from a month ago. His climbing resume is really incredible for its breadth (boulders to frozen giant walls in Asia), length in time, and level of mastery. Someone who had the equivalent of Ron's accomplishments in some other higher-profile area of human activity (great scientist, business leader, political leader) would be a household name and in the history books.
I like what got said further up thread: Ron has become a part of Yosemite and Tuolumne almost like the bears and the coyotes and the domes.
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hashbro
Trad climber
Mental Physics........
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Aug 21, 2009 - 12:08am PT
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I've known Ron since my first trip to the Valley in 73' when he showed us knuckleheads around like without regard to our notoriety or climbing ability
Ron has a heart of gold, knows a lot about compassion and is a deeply spiritual person...and of course is an extremely honed athlete and rock-artist....
And, Ron is a dedicated activist on issues he cares deeply about.
Ronny gives us 50 year olds a true example of what is still possible and how to do it in style!
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Studly
Trad climber
WA
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Aug 23, 2009 - 04:54pm PT
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Bump 4 "The Dude"
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CF
climber
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Aug 23, 2009 - 05:20pm PT
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wayne w
Trad climber
the nw
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Aug 23, 2009 - 07:07pm PT
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Classic shot Chris. Thanks for posting it!
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Brian in SLC
Social climber
Salt Lake City, UT
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Aug 23, 2009 - 07:52pm PT
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A bad picture of Ron from a month ago.
Geez, 'bout ran that guy down last week in the A loop...
Ha ha. Not really. Sorta.
Lookin' great, Ron!
-Brian in SLC
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Fuzzywuzzy
climber
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Aug 24, 2009 - 11:23am PT
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Okay Okay - all who know Ron love him.
But, relationships depend on a spectrum of shared episodes - right?
AND a number of Ron's friends share some rather, shall I say "off-color" experiences with "Boy Wonder, Bundy, Son-of-Yosemite, Link" etc.
Which makes his/our friendship "special".
For example, I recently heard a story recounted about the day Mastadon officially met RK.
The Warbler was there.
How about it Kevin - remember? It concerned crashing a Curry Employee dance and some "Off-time".
Mastadon remembered something about awaking to plastic stuck to his face and Ron's laughter from across the cell???
TC
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eeyonkee
Trad climber
Golden, CO
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Aug 24, 2009 - 12:32pm PT
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No offense to the other Stonemasters, but, in the mid to late '70s, when I was a Valley semi-regular, I always thought that Ron was the most approachable of the masters. I'll never forget the appropriate gift he gave to me and Al Chase the night before we started up Tangerine Trip (no, it wasn't a tangerine).
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Fuzzywuzzy
climber
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Aug 24, 2009 - 01:15pm PT
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Kevin -
Classic, "You can go with him"!!!
Thanks for posting up.
Don may come on and explain the plastic. He was a bit rowdy as I recall.
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mastadon
Trad climber
quaking has-been
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Aug 25, 2009 - 05:50am PT
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Mr. Carter Sir,
Thank you for giving some of us the opportunity to air some dirty laundry on a public forum. Maybe some day you’ll tell us about the time you were discovered by the local police sleeping in the arms of a partially clothed mannequin under a southern California freeway……..
Concerning the incident you mentioned: I did indeed have the disturbing pleasure of waking up in the Yosemite jail one time (well…maybe more then once). A few of us spent a rigorous evening in the Mountain Room Bar enhancing climber/non-climber relations. Things became a little hazy after a while. The next thing I remember is coming to consciousness (you don’t really wake up when you’re in that condition), opening one eye and finding my face pressed against plastic. I turned the possibilities over in my mind and couldn’t come up with any rational reason for my head to be on a plastic coated mattress. I focused my one open eye a little further away and saw Ron Kauk sitting on a bunk a few feet away, pointing a crooked finger at me and laughing. Kevin Worral was sitting on a bunk above Ron. The previous evening started to come back to my fogged mind-being chased by rangers through camp 4, tripping in the drainage ditch, struggling with the ranger trying to arrest me, etc, etc…..
