FALLING ROCK, FALL ON ROCK

British Columbia, Rocky Mountains, Takakkaw Falls

On July 8, 1988, a field test was being held for Association of Canadian Mountain Guides endorsement. The climb was on the route nearest the falls on the left side. One of the candidates, Nicola, was leading a rope of three. She placed a # 11/2 Friend and started a new pitch. As she was climbing over a large (desk-sized) flake, the flake gave way, fell, and pulled the Friend. The climber fell 15 meters and landed on a ledge. The other two members of the rope team narrowly missed being struck by falling boulders and the flake.

Nicola was unconscious for about five minutes. Other injuries were a bruised hip, a scalp and forearm lacerations. The second rope team was summoned immediately. One of the climbers went down for help, while the remaining four assisted the injured climber across and down the face. She was able to assist in her descent, and all went well without the requirement for an outside rescue. (Source: H. R. Abbott, Yoho National Park Warden Service)

Analysis

Nicola was an avid rock climber, and had a wide range of experience in the Rockies. The flake that caused the fall also took out her protection. (Source: H. R. Abbott, Yoho National Park Warden Service)