Realization: Ethan Climbs Hard Ethan Pringle, who grew up climbing at Mission Cliffs, has gone on to become one of the world’s hottest climbers. Ethan who grew up only a couple blocks from Mission Cliffs, started climbing in his early teens at the gym.

On Sept. 5th, Ethan became only the 5th person to ascend Realization, a route in Ceuse, France established by Chris Sharma. The route was considered at least a 5.15a – perhaps harder, although when Ethan finished the route, he put it at 14d.

"That's our boy", head routesetter Craig McClenahan stated after hearing of Ethan's send. Craig went on in jest to say "A 15a in France is a 14c in California."

The wall it is on overhangs at an absurd angle and the route stretches for over 100 feet. Redpointing the route requires technical sequences, raw power, and extraordinary crimp strength.

Pringle probably spent less time working out the moves on Realization than the four people who redpointed it before him.

For more info, see:

http://www.climbing.com/news/hotflashes/pringlerealization/

http://www.bigupproductions.blogspot.com/

Labels: Chris Sharma, climbing, Craig McClenahan, Ethan Pringle, members

  ¶ Tuesday, September 25, 2007