Mason Earle And The Off Width Pt2 | A Joshua Tree Wide Crack Story | Earle Struggs pt2

Will He Climb The Offwidth Or Leave Defeated? | A Joshua Tree Wide Crack Story | Earle Struggs pt2
Link to Part 1 of this series: • Mason Meets The OFFWID...
All ad revenue from this video will go to fund ME/CFS research.
To learn more about CFS or to donate to research yourself please visit: polybio.org/do...
In the world of rock climbing challenges can come in many forms, but perhaps none are more feared or revered than hard off-widths. Off width rock climbers come in a few specific breeds, it's a fascinating world and Mason Earle is at the top of the game. In the conclusion to this story Mason battles the Hondo off-width crack for two more days in order to finally create a masterpiece of wide crack climbing called "Earle Struggs."
A note on the route's name. Mason is banjo and lute picking fanatic. Earl Scruggs is a famous banjo player. "Earle Struggs" is a portmanteau that Mason had been waiting for years to use on the proper route.
► Subscribe to the channel: bit.ly/30CzxxF
► More first ascent adventures with Mason Earle: bit.ly/3hpyk3H
► I think you would like this video: • Hard Joshua Tree Rock ...
► Follow Mason Earle on Instagram: / mason_earle
► Follow me on Instagram: / giant__rock
● About Giant Rock:
My goal is to entertain you with original rock climbing videos and maybe teach something along the way. Climbing history, first ascent adventures and obscure choss. Based out of Joshua Tree, California.
#rockclimbing #climbing #offwidth #crackclimb #firstascent #tradclimbing #offwidtharmy #joshuatree #hondo #giantrock #climb #tradclimb #peopleareawesome #mountain #amazingpeople #mountains #climber #masonearle #athlete #ascent #giantrock #colegibson #losangeles #joshuatreenationalpark #bouldering

[@jeccmatrix]

The last 30 seconds was a gut-punch. More power to Mason.

[@WideBoyz]

Cool film, thanks for sharing. Mason is the man 💪 Hope you're doing well Mason

[@GiantRock]

Thank so much, means a lot coming from you guys. Still got my fingers crossed that I get the chance to shoot with you someday out here. Obviously Jtree stuff but I also got the beta on some gnarly parking lot roof cracks ✊

[@seriousmunk7164]

That ending... Today, I was bouldering for the third session this month. Some of the only climbing I've done in 19 years. 19 years ago, I was at my peak, sending V11/5.13. Then I started to get sick. Then out of the blue, I got really sick with CFS/ME, just like Mason. Much time spent barely able to stand up. Years on the couch watching TV. Today, I struggled to do the hardest moves on a V4 and proudly sent a V2 - a huge victory. I'm hoping it's a small sign of change, but I've been there and done that many many times, so I'm patient and time will tell. Chronic Fatigue is harder than the hardest route I ever did. Harder than hauling big loads on El Cap. But you never get to rap down and take a break. Just climbing a flight of stairs with two bags of groceries or tying your shoes can be an epic crux. I find myself saying, "You got this... Hang with it..." Reaching up for the shampoo in the shower. "Four more inches..." Best of luck to Mason. May his strength return fully and completely.

[@GiantRock]

Thanks for sharing your story. CFS is truly horrible, I'm glad to hear you are back to doing some climbing! I too hope it's a sign of good things to come for you and that it gives hope to other folks suffering from this.

[@seanvillanueva8047]

I have learned so much about off width climbing through Mason. Great to see his mind at work during this OW struggle. He is an inspiration as a climber, musician and as a human. Rock on brother! Get well!

[@GiantRock]

🙏 Mason told me some great stories about how insanely fun and motivating climbing with you was.

[@whelmking6497]

Your vids are exceptional. They are like the best long form written articles.. engaging, well filmed, excellent editing, great storytelling. You deserve way more subscribers. And what a humble beast Mason is. Wishing him the very very best in his recovery or whatever life presents him.

[@GiantRock]

Thanks so much, means a lot and def encourages me to keep going. Mason makes it real easy, humble beast is a great description. Nothing less than the raddest climber I've ever seen and one of the most inspirational people around.

[@Luckieoutdoors]

I wish mason the best, I love his climbing

[@Aaron-th7xx]

Can't believe this video isn't bigger! The storytelling, humanity, and climbing are all up to par with household names like Free Solo and the Alpinist. I hope more people discover this amazing series of videos and I hope Mason continues his gradual improvement!

[@GiantRock]

Hey thanks so much for the nice comment! 🙏🏼

[@miklrb]

Was told 20 years ago that I had CFS. Whatever it was it was no joke, stopped me dead in my tracks. Many so called Doctors said it was all in my head. Ya, sure, I wanted to go from a sport I was passionate about, sending 11's and enjoying the High Country of Colorado, to getting winded coiling a rope. I hope for the best outcome for Mason, really enjoyed watching him work. My CFS has gotten better over the years, back to climbing, sending 8's is my game now. The passion is coming back, although I am not sure it ever left, just took a detour for a bit.