Ron and Kevin spent the next three days in jail for crashing a Curry Co dance and I was out the next day (after far more serious offenses). I remember that they were truly pissed that I got out before them. The rangers, at that time, had it out for some of the local color and Ron and Kevin fit that category. I, on the other hand, had maintained a lower profile, at least up to that point.
Ron and I still laugh about the encounter.....
--
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Gary
climber
Desolation Basin, Calif.
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Aug 25, 2009 - 10:31am PT
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WBraun: His words are always concise and well thought out, his words are always very enlightening. He's a very deep thinker.
Sort of like yourself, Werner. I've always been amazed by those Magic Line photos. I saw his slide show last year and agree wholeheartedly with Werner's comments. He seems like a real good guy.
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Fuzzywuzzy
climber
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Aug 25, 2009 - 10:54am PT
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Don -
Come on, you are STILL holding me ransom for that "incident"??
The "Ref" is waving the penalty flag -let's talk this over.
How about we gang up on Bundy??
We could drag some one like CC into this for some shady/foggy memories of RK BITD?
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fluffy
Trad climber
boulder
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Aug 25, 2009 - 11:09am PT
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"I know it's a bit of a stretch, but I see him today as a modern-day John Muir... he CARES about the Valley."
i can think of no higher praise
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Fuzzywuzzy
climber
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Aug 26, 2009 - 01:24pm PT
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Kev -
Do you remember the details of the "half-in half-out" Camp 4 boundary altercation?
Nudity?
Of course he CARES he blinking lived there almost all his life - He wears his heart on his sleeve.
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climbbjj
Social climber
Tahoe
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Aug 29, 2009 - 10:09pm PT
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Him and Bachar were my imspiration when I first got into climbing in the mid 90's. I met him several times over the years. First time was in 1994 or so when he was working Dominator with Ben Moon.
One memorable time was in the Valley in 1997. It was less than a week after they re-opened the park following the big flood. I think there were a total of 20 people in Camp 4 for the whole 10 days I was there. Firewood in the form of old tree branches was piled everywhere in Curry. We had the park to ourselves and there was no need to get up at the butt crack of dawn to get to popular routes before anyone else. Freakin' Sweet.
Anyway, one day after climbing at the Cookie (whole cliff was all ours), which we had to access via hiking down an old logging road that starts in Foresta, my partner and I made a late day recon visit to Reed's to scope out Lunatic Fringe and some other stuff for the following day.
We're standing at the base of the regular route when out of nowhere a rap rope comes flying down and misses my buddy by about 10 feet. There was no warning that we could hear.
My buddy, noticably perturbed yells up "Hey, thanks for the warning!!" and then shakes his head at me with an expression like "What the f*#k, the park is empty and we still run into some dork who can't yell before tossing his line?"
Anyway, 2 minutes later, down comes the offending party. It's Ron Kauk. First thing out of his mouth was a sincere "Hey, sorry guys. Didn't really expect anyone to be around".
We tell him it's no biggie and talk for a while. I ask him how nice it must be to have an empty park for a while. While the circumstances leading up to it are unfortunate, he says it is a great vacation from the usual crowds.
Then we talk about some routes and he gives me some beta on the Fringe, and just like that he is off.
After he leaves, me and my buddy joke about how anyone else would have gotten a lecture from us about climbing etiquette.
I tell him he should have pretended not to know who Ron was and give him the lecture anyway:
"Ok buddy, you're probably pretty new to climbing, so we'll let you off with a warning this time, but when you throw your rap line, you're supposed to yell 'ROPE' so no one on the ground gets whacked. So you capeesh what we're tellng you here? because we'd hate to have to tell you a second time. Ok, now get your gear and get out of here while the gettin's good ya' noob!"
Anyway, nice guy in person. Totally friendly and approachable.
I know he's over 50 now and age gets us all eventually. How hard does he climb these days? I know Peace and Magic line went up when he was around my age (41) which is itself pretty amazing.
Here's to Ron.
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hossjulia
Trad climber
Eastside
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Aug 30, 2009 - 11:57am PT
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Some great stories here, keep um coming.
In 82 I met Kauk through climbing. Not in person, but through the mags and stories.
