Hangdog Days: Conflict, Change, and the Race for 5.14

Hangdog Days:  Conflict, Change, and the Race for 5.14

Hangdog Days published by Mountaineers Books chronicles the era when rock climbing exploded in popularity, attracting a new generation of talented climbers eager to reach new heights via harder routes and faster ascents. This contentious, often humorous period gave rise to sport climbing, climbing gyms, and competitive climbing indelibly changing the culture of the sport, transforming it into what we know today.

One of those young climbers, writer and photographer Jeff Smoot, traces the development over time of traditional climbing “rules,” enforced first through peer pressure, then later through intimidation and sabotage. In the late ’70s, several climbers began introducing new tricks including “hangdogging”— hanging on gear to practice moves— considered cheating by the old guard.

As more climbers broke ranks with traditional style, this new gymnastic approach pushed the limits of climbing from 5.12 to 5.13. When French climber Jean-Baptiste Tribout ascended the 5.14a To Bolt or Not to Be at Smith Rock in 1986, he broke a previously thought impenetrable barrier. John Bachar, Todd Skinner, Ray Jardine, Lynn Hill, Mark Hudon, Tony Yaniro, Alan Watts, and others star in this lively period of the sport. Join us as Jeff presents a fascinating slide show of vintage images and personal stories, alongside the historical events of the era. 

Doors - 6:00pm
Show Starts - 7:00pm

General Admission - $7
At the Door - $7

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