Rich Laver (1942-2012) on the Pendulum Pitch on Royal Arches (5.7 A1 or 5.9)

Rich Laver introduced me to many fine climbs in Yosemite. He has just finished the famous pendulum here. A few months later I returned and led this part free (5.9), though it was not very risky with the super protection from above. Many parties are now descending this route by rappel, but some get into trouble. It is still best, I think, to traverse to the steep gully commonly used, which has never been a problem for me or my friends.