[@KellenMcgrath]

Such amazing storytelling in all of your videos, this series with Mason in jtree was incredible! Cant wait for more to come😋

[@GiantRock]

Thank you that means a lot!

[@zatchery1]

I second this! I always get excited to see your videos pop up in my feed. Been loving this series on one of my favorite climbers!

[@michaeljuliano3821]

That Miguel's Pizza shirt though 👍👍👍

[@GiantRock]

🔥

[@jrblackify]

The storytelling approach to climbing films is soooo much more engaging than a series of Mellow-style V15 sends without the backstory.

[@GiantRock]

Thanks man!

[@elig2714]

Mason is the man. Someone to look up to. Great film.

[@jameswooster1120]

Mason is one the climbers I've looked up to the most in the last few years, had no idea about his condition. Get well soon you fucking legend

[@balke7935]

Literally one of the best climbing vids... watched it several times already, will probably watch it every day. Mason is one full on savage at heart, whatever the battle.

[@GiantRock]

Means a lot man thank you!

[@mixturefilms]

Stellar video with a poignant story of never loosing sight of your dreams. Wish Mason the best, keep em coming Giant Rock!

[@sweatfootm]

Mason is the shit. Just a totally rad climber and human. Big ups brother.

[@GiantRock]

100

[@ClimbingEasy]

Another great video! Mason Earl...modern legend. And yes to everyone; he is really this awesome in real life. I've shared my story before...but happened to see him at the gym one night and was so kind and encouraging to me, I'll remember that as the gold standard of what this community is all about. As stated before; modern legend.

[@EdHartouni]

I miss wandering around out there at JTree, you all captured the feeling of the days The Fish would walk us around and set us on the problems (or maybe the problems on us...). Watching Mason is always a pleasure. The modern generation of climbers are awe inspiring. Best wishes all. Doug Robinson picked the quote in the "Chouinard Catalogue" from the early 70's from the Rolling Stones, Ruby Tuesday, "Lose your dreams and you will lose your mind..." Keep dreaming out there, put them in motion and let them take you to amazing places.

[@GiantRock]

Thank you Ed, I've been a fan of yours from a long time ago going back to the Super Taco days and your thoughtful posts so that means a lot.

[@elijahsmith3564]

An exceptional story told for an exceptional person. Took me on ride from Gumby laughs to Earle triumphs. 5 star film making my friend!

[@beyondadventure514]

Best half hour on KZbin. Can’t pull yourself away.

[@GiantRock]

Thanks brotha!!

[@angrywino]

Mason is the soul, there is no doubt. My heart goes out to him and all who suffer from CFS. Your videos are poignant, humble, amusing and superbly crafted. Keep it up, please.

[@GiantRock]

thank you 🙏

[@JochyBre]

Well done, sirs! Well done. Both of you, Mason and you giant film maker. :) My prayers are with Mason. And please continue to make films like this. Soul integrated.

[@GiantRock]

Thanks so much man, I'm excited to make more!

[@jawsrocks7509]

Awesome video, soundtrack, and climbing! Wishing the best for Mason

[@ohayuhanna]

Your videos are truly a lesson for anyone who's making a documentary style video about a sport expedition like this. I personally like the pacing. The dramatic intro leads to a long sequence that has upbeat melody in the background, with Mason attempting the climbs. The pace then slows down a bit but the melody continues, and the interviews start. The importance of interviews in bringing the viewer into the action is SO BIG. I think its a huge part of filming such a documentary, because when you are personally there, you don't actually imagine how it would be seen on a video. Since you are experiencing everything first hand, you do not feel like there is a plot to be conveyed, and just filming the action is enough, but no, you actually have to have the people involved talking on camera, because without knowing the plot, the viewer cannot join the action, they cannot get involved. The backstory and the buildup is AS IMPORTANT as the climb itself. Watching other climbing videos, I sometimes do not get half the stoke I got from watching this video because here I know whats up, I've followed a 20(prev vid) + 15(first part of the vid) minute video about the adventure and I've listened to the thoughts and comments of the climber himself as if I was there! And then the commentary gets slower. You give a break, you introduce a stressful resolution about to happen, "he might not be able to climb it" You introduce that the resolution is about to happen. "That night, I prayed to the wide Gods." And then the melody is removed completely and you just watch Mason trying, talking about it, sitting on a rock talking to us. And then the guitar music starts. It is a stark contrast to the upbeat workout-style music. Its serene, its dramatic, its very serious and very touching. Then he begins the attempt. I love the way you configured your video. Love from Turkey

[@GiantRock]

dude! your comment reads more like a review from a film magazine than a youtube comment. You basically summed up everything I hope to achieve. Thanks so much for taking the time to share your opinion on the videos.

[@bigmountaingoat8401]

Its been a while since a climbing video has captivated my attention like this one, thank you for your time and energy! It hits the soul.

[@GiantRock]

Thank you that's so good to hear!

[@volcomskater8162]

Man these videos and your commentary are exceptional! That was sick seeing mason get after it! Definitely make me want to learn some offwidth wizardry, keep up the great work!