I met him in person when I started working at TPR and have come to enjoy our occasional breakfast together and the great talks we've had. There is a depth there that is born of trying to make more of a relatively selfish sport/profession. And I think he has done so admirably.
Thanks Ron.
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Dr.Sprock
Boulder climber
Sprocketville
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Aug 30, 2009 - 02:52pm PT
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chongo was the guy in the back.
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Papillon Rendre
climber
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Aug 30, 2009 - 04:47pm PT
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"Ron Kauk Appreciation Thread"
Some stories, whether they are fact or fiction, are better left BITD. We all have episodes from our younger days, that we reflect upon later in life and say "what was I thinking?" This thread should be based upon good deeds as the title implies. I respect and appreciate Ron's commitment to the environment. Three years ago, my son saw his film at the Visitor Center. He was eleven at the time. Since then, he makes every effort to recycle, reduce and reuse, thanks to the words of Ron. Secondly, a very good friend of mine, (not a climber) has lived in the park for 30 + years. Over the years, he became a thirsty soul. He went to Ron's house one night (rather intoxicated) and discussed an issue he had. Shortly thereafter, Ron was at his place of employment for a separate mission. When Ron saw him, he took him aside for a few minutes to discuss his condition. He told my friend that his drinking was a huge negative. Ron was able to discuss it without making my friend feel bad or defensive. My friend was surprised that Ron had taken the time and made the effort with someone who was not a member of the climbing tribe. Thank you Ron for the positive impact on two loved one's of mine.
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mastadon
Trad climber
quaking has-been
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Aug 30, 2009 - 09:45pm PT
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jghedge- I heard the same story from the same horse's mouth shortly after the incident happened so all you naysayers that say, "Gosh, I've never met Ron but...." or "Gee, Ron seems like such a nice guy he'd never....." are full of s#it. If you're going to "Appreciate" someone for what they are, "Appreciate" them for all they are, otherwise STFU.
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cintune
climber
the Moon and Antarctica
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Aug 30, 2009 - 09:50pm PT
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Headed for the jeebus thread, but seems more appropriate here.
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corniss chopper
Mountain climber
san jose, ca
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Aug 30, 2009 - 10:04pm PT
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Long ago we had just locked the car an were about to cross the road and go up the snow slope above the outlet of Ellery Lake -(early season)-
when (I think its) Ron comes jogging around the corner, up the road (training).
He gave us 'the' look. We returned 'it' in kind.
Then he called back over his shoulder 'be careful!'
Still remember that. A climbing god wishing me well.
Yes.
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Fuzzywuzzy
climber
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Aug 30, 2009 - 10:18pm PT
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The log rolling story is flat out TRUE. Those that know were there (around). So who knows - knows. Those who don't will never understand. You had to be there. We keep trying to throw in a bit of spiced reality - get it??
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Largo
Sport climber
The Big Wide Open Face
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Aug 31, 2009 - 12:25am PT
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In Aug. or early Sep. of '78, Ron, Bridwell, Schmitz and I got caught on Watkins during a heat wave and suffered horribly after days on the wall during an FA. I wish I had the pics of Ron on top. He was so sun burned he looked like a tomato. Tough dude, Ron K.
JL
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hoipolloi
climber
A friends backyard with the neighbors wifi
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Aug 31, 2009 - 12:49am PT
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What route were you guys doing Largo? I have been eying some of those forgotten but fantastic lines over there for a season or two now. Maybe in the spring I will be making my way over that way...
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Fuzzywuzzy
climber
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Aug 31, 2009 - 03:01pm PT
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"Ron's bar mitzvah" - Now that is funny.
Hey, the log roll/chase occurred over on the Eastside. No Wanted Posters had been up in the local PO's yet!!!
Re-reading my post I admit it was a bit "forceful". Hell, RK won't be around or able to defend himself when sainthood is bestowed upon him! So, a few skeletons remind us that Ron is also a "colorful" man. Holding him up as an icon or as an example of what can be achieved is sensible. The tales are there to remind us that we are human - you, me, Ron, Largo, Royal, etc., and that life has its twist and turns.
