Varian Repeats Little Women

Written by LakesBloc Friday, 02 January 2009 00:00

After numerous sessions, the setback of a finger injury and the usual battle against the British weather, Dan Varian has succeeded where many have previously failed, with a repeat of the hardcore Kentmere and Lakeland test piece Little Women. Situated on the rear of the Giant Stone at Little Font, this problem was originally claimed by Si O'Conor, as part of his hoaxing campaign a few years back and originally given the grade of 8a/V11. The line was subsequently climbed (the first ascent) by John Gaskins around 2003, who true to form left the grade debate to others.

Since John's send, the problem has seen attention from the likes of Ian Vickers, Gaz Parry, Jordan Buys and the perennially inform Mick Adams, all of whom have seen their best efforts rebuffed by this obviously under-graded line. Dan has yet to comment on the grade but it is obvious, from the evidence so far, that Little Women must be around the 8b/V13 mark, if not harder?

Image right: Dan on the last few moves of Little Women (8b/V13ish).