I think when some of the most illustrious extreme cachers in the country describe on this cache as possibly the UKs toughest cache it is probably worth noting that this is likely to be a challenging, challenging cache even more so than this caches cousins ‘Lasciate ogne speranza, voi ch'intrate’ and ‘Earnanæs, þæs wyrmes denn’.

 

I should start of by saying I have taken quite a beating from this cache and whilst the climbs and descents were tiring and challenging the squeeze just before the cache really took it out on me especially as I think my waist size was a few inches larger than others who have successfully completed this cache. I have bruising and swelling across both sets of ribs resulting in painful breathing, scrapes and bruises galore especially on the upper half and a few small lacerations on top of general muscle ache. I have made it to work today though so there is probably a little bit of hypochondria in my ailments as well.

 

This cache is tough and as Collapsibletank mentions ascending through tiny gaps with harness, carabiner and rope is extremely challenging especially when already massively fatigued as with Lasciate the ascent out of hell is a lot more difficult than the descent in. We persevered though and completing this tough cache was reward in itself but the magnificent flowstone further down was an amazing sight in itself, never seen it so good outside of foreign and ‘show’ caves. Great to discover another top cache coin as well. Pretty much every step is a challenge once you pass through the final chamber of Lasciate. I find it hard to believe the two caches are only 50m apart as the crow flies, it sure as hell felt a lot longer.

 

Thanks to my caving buddies Antpeng and Collapsibletank as well. I think both took turns being foot rests and pulling duty for those tight holes. Thanks for your patience and sorry for making you both late. If you need tardy notes let me know and I will write you one up.

 

A challenging cache. Not sure if recommend is the correct word but a great sense of achievement if you hit GZ. Glad to have ticked off such a tough cache and I am sure it will make any future 5/5s feel like a micro in a car park. Thanks for setting this, just finding and deciding on this spot shows you are far madder than any of us finders.  TFTC

 

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