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CAMNOTCLIMB
Trad climber
novato ca
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Aug 31, 2009 - 04:33pm PT
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Ron can climb and looks good in photos, so says my wife...
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Jaybro
Social climber
Wolf City, Wyoming
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Aug 31, 2009 - 07:07pm PT
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"arrested for defrauding an innkeeper"
I'm saving that one...
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Sara Matisse
Mountain climber
Los Angeles, CA
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Sep 16, 2009 - 11:44am PT
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Beautiful.
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Mason
Trad climber
Yay Area
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Apr 28, 2010 - 01:55am PT
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We met Ron Kauk last weekend in the Valley. I have to say that the conversation we had with him has definitely given me a greater understanding of, and respect for, the Stonemasters.
Very cool guy and very smart and enlightened as well.
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hoipolloi
climber
A friends backyard with the neighbors wifi
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Apr 28, 2010 - 02:14am PT
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This thread needs more pictures!
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Klimmer
Mountain climber
San Diego
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Aug 23, 2010 - 11:27pm PT
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The last night of my California Classic Tour Camping Trip with my family, we caught Ron's show at the Yosemite Theater behind the main visitor center in The Valley.
Simply awesome. Ron is a very good speaker. Up-thread WBraun said it perfectly. Ron is very deep and sincere. Truly hooked into the spirit of the natural world around him and that comes through very clear. He is also funny. He has a great casual easy way with the audience. He gives his show each Friday and Saturday nights, on-going I assume for the season. My family and I enjoyed it very much. I bought a copy of his book and DVD. Got to ask 2 questions after the show, got my book autographed, and talked about meeting him at Woodson in '86 a few days before the contest and being led around by Mr. Woodson himself, Rick Pickett. Posted about that earlier way up thread. Got to shake his hand after so many years of first meeting him.
You should not miss his show when in the Valley. I highly recommend it.
Spirit of the Rock
http://www.amazon.com/Spirit-Rock-Ron-Kauk/dp/1586851500/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1282617937&sr=8-1
The title of his show is the same as the DVD. Very well made. Awesome in fact. A spiritual journey about Ron's connection to the natural world around him through climbing. We saw it in HD DVD or Blue-Ray in the theater. Seems that Ron has a deep spiritual connection to the natural world and a very deep respect for Native North American ways and culture. He talks about the spirit of the water, the earth, the rock, the plants and the animals.
I think I could get away with showing the film to my Earth Sciecne class when we talk about our connection to the natural world around us and how the Earth sustains us. Perhaps during the unit on conservation and environmentlism. It is a very deep spiritual film on many levels.
Return to Balance: A Climber's Journey
http://www.amazon.com/Return-Balance-Climbers-Ron-Kauk/dp/B000OU9XCW/ref=sr_1_2?ie=UTF8&s=dvd&qid=1282617937&sr=8-2
Great guy.
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Sir loin of leisure...
Trad climber
I'm from Idaho..bitch
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Aug 23, 2010 - 11:35pm PT
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ron was someone I admired greatly..as a climber of course but more as a person...
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Dr.Sprock
Boulder climber
I'm James Brown, Bi-atch!
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Aug 23, 2010 - 11:42pm PT
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who wants to do the snake dike with Ron?
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Shack
Big Wall climber
Reno NV
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Aug 24, 2010 - 12:39am PT
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I first met Ron briefly in like '84? while in Yosemite on a climbing trip as he was taking some clients out climbing.
A couple years later on an extended Valey trip, we arrived late in the afternoon, found our spot in C4, setup out tents, ate and crashed out.
Keep in mind this was early pre-season, so we didn't have to pay yet etc.
So in the morning when I wake up, I see Ron climbing out of the tent 20 feet away. We are camped in the same site. We started talking and he proceeded to tell me how Jerry Moffat is in the other tent.
Ron and Jerry both sort of took me under their wings and showed me the ropes, so to speak. I don't know how many times that summer, they tried to help me get Midnight Lighning....never did do it though.
Ron helped me out alot that summer, introduced me to alot of people,
gave me rides, took me bouldering and climbing, hooked me up at the Cafe
etc.
He was a really nice guy to me and didn't care that I couldn't climb 5.12 or whatever.
