Mike Doyle goes bouldering...

For the last few months Mike Doyle left his rope in the van and spent his time bouldering in the likes of Hueco and Bishop. 

Although Mike likes to play down his bouldering ability it’s no surprise that he’s made some impressive ascents, as it’s safe to say you can’t onsight 14A and redpoint 14C on technique and good looks alone.

Here are a few pictures and a report from Mike..

Mike Doyle - The Mandala               photo: Mike Doyle collection

“Audrey and I spent almost a month in Hueco and while I was there I actually got used to holding onto small holds and having to take my body weight with my upper body. While in Hueco I managed to tick off some classic problems such as Martini Right (V12), Martini Left (V10), Luthor (V12), and a few other V11s and V10s. At one point I was doing a V10 or V11 a day near the end. That was pretty rad for a guy who is ecstatic with V9.  We then went to bishop for four days of climbing and while we were there I managed to do The Mandala (V12), a problem that prior to this trip was always a dream. After doing some V12s in Hueco I wanted to try it and surprised myself by actually doing a few moves on my first day. It was cold on my second day and while I linked the crux moves I fell up high, unable to feel the holds. I then rested a day and did it first try the following day. I was psyched!”

Mike Doyle - Shwarer Gustov           photo: Mike Doyle collection

The bouldering is over for now and he's continuing his US climbing tour back on the rope and trying to get back some endurance. For more details on Mike's trip check out his own  website .

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