This afternoon Danny Cattell fired off an impressive new line running parallel to Rock Atrocity in Parisella’s Cave. Louis Armstrong V12/Font 8a+ starts at the Rock Atrocity diagonal jug, but immediately swerves off right with a violent crossover move to reach some undercuts, which in turn allow a redpoint crux slap out to the Lou Ferrino ramp to be made. A few more punishing moves lead up to the Rock Atrocity finishing slot.

The suggested grade for this truly brutal and intense problem is surprisingly conservative, especially if you consider that Danny spent 6 sessions (over the last month or so) trying the line. Judging by the relative ease that he has completed other North Wales test pieces such as Mr Fantastic V12/Font 8a+ and Pool of Bethesda V12/Font 8a+, he is clearly on form at the moment. Danny made the following comments: “I can’t really give it 8b as I’ve never climbed that grade. I’m sticking with 8a+.” Fair enough, and I suppose it is up to others to confirm or counter the grade assessment.

Danny’s brother, Sam, had previously tried the line. Sam had been very close to doing it at one point, but was forced to abandon it as a result of a finger injury.

Chris Doyle has put together a film showing both the first ascent by Danny and some historical footage of Sam trying the line a few years ago. Click on the link below to view it.

Relevant links:
      Louis Armstrong film