I did personally witness him get chased by a Rent-a-Ranger for first trying to get gas out of the locked pumps at the old gas station by C4 and then trying to syphon gas out of a VW bug in the C4 parking lot!
He just ran off into the woods laughing! Hahaha!
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Wonder
climber
WA
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Aug 24, 2010 - 01:12am PT
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oh yeah thats the man,
forget the licra bitches, slap on the levis & send it.
Fkn the nicest guy ever
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ß Î Ø T Ç H
climber
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Aug 24, 2010 - 01:12am PT
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Can't argue with his sincerity and acomplishments , just kinda felt like he was being shoved down our throat with all the media coverage .
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G_Gnome
Trad climber
In the mountains... somewhere...
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Aug 24, 2010 - 02:10am PT
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Ron just continues to become a nicer and nicer guy as the years go by.
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Ihateplastic
Trad climber
It ain't El Cap, Oregon
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Aug 24, 2010 - 04:25am PT
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Man! As soon as I read the words "drainage ditch" I winced. Too many late night stumbles into that one!
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TrundleBum
Trad climber
Las Vegas
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Aug 24, 2010 - 04:07pm PT
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I bumped into him a couple nights ago outside Curry Village.
Not being able to help myself and knowing what it does to a parent when you 'talk up' their kids...
I told'm I just took up snow boarding year before last and this past was my first full, committed season. I spoke about developing (style) heroes when you take on a new sport/pursuit. I mentioned that when it comes to shredding with style and grace that Lonnie was my all time hero amongst the pro all-mountain riders. Which was by no means lip service.
I see a lot of the 'ole Lopez at Pipe kind'a style under fire when I watch vid's of Lonnie.
yah should'a seen the dad in him light up !
G_Gnome:
Ron just continues to become a nicer and nicer guy as the years go by.
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Tork
climber
Yosemite
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Apr 22, 2011 - 10:26am PT
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Ron is great, always has a good word to say. He loves the park and cares about people. I enjoy bumping into him at the Cookie. And watching him climb...so smooth.
Jeff
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Anastasia
climber
hanging from an ice pic and missing my mama.
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Apr 22, 2011 - 10:32am PT
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Great guy, period.
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hossjulia
Social climber
Eastside
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Apr 22, 2011 - 11:28am PT
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I'll chime in. He's a great guy, fun to talk to and just a nice human being.
Lucy is one of my neighbors on the lake. Great lady involved in the community and doing a good job raising her boys. I'm a Lonnie fan on facebook just so I can see all the awesome places he gets to go and ride.
I love seeing Ron & Lonnie at TPR.
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karodrinker
Trad climber
San Jose, CA
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Apr 22, 2011 - 02:34pm PT
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Ron is great, his message about connectivity to nature is one I try to remember when the city starts driving me crazy. This man is a true role model, giving back with his Sacred Rok program, living simply, raising good kids and climbing hard! Keep it up Ron!
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Robb
Social climber
The other "Magic City on the Plains"
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Apr 22, 2011 - 03:38pm PT
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Hey Ron,
Thanks again for being such a class act gentleman towards my wife when she worked at the Sweet Shop.
Robb
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tom Carter
Social climber
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Apr 23, 2011 - 12:19pm PT
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RK at the stumps 1987?
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frog-e
Trad climber
Imperial Beach California
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Apr 23, 2011 - 12:39pm PT
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Kauk could've quit climbing when Fire's came out,
And he'd still be one of the best ever. And yes, indeed,
A super nice guy and afine all star human being.
Here's to Ron Kauk! Freaking bad -ass.
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o-man
Trad climber
Paia,Maui,HI
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Apr 24, 2011 - 03:40pm PT
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I shot this photo of Ron On top of Angels Landing in Zion.
I have spent a bit of time with Ron on several occasions over the years. It's very rewarding to be in the presence of and be treated as a friend and equal by one of my personal heroes!
Much Aloha to Ron and his cause!
