Alex Honnold has become the first climber to free solo El Capitan in Yosemite, by climbing Freerider (5.12d). On 3rd June 2017, Honnold left all ropes and gear at the bottom of the 3000ft monolith and began climbing at 5:32am, topping out in 3 hours and 56 minutes. This ascent marks the pinnacle so far of Honnold's breathtaking CV, and is undoubtedly one of the most significant ascents in the history of the sport.
Honnold has been working Freerider since last Autumn, climbing it countless times in preparation. The route was the obvious choice for a solo ascent, being the 'easiest' way to free climb on El Cap, at 5.12d (equivalent to f7c/+). Freerider features some noteworth pitches; 'The Monster Offwidth' - a miserable wide crack that has been known to break people and 'The Boulder Problem' pitch which is the crux of the entire route and is essentially one hard move off a tiny handhold.
Honnold flew to fame within the climbing world in 2008, with his solo of Moonlight Buttress in Zion. He went on to top this with a solo ascent of Half-Dome, where there is an iconic image of him standing on the 'Thank God Ledge' looking outwards. Perhaps Honnold's most significant escapade to date was the 'Triple Crown,' where he soloed the three biggest walls in Yosemite, climbing free and using aid.
We tracked down Pete Whittaker, who rope-soloed Freerider last November for a comment on Honnold's ascent and all we could get out of him was: "Holy shit sticks!"
We'll be in touch with Alex shortly to ask him about his ascent.
VIDEO: Alex Honnold solo on Mount Watkins, the first route of the Triple Crown:
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