Megos in Gimmelwald: what a ticklist

If that doesn't bode well for the second Lead World Cup of the season in Villars. During a flying visit to the Gimmelwald climbing area, Alexander Megos quickly scored Renardo Rules (8c, flash), El Molinero (8c+, in the second go), Goldfinger (8c, in third go) and Swiss francs (8b+, in the fourth go).

The IFSC Worldcup series is currently in Villars Halt and with her the international climbing elite. Alex Megos also used his stay in Switzerland to work with Anak Verhoeven, John Thornton and Alex tube the sport climbing Mecca gimmelwald to pay a visit.

Gimmelwald ticklist by Alexander Megos.

Impressive Gimmelwald ticklist

During this short stay, Alexander Megos once again demonstrated his talent for being able to decode difficult routes quickly. Supplied with beta tips from Swiss climber Alex Rohr, he managed several difficult lines at once, including the flash ascent of Renardo Rules (8c). In El Molinero (8c +) the German climbing professional reached the deflector in the second attempt for the inspection of Goldfinger (8c) he needed three tries. The line Swiss franc (8b +) managed Alex Megos in the fourth attempt.

Alex Megos IFSC World Cup Villars
Alex Megos won the silver medal at the Lead World Cup in Villars 2021. Image: Lena Drapella/IFSC

Megos with fond memories of Villars

With the IFSC World Cup in Villars, Alex Megos has positive memories: last year he climbed the second rank, 2019 won the the bronze medal. How it turns out this year remains to be seen. Qualifying rounds in the Lead discipline started yesterday. Today from 10 a.m. the strongest climbers in the world will compete in the semi-finals, at 20 p.m. the finals will start.

That might interest you

+ + +

Credits: Cover picture Alexander Megos.

News

Rätikon: Babsi Zangerl & Jacopo Larcher repeat “Déjà” (8c+) – the hardest multi-pitch ascent by a woman

With their free ascent of "Déjà" on the south face of the Kirchlispitzen, the Austrian woman and the Italian man have completed their hardest project to date in the Rätikon. It is the first time the line has ever been repeated – and probably the first time a woman has climbed a multi-pitch route graded 8c+.

First 9a+ for Leo Cea (13): “No Pain No Gain” in Rodellar

Climbing a 9a+ was Leo Cea's clear goal for 2026. The year is far from over, but the plan has already been achieved: On September 2nd, the 13-year-old German-Chilean climber completed a real endurance challenge with "No Pain No Gain" in Rodellar.

RENATURATION | Silvan Schüpbach – Trad in Wilderswil

John Thornton's film "Renaturation" follows Silvan Schüpbach to Wilderswil. There, he freed a forgotten sport climbing route from its rusty bolts and then climbed it clean. A film about style, climbing ethics, and what climbing beyond maximum difficulty can mean.

You are our athletes – 25 years of Chillaz

Since 2001, Chillaz has stood for sustainable materials, high-quality climbing apparel, and responsibility towards nature. For its 25th anniversary, we celebrate the history of this Tyrolean family business – and the athletes who bring the brand's vision to life on the rock face.

Rätikon: Babsi Zangerl & Jacopo Larcher repeat “Déjà” (8c+) – the hardest multi-pitch ascent by a woman

With their free ascent of "Déjà" on the south face of the Kirchlispitzen, the Austrian woman and the Italian man have completed their hardest project to date in the Rätikon. It is the first time the line has ever been repeated – and probably the first time a woman has climbed a multi-pitch route graded 8c+.

First 9a+ for Leo Cea (13): “No Pain No Gain” in Rodellar

Climbing a 9a+ was Leo Cea's clear goal for 2026. The year is far from over, but the plan has already been achieved: On September 2nd, the 13-year-old German-Chilean climber completed a real endurance challenge with "No Pain No Gain" in Rodellar.

RENATURATION | Silvan Schüpbach – Trad in Wilderswil

John Thornton's film "Renaturation" follows Silvan Schüpbach to Wilderswil. There, he freed a forgotten sport climbing route from its rusty bolts and then climbed it clean. A film about style, climbing ethics, and what climbing beyond maximum difficulty can mean.