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enjoimx
Trad climber
Kirkwood, CA
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Apr 24, 2011 - 06:12pm PT
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I try to drink out of Fern Springs as often as possible ;)
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dfrost7
climber
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Apr 24, 2011 - 07:14pm PT
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Thanks for being such a cool person. You always took time to make my kids and me feel really welcome. You have a wonderfully kind heart, Ron. So nice to know time has only given you pollish!
(I had to check my spelling there - at first I spelled "polish"!)
Laurie
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tom Carter
Social climber
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May 19, 2011 - 02:46pm PT
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Not my shot = Pinky?
Pretty cool.
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Anastasia
climber
hanging from an ice pick and missing my mama.
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May 19, 2011 - 02:52pm PT
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Heck, Ron Kauk is the man Tom Cruise tries to act/be like...
The man has done good.
:)AFS
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tom Carter
Social climber
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May 28, 2011 - 06:42pm PT
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Bumping Bundy!
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cms
climber
toyota, tacoma
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May 28, 2011 - 08:03pm PT
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Ive met Ron in toulumne, the valley and at castle rock sp. All three times he was most humble and happy. Not sure how he does it but whatever he is doing he is doing it right.
Hell of a climber to boot.
Thanks Ron.
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tinker b
climber
the commonwealth
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May 29, 2011 - 12:29am PT
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my favorite video of ron is in stone masters 1 when he has the cowboy boots on the slab.
on a more serious note...
i can't put into words my appreciation for ron and his role in our community.
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Truthdweller
Trad climber
San Diego, CA
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May 29, 2011 - 02:39am PT
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Belayed me on "The Cave" at Mt. Woodson in '86 a few days before the contest... put an ear to ear grin on a twenty four year old's face back then!
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Truthdweller
Trad climber
San Diego, CA
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May 29, 2011 - 05:11am PT
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Ron Kauk at the 1986 Mt. Woodson Bouldering Contest...
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ryankelly
Trad climber
el portal
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May 29, 2011 - 12:18pm PT
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bump for Ron, he is beyond cool
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Outdoorvangelist
Trad climber
San Juan Capistrano, CA
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May 29, 2011 - 01:07pm PT
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Got to spend some time with Ron on his infrequent A16 tours and on a fun Ford commercial in '00-01 sometime... lucky me.
Check out this 5 min vid, featuring Ron at 2:35 or so... from the Snowbird comp in 88 http://youtu.be/iwIemWO9JU0
keep on rocking it Ron, and hope to see you at OR again in August.
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matty
Trad climber
under the sea
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May 29, 2011 - 01:23pm PT
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^^^^love those socks!
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drljefe
climber
El Presidio San Augustin del Tucson
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May 29, 2011 - 01:59pm PT
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Right when I was getting into climbing, at age 17, my Mom gave me Galen Rowell's book "The Art of Adventure".
The photos of Ron Kauk on Astroman were mind blowing to me and fueled my drive to become a climber.
Still haven't done Astroman but when I climbed Figures on a Landscape, one of the other stand-out images from that book, I thought about Ron Kauk and how I was well on my way to my goal.
Ron embodies what I admire in a human and in a climber- soft spoken, environmental ethic, passionate.
He continues to inspire me, 24 years after getting that book as a gift.
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Chief
climber
The NW edge of The Hudson Bay
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May 29, 2011 - 11:01pm PT
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Bump for Kauk,
He and Werner were two of the more welcoming Valley regulars when we first showed up as wide eyed noobs back in the seventies.
Ron's been an inspiration on and off the rock ever since and he continues to move across the stone and through life with the same enviable grace.
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Truthdweller
Trad climber
San Diego, CA
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Another of Ron on the Lie Detector at the '86 contest...
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2 l l
Sport climber
Rancho Verga, CA
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The belay sure is pulling the rope tight.
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CF
climber
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tm store 8/31/00 7:23 pm
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CF
climber
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mouse from merced
Trad climber
merced, california
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May 12, 2012 - 04:35am PT
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So that's chappy, eh? All these years I was thinking more like, eh, Tom Crow. I mean Cruise. :)
blinded by the light....
Where in hell but the Taco?
Could ya still see a jock o
The vaunted seventies, yeah.
I want to know right now...
Write us a song, Mars. Sing it for Klemens.
