Keyword: 9a +

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.

For the past two years, Eva Hammelmüller has not only been racking up climbing meters in various parts of Europe, but also an increasing number of 9a routes. Now the Austrian has finally cracked the 9a+ grade in Arco. We spoke with her.

American trad climbing pro Connor Herson secured the first ascent of the route "Drifters Escape" in Squamish, British Columbia, Canada on July 14, 2025. The line is his most difficult first ascent to date and the culmination of two climbing seasons spent working on it.

Shortly after repeating Stefano Ghisolfi's endurance test piece "Erebor" (9b), Filip Schenk has now completed his remaining projects at Eremo di San Paolo near Arco. Time for new challenges.

Four years, 160 sessions, countless highs and lows, and finally the moment has arrived: Exodia is complete. A first ascent that could make history, as the Italian climber proposes a grade of 9A+. 

Michael Piccolruaz had long been searching for the perfect line. With Chris Sharma's DWS test piece "Es Pontas" in Mallorca, the professional climber from South Tyrol has now fulfilled his dream of his very own kingline.

A few days ago, the exceptional German athlete Yannick Flohé succeeded in repeating the route »Corona« (9a+) in the Franconian Jura – the first route in Germany at this level of difficulty. 

Alex Megos climbed Kangaroo's Limb, a 20a+ in the famous Hanshelleren cave in Flatanger, on August 2025, 9.