US boulderist Katie Lamb has once again made climbing history with the ascent of The Dark Side (8C+) in Yosemite National Park. Following her first ascent of Box Therapy in 2023, which was later downgraded, Lamb is now the first woman to climb a recognized 8C+ boulder.
The Dark Side boulder is located in Yosemite National Park’s historic Camp 4 and was completed in December 2023 by Carlo Traversi Traversi described the line, in which he invested a whopping 50 sessions spread over seven years, as the "perfect line in the perfect place" and suggested a difficulty grade of 8C+. This suggestion was later rejected by the first repeater Aidan Roberts approved. lambs The ascent marks the first female ascent of a boulder of this difficulty level.
This ascent is particularly significant because Lamb’s previous 8C+ ascent of Box Therapy in Rocky Mountain National Park was subsequently confirmed by other climbers, including Brooke and Shawn Raboutou, was downgraded to 8C. The Dark Side, however, was confirmed by both the first ascent and Aidan Roberts, underscoring Lamb's achievement.
Katie Lamb climbing The Penrose Step (8B+)
Katie Lamb, born on September 16, 1997, has established herself as one of the leading female boulderers in recent years. With the ascent of The Dark Side, she cemented her place in climbing history and set new standards for women in bouldering.
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Credits: Cover picture Katie Lamb