James Lillie has climbed the immaculate prow project on the Thumb Boulder above Gerlan in Bethesda. The boulder was originally developed in 2007; however the line of Chop Saw No. 2 remained unclimbed, despite attention from various local wads. Although dogged by injury over recent years James kept his focus firmly locked on this stunning prize, hoping that one day it would go down:

“I found the boulder close to 4 years ago now, and have been trying the prow/arete off and on since then. It really means a lot for me, having come back from the thumb injury [James lost the top half of his left thumb in a chop saw accident – Ed.], and then dislocating my shoulder. It is one of the hardest problems I’ve tried and done - I was in doubt that I would ever send it!”

As for the grade, James was uncertain:

“I can’t really put a solid grade on it, but it’s no easier than 7C, maybe 7C+? Either way it’s a 3 star problem, the landing is good, the style and nature are pure bouldering! For me it marks a reward for training after injury, and coming back stronger than ever!”

Relevant links:
      2007 Thumb Boulder news item