Spirit of the West 5.14a

• ME IN THREE • Spirit of the West is a sport climb situated in Paradise Valley, just north of Squamish. It is a route that I hold near and dear to my heart. My husband, Tom, established it in 2015. I was in love with it before I even tried it. It is a 35m route of clean, beautiful granite in one of the most beautiful places in the world. The climbing was challenging for me. Long, reachy, powerful movement with poor rests in between. I had sent multiple 5.14a's prior to this, but not one of them put up such a challenge. I projected Spirit solely for 3 seasons, putting in countless days on the route. I ended each season feeling defeated but determined. I finally sent in October of 2018, with a north wind blowing and excellent friends cheering me on. For me, it's what climbing is all about. Putting in the time, trying your hardest, good vibes and once in a while, a damn good send. Climber: @VikkiW Photo: Colette McInerney