Bill Price on Thai Die with Kurt Rieder

by Dave Diegelman

Title

Bill Price on Thai Die with Kurt Rieder

Artist

Dave Diegelman

Medium

Photograph - Archival Photographs

Description

In 1975, I captured Bill Price on Thai Die during what we believed to be the first ascent (top rope) of a 5.11ish route we stumbled upon while exploring above the 90' wall overlooking Emerald Bay at Lake Tahoe. My parents had a tradition of renting a place in Tahoe for summer vacations, and that year, they allowed me to bring a couple of friends. Excited about the prospect of exploring climbs in the Tahoe area, I invited Bill Price and Kurt Rieder to join me.

The 90-foot wall was already a recognized climbing area, so we spent the day there, scaling most of the established routes. Up and to the right, there was a substantial avalanche chute that seemed like it could be an excellent steep ski line in the future. I suggested returning the next day to explore it for potential rock climbs, given the numerous cliffs with featured rock. Upon our return, we were pleasantly surprised to discover a 75-foot gem that could be top-roped from above, offering several intriguing lines.

To reach the base, we had to navigate an exposed ledge system, adding an exciting element of exposure. We attempted several lines, presuming they were first ascents due to the absence of chalk markings. Among them, Thai Die stood out. The name was inspired not by colorful Deadhead shirts but by the green contraband material that came on bamboo sticks at that time, known to those with the right connections. Each of us made multiple attempts on the slightly overhanging line, and eventually, Bill successfully reached the top.

While we all considered it a potential lead climb, the upper section lacked easily protected cracks, and bolting on rappel was strictly frowned upon during that era. Consequently, we never pursued it further. I suspect that the area is now filled with established climbs. If any of my climbing friends from Tahoe recognize it and can provide information on its name and rating, I would appreciate hearing from you.

If you're interested in acquiring a mural-sized wall covering of this piece, feel free to inquire via email. It's a part of my Limited Edition series, with only 100 prints available. Please note that the price increases as it sells. Just like all my editions, you can obtain certificates of authenticity by providing proof of purchase and your mailing address. Please send the necessary information to ddiegelman@gmail.com.

Photo & Text All Rights Reserved © Dave Diegelman

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Uploaded

February 28th, 2024

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