Seize The Day (26) at Duck Reach had its first complete trad ascent yesterday by Isaac Lethborg. The ascent is significant considering the history of the route, its stature as probably the best line in the Gorge, and its boldness. Mick McHugh aided the route for the first ascent in 1971. Simon Parsons did the first free ascent in 1986 and at the time it was the hardest route in the state. Simon used 3 bolts and natural gear. Later the route was retrobolted with 7 bolts and turned into a sport route. Isaac skipped all the bolts and placed what he called `bomber' gear to the roof. He placed a wire on the crux headwall, only to have it fall out as he climbed past, thus creating a 5m run-out to the anchors, pretty bold on grade 26 moves. Well done to Isaac on a great lead.

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