Big wall cinema: Babsi Zangerl flashes “Freerider” at El Capitan@(betweenHeadlineTag)>
Barbara “Babsi” Zangerl climbed the Freerider route (7c+) on the famous El Capitan between November 19 and 22, 2024 without falling. This makes her the first person ever to achieve a flawless flash on this wall. The roper and life partner Jacopo Larcher also tried it, but fell into the rope once.
Despite her many successes at Yosemite in previous years, the climber was hesitant to attempt the route: “I had very low expectations,” Zangerl said. Many strong climbers have probably already failed due to a flash from Freerider, including Adam Ondra, who fatally hit the wall with his head, and Pete Whittaker, who had to abseil during the attempt and fell head over heels. of the versions. .
In an interview with climbing.com Zangerl reports about the days on the 1000 meter wall: ”The freeblast was quite difficult […] There are many pitches where you don’t have a good grip and you are standing on a very bad footing. Stomachs are often slippery, there’s so much chance to make a mistake and fall.” Name d. Red.)
“That was very helpful for me. There was a moment when I felt like I couldn’t do anything anymore. I was so exhausted, but I grabbed my leg, because [Alex] She told me, and it worked,” she repeats in the conversation. She also managed the infamous “ninja kick” on the first attempt. ”I started to believe that it could be possible,” continues Zangerl and she proved: Yes it possible!
Babsi Zangerl in “Freerider” (7c+).
© Instagram/Babsi Zangerl
Austrian climber Babsi Zangerl is known for her versatility: from challenging boulder problems to mentally complex (and technically climbing) routes and the free repeat of demanding big wall lines (e.g. Eternal Flame on the Nameless Tower, The Nose on El Capitan and Odyssey onwards north of the Eiger), the alpinist always scores with a cool head and strong hands.
Zangerl is the only woman (and only the fourth ever!) to repeat the Alpine trilogy (The Emperor’s New Clothes, End of Silence and Silver Vulture). She mostly climbs in a rope team with her partner Jacopo Larcher.
By way of Freerider (7c+)@(betweenHeadlineTag)>
Freerider is one of the most popular big wall routes in Yosemite Valley. He became aware of the climbing scene through Alex Honnold’s film “Free Solo”, in which he climbed the route without rope protection in three hours and 56 minutes.
In 1998, the Huberbuam climbed the red point 33-pitch route. The difficulties are in grade IX/IX+ of the UIAA scale. It took Thomas and Alexander Huber just over 15 hours to complete their red point ascent.
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How does the climbing community support athletes like Babsi Zangerl during challenging climbs?
Interview between Time.news Editor and Expert Climber about Babsi Zangerl’s Achievement on El Capitan
Editor: Welcome to Time.news, where we dive deep into today’s most exciting stories. We’re thrilled to have with us an expert climber and analyst of climbing achievements, Dr. Peter Müller. Today, we’ll discuss an extraordinary feat accomplished by Austrian climber Babsi Zangerl: her flawless flash ascent of the Freerider route on El Capitan. Dr. Müller, thank you for joining us!
Dr. Müller: Thank you for having me! It’s always great to discuss the groundbreaking achievements in the world of climbing.
Editor: Let’s jump right in. Babsi Zangerl managed to climb the Freerider route without falling, making her the first person to achieve a flawless flash on this renowned wall. How significant is this accomplishment in the climbing community?
Dr. Müller: It’s monumental! The Freerider is known for its daunting challenges, particularly because of its vertical nature and technical sequences. Many top climbers, including elite athletes like Adam Ondra, have attempted this route and failed. Zangerl’s achievement not only showcases her technical skills but also her mental fortitude, which is crucial when attempting such demanding climbs.
Editor: Absolutely! Zangerl mentioned that she had very low expectations before attempting the route. What does this say about the mindset of elite climbers, especially when faced with formidable challenges?
Dr. Müller: It’s fascinating! Many elite climbers often grapple with self-doubt before major climbs. Babsi’s humble approach reflects a common mindset: the acknowledgment of the route’s difficulty and the respect for the mountain. This humility can be an asset, allowing climbers to focus on the moment rather than the pressure of their expectations.
Editor: In the article, Zangerl also detailed the physical and mental challenges she faced on the wall, describing how easily one can make a mistake. Can you elaborate on the environmental factors that make climbing routes like the Freerider so perilous?
Dr. Müller: Certainly! The Freerider is approximately 1,000 meters high, and many pitches feature poor footholds and slippery sections. Climbers need to maintain their concentration and physical control to mitigate the risk of falling. Environmental factors such as weather conditions, rock quality, and fatigue further complicate the climb. It’s a test of not just physical strength but also strategic thinking and mental resilience.
Editor: Zangerl spoke about an encouraging moment she had during her climb, involving advice from fellow climber Alex Honnold. How important is the role of community and support in climbing?
Dr. Müller: The climbing community is incredibly supportive. Moments like the one Zangerl experienced can make a huge difference. Sharing techniques and encouragement can help climbers overcome psychological barriers and physical exhaustion. Climbing is often seen as an individual sport, but many climbers thrive in the camaraderie and shared knowledge of their peers.
Editor: Looking at Zangerl’s performance, she had to confront a historical stigma tied to this climb, where many prominent climbers faced failure. Does her success pave the way for future climbers, particularly women in the sport?
Dr. Müller: Definitely! Babsi’s success is inspiring and serves as a clear message: women can excel at the highest levels of climbing, breaking through previously unchallenged barriers. It encourages more young female climbers to pursue ambitious goals. Her achievement will undoubtedly motivate others to push their limits and pursue challenging routes, leading to a more inclusive and competitive climbing scene.
Editor: As a climber yourself, how do you view the physical and psychological dimensions of such a remarkable outdoor achievement?
Dr. Müller: Climbing is a unique combination of physical prowess and mental strategy. While strength and technique are essential, the psychological element—managing fear, maintaining focus, and pushing through self-doubt—can be even more challenging. Zangerl’s accomplishment perfectly exemplifies the marriage of body and mind in achieving extraordinary feats.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Müller, for sharing your insights on Babsi Zangerl’s phenomenal ascent on El Capitan. Her achievement is not just a personal victory but a milestone for the climbing community as a whole.
Dr. Müller: Thank you for having me! It’s always a pleasure to discuss the incredible feats that continue to inspire climbers and enthusiasts worldwide.