Climbing Gold Climbing Blind: The Duftons
7 snips
Jul 25, 2025 
Jesse Dufton, a blind climber from the UK, and his wife Molly, his climbing partner and guide, share their extraordinary story. They discuss their unique partnership, tackling the challenges of climbing without sight while emphasizing support and communication. The excitement of their first ascent in Morocco is highlighted, illustrating the psychological aspects of risk-taking and gear placement. They also delve into the peculiarities of climbing in diverse environments, showcasing their resilience and adventurous spirit as they adapt to the obstacles they face.
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First Guiding Experience Together
- Molly didn't realize Jesse was blind at first and thought he couldn't see in the dark like anyone else.
- Their first descent together at dusk was a shock but natural, showing early guiding trust.
Power of Calm Climbing Beta
- Climbing with calm, clear instructions is key for managing fear and performing under pressure.
- Molly's steady guiding style exemplifies how good communication aids success.
Normalizing Unknown in Climbing
- Sighted climbers find first ascents scarier due to unknown risks, unlike Jesse, who climbs into the unknown regularly.
- Climbing into the unknown becomes normalized with experience, making fear relative.