John Long, a renowned American rock climber and accomplished author, entered the world in 1959, marking the beginning of a remarkable journey that would soon unfold. His educational foundation was laid at Upland High School in Upland, California, where he proudly earned his diploma in 1971.
Before devoting himself to the thrilling world of rock climbing, Long explored other avenues, including weightlifting, which served as a precursor to his future endeavors. Furthermore, he briefly attended Claremont School of Theology, where he initially pursued a degree in divinity, only to later redirect his focus towards the rugged and awe-inspiring realm of rock climbing.
Long's extraordinary climbing career is inextricably linked to his affiliation with an elite ensemble of climbers, famously referred to as the "Stonemasters". This prestigious group, comprising a coterie of exceptional athletes, including John Bachar, Rick Accomazzo, Richard Harrison, Tobin Sorenson, Rob Muir, Gib Lewis, Jim Wilson, and Mike Graham, played a pivotal role in pioneering bold, innovative climbing routes in the picturesque Idyllwild, California region during the 1970s, leaving an indelible mark on the sport.
John Bachar
Born: 1957, California, USA
Died: May 16, 2009, Idyllwild, California, USA
Climbing career: 1970s-2000s
Notable achievements: Established numerous first ascents in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, including the iconic "Stonemaster" route on Mount Russell.
Rick Accomazzo
Born: 1950s, California, USA
Climbing career: 1970s-1980s
Notable achievements: Co-founded the "Stonemasters" climbing group, established numerous first ascents in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, and was a prominent figure in the development of modern climbing techniques.
Richard Harrison
Born: 1950s, California, USA
Climbing career: 1970s-1980s
Notable achievements: Member of the "Stonemasters" climbing group, established numerous first ascents in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, and was known for his bold, innovative climbing style.
Tobin Sorenson
Born: 1950s, California, USA
Climbing career: 1970s-1980s
Notable achievements: Member of the "Stonemasters" climbing group, established numerous first ascents in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, and was recognized for his exceptional climbing skills and bold, daring ascents.
Rob Muir
Born: 1950s, California, USA
Climbing career: 1970s-1980s
Notable achievements: Member of the "Stonemasters" climbing group, established numerous first ascents in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, and was known for his technical climbing skills and innovative route-finding abilities.
Gib Lewis
Born: 1950s, California, USA
Climbing career: 1970s-1980s
Notable achievements: Member of the "Stonemasters" climbing group, established numerous first ascents in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, and was recognized for his exceptional climbing skills and bold, daring ascents.
Jim Wilson
Born: 1950s, California, USA
Climbing career: 1970s-1980s
Notable achievements: Member of the "Stonemasters" climbing group, established numerous first ascents in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, and was known for his technical climbing skills and innovative route-finding abilities.
Mike Graham
Born: 1950s, California, USA
Climbing career: 1970s-1980s
Notable achievements: Member of the "Stonemasters" climbing group, established numerous first ascents in the Sierra Nevada mountain range, and was recognized for his exceptional climbing skills and bold, daring ascents.
