A DISCOVERY AMONG FRIENDS
Kevin Richard, a young alpinist from the region, discovered outdoor climbing at 18 on the Dalle de l’Amône. A year later, in 2020, he was introduced to high-altitude alpinism and quickly became passionate about it.
Although he does not come from a family of alpinists, he soon built a circle of friends with whom he learned and shared alpine adventures. He points out that it can be difficult to enter the field without an experienced network. Considering training to become a mountain guide, he now enjoys introducing his loved ones to the mountains.
“In alpinism I love the idea of sharing, overcoming an obstacle together, sharing good laughs, and finding support in one another.”
| Can you spot the Dalle de l’Amône that is located above the village of l’Amônaz ? This 400-meter-high dalle rises in front of you and is easily recognizable by its white limestone. Described in the region as mythical, it was first climbed by Michel and Daniel Darbellay in 1952. This route, consisting of 12 fairly long and technical rope pitches, is located in the middle of the slab. |
ALPINISM, THE ART OF COMMITMENT
“For me the summitisquitesecondary; it’s more the line, the aesthetics, and the commitmentthat I enjoy.”
This physical and mental commitment involves managingrisks. Aware of unavoidable dangers like rockfall, Kevin accepts them as part of the discipline. However, he remains very rigorous about everything he can anticipate, such as route planning and physical training.
BETWEEN CLASSIC COURSES AND UNFREQUENTED ITINERARIES
Alpinism is becoming more democratic: lighter and more technical equipment, as well as mobile applications are making the mountains increasingly accessible.
“It’sinteresting and alsodangerous, becauseyou can explore many more engaged places withease.”
Kevin is part of this new generation drawn to iconicpeaks, such as the Petit Clocher du Portalet or the north face of the Grandes Jorasses. He also enjoys less-traveled routes and aspires to what many alpinists dream of: opening new routes and accomplishing what few have achieved.
Picture: Traverse of the Ecandies, 2021 © Kevin Richard
| What does alpine style climbing mean?
Answer on the next board -> |