In reply to Fellover:
> That's not entirely fair in this case is it? It's come out as 9a+ which at the time Gaskins was trying it was very hard. Unlike other Gaskins routes/boulders there are actually reliable eyewitnesses who saw him get pretty high on Brandenburg Gate.
I have heard the same over the years but I've never been able to ascertain who these eye witnesses were. Any ideas?
The thing is. Gaskins was clearly a good climber. But was he Shadowplay/Violent New Breed/Brandenburg good? Over the years I've wanted so much to believe it's all true. But following 'the' interview and then Dan Varian's in depth and reasoned thoughts on UKB... I have to say I don't believe it.
The only thing I can add is Pete Oxley telling me he watched Gaskins make 'good progress' on the project that became Alcatraz (at Coastguard) 'in the rain'. Definitely worth noting. But given that's 8b and miles off Brandenburg et al despite the rain ... it's not particularly useful beyond a note.
Anyway, end Gaskins hijack!
EDIT: I personally can't fault his naming though. Every problem/route of his has an awesome name!
Post edited at 12:16