[@GiantRock]

Thank you man!

[@jfireclimbing]

Offwidth is all greek to me, but I think any climber would be inspired by that effort. Props on the edit Cole

[@GiantRock]

Thanks Jesse! Hope you are well and that we get to hang again sooner than later.

[@jacobjonsson8335]

Perfect reason for me to go back and rewatch part one! Thanks for the great films you make and share.

[@GiantRock]

My pleasure!

[@adamploof3528]

A lot of times I find climbing films where the story is primarily about sending the project to be kind of shallow, but this films was really refreshing and inspiring. I actually had no idea about Mason's illness. Very sad to hear. Along with being a gifted climber he also seems to be just a humble and cool person. The music throughout the film worked beautifully.

[@GiantRock]

Thanks Adam!

[@ethanlowe1845]

HOLY CRAP, i found that Gloucester offwidth (5:00) last week and have been dreaming about it since trying to work out if i could do it or if somone had tried it yet. literally fell out my chair when it came up in the video!!!

[@GiantRock]

haha! Thats amazing!

[@cobraclarke203]

Excellent story teller and great personalities. You guys rock! Best of luck and healing. Never give up.

[@GiantRock]

thanks so much 🙏

[@cz3582]

Hahaha, Nelson in that Gumby suit is awesome. 🤣🤣🤣

[@paulwilliam6180]

So cool to see my old buddy Quinton make a guest appearance. Regards and great content! Saludos desde México 👊🏽

[@calebwood4171]

As always love your short films especially with Mason. Thank you!

[@GiantRock]

Glad you like them!

[@1bhayes33]

Follow your dreams. Do what makes you happy. Well said, Mason, well said. Great video, as always, Cole.

[@GiantRock]

thanks brotha.

[@neilrankin4133]

Great video. So sorry to hear about your illness Mason. Get well and be well.

[@fiendsfootage]

Great video. The purity of the final footage was excellent and had me holding my breath. Also FWIW your V6/7 boulder problem looked really damn cool. Best wishes to Mason.

[@GiantRock]

Much appreciate man!

[@paulmitchell5349]

An admirable on sight approach.

[@kriszteblade]

Amazing climbing, storytelling and production quality. Edit: i've commented before last seconds. Jesus... Wish all the best.

[@GiantRock]

Thank you 🙏

[@outdoorrackbuilder9509]

Awesome video. Love the look of those grandstones

[@masterpropper2485]

Amazin' Earl!

[@FlatOutFE]

Great video. Thanks. Best wishes to Mason.

[@sethgilbertson2474]

So epic! That was a great send!💪

[@christineholmberg7431]

Amazing documentary, really enjoyed the journey. Wow

[@GiantRock]

So glad!

[@jonathangutierrez5019]

Amazing video! Sending love to Mason

[@tfclimbing]

Amazing as always! Hope Mason gets better soon

[@leewilliams6174]

Brilliant stuff

[@guywhoclimbsstuff8689]

Sporting that iconic Miguel's 🍕 t shirt... 🤙

[@adamarmstrong5780]

It’s a cruel world. So I can respect taking cruel measures. Right on mason. Right on

[@rickedeckard2006]

Wow... just made my lockdown week boys!!!!!!!!!!

[@GiantRock]

Psyched to hear that thanks!

[@rickedeckard2006]

@@GiantRock i was filled with excitement at the beginning but saddened at the end. Power to you Mason, in your time of struggle.

[@dustingra]

INSTANT CLASSIC

[@JonPMelly]

Mason = one of the best

[@robertnewell4054]

Gave the 👍🏽up, I’ll watch later

[@fwschnaar3179]

Awesome.... Too bad I can’t afford the Cams to Climb the Wide Off Widths 👍😃🤔🤪... Ok had to Edit at the end... Thoughts and Prayers for Mason

[@404am3]

What is that, 1 #5 and 2 #6s? Anyway great video (as always)

[@GiantRock]

I think that is right. and thanks!

[@lithiumfire9693]

my inner face climber is like "just crimp the crimps tho, v12? v13? easy for a pro"

[@leifgriem9753]

There’s probably a crimp line like that somewhere on the boulder but next to the crack it doesn’t seem like it can be crimped.

[@balke7935]

I’ve tried the ‘it’s fine, I’ll just crimp my way up’ approach. End in tears 😂

[@Cragdognamedbear]

Climbing with a couple of gumbies

[@tylerharris5494]

he looks kinda like brad gobright

[@tonkashouse]

What are those shoes?

[@GiantRock]

They are Grandstones I believe. I don't think 5.10 makes em anymore.

[@Govanification]

Those are the original Grandstones, but they did recently start making a newer version which are pretty awesome (I have 2 pairs).

[@BoboBish]

That's a boulder

[@carlswenson5403]

hope you're paying attention Rock and Ice .. this man here is taking actual legit whippers, none of that candy ass poser bs you guys publish

[@adamarmstrong5780]

Alcohol and amphetamines hit differently when you are young.