pain


Climbing is far more than muscle. If it is, I have a huge mountain to climb. Sure it takes strength to be a solid climber. To hold tight on tiny crimps or mantle over a looming ledge. But you have to have heart. You have to want it so bad you will scream in the face of pending defeat. You can not let the evils of the mountain win. You have to take control of what your being offered. make the mountain yours. Dance with it, hold it, connect. Sure it’s a gamble most are not willing to take. The risks are high. Injury in time is for certain. But you have to decide if it’s worth it?

The answer is yes!!!

Girl vs. Wild,

Jacquelyn Farris

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A new feeling of pure bliss. That is what I have found in climbing. When I was in college I climbed off and on, but never had a steady climbing partner to progress with. I can not even begin to explain the pure feeling of euphoric joy I get from climbing a hard route. Each hand placement and foot hold closer to the top. When it would be so easy to give in and only do half the route, but comrades are at the bottom reminding me that “I can own this route in just a few feet” and that “I have what it takes to take it.” When you get to the top of something that seemed so impossible it is by far the best feeling ever. Climb on!

Girl vs. Wild,

Jacquelyn Farris
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I finally got outside and it was everything I hoped for, and more. This past weekend my climbing buddy and I hit the rocks in the Wichita Wildlife Refuge. It was epic. Everything about it was great. The weather was sunny and warm. The people were kind, and the conversation was cheerful and light. Perfect climbing!!!

My first line of the day was a 5.9c on Echo Dome in Charons Garden. My hands bled everywhere, but I focused deep through the distractions and pushed on. I was so ecstatic when I reached the top. It’s by far the best feeling to stare it down until you get it. With new friends, success, and energy high we headed off to Lower Mt. Scott for more climbing adventures. It was amazing!!!

I have to admit I did love being the only girl, and not just the only girl, but not bad either. It’s nice when I can surprise the boys. We climbed all day and I loved every line. My hands are scabbed and blistered, but I feel successful.

Tonight is a practice night. Rocktown here I come.

Girl vs. Wild,

Jacquelyn Farris

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This past Saturday I put my brave face on and conquered a fear. A big fear. This past August I destroyed my shoulder, and lucky me had to have it reconstructed. Basically, there was nothing holding it in socket. Yes, sounds fun doesn’t it? It has been six months of rehab, 3 days week and being so cautious. Well my version of cautious, which I am sure for most people is border line danger. But with an overwhelming amount of fear I went climbing at Rocktown in downtown OKC.

My first route scared the life out of me. Each pull and grab I did shaking with fear of pulling my shoulder out and heading back to my home away from home, McBride Bone and Joint. I know I have a problem when the staff and I are on first name basis. Hey, when you visit as often as I have they become family.

But I did it. A friend said I had the look my eye. The lines were talking to me. Begging me to attack and I did. I loved it. I made those lines mine. It was such a great feeling, pain and all. My little paws are scabbed and bloody, but ready for more. I am off the injured list and am eager to climb!

Girl vs. Wild,

Jacquelyn Farris

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