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Half Dome a Historic Duel

   A climb up the face of Half Dome on September 4th 2001

Paraplegic Climber Mark Wellman Prepares For
10-Year Anniversary Ascent Of Yosemite's Half Dome

 

Wellman, adventure sports enthusiast, plans to scale the treacherous vertical face of Half Dome, in Yosemite, California, using only arm-power in an effort to demonstrate the advancement in technology for the disabled.

On September 4, 2001, paraplegic adventure athlete, Mark Wellman, along with long-time climbing partner Mike Corbett will begin their second ascent of the famous monolith in Yosemite National Park, Half Dome. The first ascent, successfully completed ten years ago in 1991, took the climbers 13 days. It was the 20th actual ascent of the sheer altering Tis-sa-ack route, but was the first paraplegic ascent.

summit.jpg (19947 bytes)

Fighting a vicious combination of sleet, electrical storms and snow, the anticipated 7-day adventure took 13 days. In one bold stroke, Wellman broke through centuries of barriers in public perception and within the disabled community. His climb threw down a challenge to the world. Just how far and how bravely can the disabled push the limits of human ability?

The climb is not only a personal challenge for Mark, 41, but it highlights the achievements of all people with disabilities. " I like to find new ways to motivate people, disabled or not. My dedication to the sport of climbing and commitment to other athletes with disabilities, fuels my own passionate drive," says Wellman.

Wellman's long time climbing partner is Mike Corbett, age 47 and veteran of over 60 ascents of El Capitan and Half Dome. The special adaptive climbing equipment that Wellman will be using, was originally designed by the two climbers, and will allow Wellman to ascend the rope by doing pull-ups six inches at a time. The anticipated eight-day climb will begin on September 4 ­ reaching the summit on September 12.  Wellman will depart from the Yosemite Valley Stables, following the Half Dome Direct Route, hauling approximately 250 pound of gear and provisions.   


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