Earlier this month UKC reported on French climber Arnaud Petit's traditional ascent of Black Bean, a huge 70m 8b sport route at Ceüse, one of France's most famous limestone cliffs.
The video of the ascent was a huge hit, and we have followed this up with an interview with Arnaud to find out his motivations for climbing this route, as well as his general climbing motivations and ambitions.
Nice interview. I think I like him. Seems like he's out there doing great stuff yet at the same time very self-aware of his own limitations.
"I am inspired by everyone who is able to forget their tiring every-day-life-obligations to focus on the project of the moment, whatever their climbing level." - Good answer.
In reply to Chris Craggs:
They've been 'imminent' for about 4 years now but finally seem to be available, they look good for aiding or slightly sketchy placements.
In reply to UKC Articles: I was around when he did the route and for the few days before. One thing I'm curious about which had nothing to do with the route is that he, or the guys he was with, knocked down the cairns underneath biographie. Made a hell of a crash and for the life of me couldn't figure out why anyone would do that.
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