Daniel Woods makes the first ascent of Adrenaline (8C+). The project near Colorado had occupied the American bouder professional for over a year and required an enormous pain tolerance.
“What a painful affair that was!” So commented Daniel Woods his most recent first ascent in Colorado: Adrenaline (8C+). Even though the line and the rock were phenomenal, it was difficult to get into a rhythm. This was due not least to the extremely painful key point, a bad ring lock.
My skin and the conditions had to be perfect in order to generate the necessary friction and be able to carry out the movements.
Daniel Woods
Numb fingers for the key point
In said crux, Woods had to wedge his fingers into an opening crack and then lock through that ring lock to reach the next hold. This lock was super painful and constantly bruised his left index finger.
The Ring Lock only feels secure when my fingers are numb and I can't feel it.
Daniel Woods
This eliminates the pain and allows him to push through without thinking about it. “This is definitely the hardest ring lock move I’ve ever done,” said Woods. But that's not enough. After this finger killer, there are still two sharp micro bars to hold.
Pain tolerance is part of the game with Adrenaline.
Daniel Woods
Difficult to evaluate
In January 2023, Daniel Woods touched the heavily overhanging line in Colorado for the first time. After a few days of planning, he traveled to Ticino and returned in April. However, the temperatures soon began to rise.
It wasn't until this winter that Daniel Woods was able to think about serious attempts again. The rest is history. Woods suggests 8C+ for Adrenaline, but emphasizes that it is very difficult to rate this line.
That might interest you
- One of the most difficult flash ascents - Daniel Woods boulders Compass North (8B +)
- Daniel Woods bouldering Return of the Sleepwalker (9a / V17) - video
+ + +
Credits: Cover picture Bobby Sorich