When you would grab that last hole you could literally feel all of the hope, desire and stress drop off of you.

To anyone writing about #dawnwall, this is not an effort to 'conquer.' It's about realizing a dream.

I like to control the risk I take. And when risk is taken out of my hands, it frustrates me.

I'm practical, very data-driven and process-oriented. I'm very objective and analytical about everything. Ninety-five percent of situations on the wall are not that dangerous. Most people look at the climb and think, 'that's crazy.' But when you know the intricacies of your gear, the belay situation and the forces involved, it's pretty safe.

I think everyone has their own secret Dawn Wall to complete one day, and maybe they can put this project in their own context.

The common thread in all of my climbing is it was something new, something never done before. That commonality is more important than the discipline.

When you're climbing with someone who always sees the bright spot, even if there is no bright spot, that attitude is really helpful.