FALL ON ROCK, INADEQUATE PROTECTION

Colorado, Rocky Mountain National Park, Notchtop

On July 6 at 1600, Ulrich Moderl (22) of Austria took a 15 meter fall from the 5.9 crux pitch of the South Ridge on Notchtop. Moderl sustained a fractured right ankle and pain in his right knee and back. Martin Pircher, Moderl’s partner, effected an evacuation and carried Moderl piggyback to the trailhead. (Source: Rocky Mountain National Park Rangers)

Analysis

Running out long alpine pitches with little or no protection increases the chance of injury in the event of a fall. Fortunately Moderl’s partner was able to perform an efficient rescue. What can never be understated in the decision for a party to perform a self-rescue is the need for a thorough medical survey. Had the pain in Moderl’s back been due to a fractured vertebrae, the three mile piggyback ride could have turned him into a paraplegic. (Source: Rocky Mountain National Park Rangers)