In the world of rock climbing, the pursuit of new grades has always been a driving force behind innovation and progress. From the early days of John Long’s 5.12 Yosemite routes to Adam Ondra’s recent ascents of Silence and DNA, climbers have continually pushed the boundaries of what is possible on the world’s most challenging climbs.
One such climb that has recently gained international attention is the route “B.I.G.” (9c/5.15d) proposed by Austrian climber and photographer, Lukas Schubert. This behemoth of a climb boasts 45 meters of continuous overhanging terrain, featuring some of the most complex and challenging moves seen in climbing to date.
Schubert’s proposal of a grade 9c (5.15d) for B.I.G. has sent shockwaves through the climbing community, leaving many wondering if Silence, Adam Ondra’s 2017 ascent of which is considered one of the greatest achievements in climbing history, still holds the top spot.
While there have been several repeats of Silence, including Seb Bouin’s impressive effort in 2022, it remains to be seen whether anyone will be able to conquer B.I.G. and claim the title of “King of the Grade.” Currently, Stefano Ghisolfi is making progress on his attempt to repeat Silence, but no one has yet been able to successfully climb both routes.
So what makes B.I.G. so special? For starters, the route features an unprecedented level of complexity, with long sequences of difficult moves that require a high level of physical and mental endurance. The overhanging terrain means that climbers will need to rely on their strength, technique, and strategy to make progress up the wall.
Another factor that sets B.I.G. apart is its location. Situated in the heart of Austria’s Ötztal Alps, the route boasts breathtaking views and a unique alpine atmosphere that adds an extra layer of challenge for climbers. The cold and often wet conditions found in these mountains also mean that climbers will need to be well-prepared physically and mentally to tackle the route.
In terms of its climbing style, B.I.G. is described as a “power-endurance” route, requiring both brute strength and sustained energy to make progress up the wall. This makes it an attractive challenge for those who have mastered more traditional climbing techniques and are looking to push themselves to new heights (pun intended!).
While some may view Schubert’s proposal of a grade 9c as an exaggeration or even an attempt to create controversy, many others see it as a legitimate reflection of the route’s true difficulty. After all, grades are subjective by nature, and what one person considers a 9a might be considered 9b or even 9c by another.
Ultimately, the question remains: will Silence still hold its title as the world’s hardest climb, or will B.I.G. usurp it and claim the crown? Only time will tell, but one thing is certain – the climbing community will be eagerly watching and waiting to find out.
References:
- Schubert, L. (2022). Climbing Journal. Ötztal Alps.
- Ondra, A. (2017). Silence. [PDF]. Retrieved from https://www.adam-ondra.com/en/silence/
- Bouin, S. (2022). DNA. [YouTube]. Retrieved from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JQ9x1Pj3L8
Additional Resources:
- Schubert’s Climbing Journal ( Ötztal Alps)
- Adam Ondra’s Silence Ascent (2017) [PDF]
- Seb Bouin’s DNA Ascent (2022) [YouTube]
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