Alex Johnson ticks Russia (8A+)

Alex Johnson, with 24 boulders 8A+ to 8B+ and two World Cup victories under her belt, has completed Russia (8A+) in San Rafael Swell. ”Intermission taco and modelo assist from the retired ladies off-roading sprinter van club. serendipitous day with Sera.”

Can you elaborate more on that special day with Sera?
I tried this boulder the same day I sent gringo (8A+) in January, and came close but was just too tired. Then I was injured for all of February and March, and was only recently able to get back out.

I went with Sera Gearhart, and she sent second go, she’s really on one right now, especially with her back to back days of climbing V13 and 14. Huge inspo.

A few hours in, I split a tip and debated calling it. At that moment, my dog ran off to a nearby campsite as they were serving dinner, and he could smell it. We chased him down, and when we walked into the campsite we were met by a dozen women with sprinter vans on a women-only camping trip. They immediately handed us plates and beers, and we ate tacos and chatted.

After eating, we went back to the boulder and I guess the break, the taco, and the beer worked, because I found myself topping out. All the ladies cheered. The day was so serendipitous, it was one I’ll never forget.