We’re starting out with Chris Sharma who, just when some people seemed to think he might be done with cutting edge routes, has made the first ascent of a 9b/9b+. If the grade is confirmed, it will be amongst the 5 hardest routes in the World. The route is called 'El Bon Combat' and it lies at the Cova del Ocell, 40 minutes from Barcelona. Chris has been trying it since last June and after many attempts, it’s finally fallen. The really interesting part of this story will come when the Ondras and Megoses of the World arrive to give it a go, but in the meantime, big congratulations to Chris.
Next, we’re off to Fontainebleau, France, where Nalle Hukkataival has made the first post chipping ascent of 'L’Alchemiste'. The problem was climbed as an 8B in 1997 but somebody, for some reason, chopped off the holds, making it impossible, or so everyone thought.
Nalle had a good go at it last year but the lack of any real holds means that it requires perfect conditions and he had to wait until last week, and some cold temperatures, to get it done. There’s no word yet on the grade but if it was 8B when it had holds, it must be fairly tricky now.
Chris Sharma Establishes New 9b/+ 'El Bon Combat' | EpicTV Climbing Daily, Ep.459