Comments for A Mudworm's Thoughts

Comment on Climbing: My Favorite Rappel Knot — Figure 9 (video) by mudworm

mudworm — Mon, 21 May 2012 17:20:34 +0000

Hi Preston, thanks for the discussion. To clarify, the Figure 9 knot shown in my video is used for rappel. I like it, but personally feel very comfortable with the Euro Death knot as well for its simplicity. On a long multi-pitch rappel, speed is important, and follow-through knots have a tendency to catch on ledges due to their profiles. I can't see how any of these knots would fail in a rappel if the climbers pay attention and exercise due diligence. In the end, it all boils down to what you and your partner feel most comfortable with out there on the cliff.

Comment on Climbing: My Favorite Rappel Knot — Figure 9 (video) by Preston

Preston — Mon, 21 May 2012 02:57:52 +0000

So, I have researched the figure 9 and it always seems to come out on top compared to most knots, even the figure 8, but I noticed in your example you actually tied the two ropes and formed what would be considered an abnormal figure 9. I have never seen it tested in this configuration. I've read about the figure 8 abnormal failing, due to the stress points causing the knot to unravel, yes you could tie off the ends to secure them and prevent the unraveling, which is a good habit. Also, why not tie it as a figure 9 follow through? this woud put the ropes in-line and the stress would be distributed through the knot and not on two single points as in your example.

Comment on 2012 Henry Coe Spring Classic by mudworm

mudworm — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 07:07:42 +0000

I did LOL. You are such a climbing snob!

Comment on 2012 Henry Coe Spring Classic by Alison Chaiken

Alison Chaiken — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 07:03:37 +0000

Actually Mei, you'll laugh, but as a true LKHC, the only part of Tierra Bella I will ride myself is the Henry Coe Hill Climb. The rest is too boring!

Comment on 2012 Henry Coe Spring Classic by mudworm

mudworm — Tue, 10 Apr 2012 06:54:12 +0000

Hi Alison, thank you! You should check out the complete MTBR thread because there are many excellent photos, videos, and stories there, and I think you'll like them. Oh, "the joke" was explained on Mud 'n Crud (link). I saw the Tierra Bella workers' pre-ride on my way to Coe, and you'll be on the same route this Saturday. Hope you get great weather and have a helluva fun time!

Comment on 2012 Henry Coe Spring Classic by Alison Chaiken

Alison Chaiken — Mon, 09 Apr 2012 05:00:31 +0000

Amazing photos as always, Mei. I feel like I was there! I'm going to climb Coe next Saturday, on the wussy pavement, but from the Valley.

Comment on Well… RA (Rheumatoid Arthritis)… or NOT? by mudworm

mudworm — Tue, 21 Feb 2012 18:22:17 +0000

I read this article recently: Discover which foods and chemical additives cause arthritis inflammation, gout and fibromyalgia pain. Since I'm trying to avoid another episode of what I described in this post , I want to keep the article for reference, so I'm putting it in a comment. In case the article disappears one day, the main foods to watch out for are: Nightshade Vegetables (tomatoes, peppers, white potatoes, and eggplant), Purine-laden Proteins (I don't want to give up red meat though), Wheat and Gluten, Trans Fats, MSG and Artificial Sweeteners.

Comment on MTB: Henry Coe Hunting Hollow to Middle Ridge and back by Christin

Christin — Mon, 20 Feb 2012 18:32:30 +0000

It was nice meeting you too! :) I hope we run into each other again soon!

Comment on MTB: What a fun ride — 2010 Tour de Penisula (again) by mudworm

mudworm — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 18:37:22 +0000

Hi Eamonn, thanks for the comment. Yeah, even though I finished the ride the first time, I was left with the feeling of defeat, so I had to go back and do it again — with a different plan. Glad that it worked out. If I remember right, etuck on MTBR is also into long rides. As Skyline35 used to (or still) say in his signature: long live long rides!

Comment on MTB: What a fun ride — 2010 Tour de Penisula (again) by Eamonn

Eamonn — Fri, 03 Feb 2012 00:28:06 +0000

This is a really incredible ride and impressive you loaded up and did it a second time after a tough first outing. I'd love to do some more south bay exploring! Eamonn – (etuck on MTBR)