Topic

After some discussion it was decided to pack for the big rift route as Damian had not done it before & I would not fit down the 'ammered Hole.
After a bit of a faff we found the cave and descended the first few pitches with Damian rigging.
Last time Paul & I had not made it to the third pitch. After the second pitch I started to remember why.
The thin team (Damian, Rich & Phil) had gradually made their way to the front with most of the bags. While the less thin team (Paul, Lukasz & Dave) were getting slowly left behind.
At the foot of the third pitch, there was an awkward section which I had a couple of goes at before my refusal. Paul did likewise, getting a bit further but not liking the look of the way on. Lukasz got though on his third attempt.
I believe Lukasz descended the fourth pitch but did not go much further.
The thin team got to the end of the big rift series, declaring that the cave on that route had little of merit below stal chamber.
Mixed fun levels & a long trip for Lukasz (who waited for the thin team) & the thin team.
Time in the cave was about 6h30.

Well done, Dave. 'Twas great to get back underground on a "proper" trip after some time away!

You mentioned that we said there was little of merit below Stal Chamber. There is certainly little of merit beyond the 7th pitch (apart from an impressively deep rift), but Fools' Paradise, the section of passage beyond Stal Chamber, is exceptional. Also, the section of passage between the 'Ammered 'Ole and the 7th pitch is well worth a visit with a beautiful false floor and pools with crystal-clear water.

Having previously done the Big Pitch route several times, I can definitely confirm the Big Rift route is substantially more "engaging" (aka challenging!) ... the time back out was definitely much longer than the time in with several hairy moments en route.

A great trip in a great cave - thanks to the "thin team" and sorry to everyone for walking away from the entrance on the way there !

Damian, can I copy your reply to facebook?

No problem at all, Dave.