Thou shalt not warble, thee must sing.--the Bird King
edit: "Drunk again, been drinkin Gordon's gin" and got my Chappies confused with the Worralies. That was a Elvin Bishop line, the gin. But write us a bleeping song. About some Vendetta, some Avenging Angel, some nightmare. Anyone climbed like you could make a song. It's 5 f*#king 2.
I'm glad you like it in California. Ohio doesn't deserve you.
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mouse from merced
Trad climber
merced, california
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May 12, 2012 - 04:37am PT
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Personal fave:
TNF Catalog cover, Spring 1985.
Kaukulator.
The Thing About Ron (THAR)--
He always looks so good from a distance, even. Like that cover on TNF's catalog. Or on the cover of Mountain 138 in Tuolumne. It is just FN spooky.
"I never met 'im, but 'is nyme's a rall bonzer."--drunken Ozzy climber in praise of R Ron.
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Don Lauria
Trad climber
Bishop, CA
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May 25, 2012 - 01:30am PT
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I once complimented Ron on his ability to emulate native American discourse.
Ooops!
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Wayno
Big Wall climber
Seattle, WA
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May 25, 2012 - 01:32am PT
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^^^^
That's funny, Don. What was his reply or was there one?
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Don Lauria
Trad climber
Bishop, CA
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May 25, 2012 - 02:09am PT
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Wayno,
He accepted my comment - don't know what he was thinking - f%$king idiot, I am a native American, maybe. I, by the way, am 1/32 Cherokee.
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A5scott
Trad climber
Chicago
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May 25, 2012 - 02:58pm PT
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Great thread. Ron has always been one of my favorite climbers and someone that I look to as an example of strength of spirit, character and natural climbing ability.
scott
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Patrick Sawyer
climber
Originally California now Ireland
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May 25, 2012 - 03:46pm PT
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Nice thread. However, I do not need a thread (no dig at the OP) to convey how much a gentleman that Ron has always been to me the few times we have crossed paths. Truly, a sincere human, now if his climbing...
...Just joking. I last saw Ron on a winter's day in Lee Vining Canyon, circa 1976. We just passed and said hellos. I have never climbed with him, partied in C4 a couple of times with him, but always a decent chap. One of the best I have come across. And I believe a Northern Californian like myself. That can't be so bad.
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survival
Big Wall climber
Terrapin Station
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May 25, 2012 - 04:02pm PT
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I was a n00b in the valley. 1977 I think.
I met Ron and Bridwell in El Cap meadow, at night, and we sat there and talked. Luckily I mostly kept my mouth shut and listened.
I was scared and blown away at the same time.
The numerous chats I've had with Ron over the years, he was always awesome.
Never talked down to us.
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Relic
Social climber
Vancouver, BC
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May 25, 2012 - 05:33pm PT
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My buddy and I were messing around on Midnight Lightning one rest day in C4. Not getting much of anywhere on it, a hobbling figure emerged from the forest. It was Ron Kauk, with a full on leg cast and crutches! He came over to greet us and watch us flail on it. He coached me gracefully through the first few moves or so. Such a nice guy. I asked him what happened to his leg. Apparently some tourist was driving the wrong direction on the loop road and nailed him on his bike. I was amazed that some idiot touron could take down the mighty Kauk!
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Marlow
Sport climber
OSLO
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Mar 10, 2013 - 02:17pm PT
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Ron Kauk presented in Vertical April 1992:
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dickcilley
Social climber
Wisteria Ln.
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Mar 11, 2013 - 08:40am PT
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Ha ha.Thats me on the bike.It´s harder to be roped than to rope someone.Great friend.
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bob
climber
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Mar 11, 2013 - 12:13pm PT
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Two days ago:
"Hey Bob." says Ron
"Yeah?" says I.
"Katie thought you were Eliza up on Catchy Corner when we were looking up from the parking area." says Ron with a genuine giggle.
That was a pretty funny moment.
At least from afar, I know I might look like a beautiful woman climbing. I hope for other folks that think the same of me from afar (that I'm a woman) aren't too bummed when they find out I'm in fact, a dude.
Bob J's funny moment
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