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Climb Onsight
Weekly Climbing Report
March 27, 2026
Major Ascents & First Ascents
Adam Ondra Flashes 'Emotional Landscapes' (8C) at Maltatal
On March 11, Adam Ondra added yet another astonishing entry to his flash record with a first-go ascent of 'Emotional Landscapes' at Maltatal, Austria. The 8C grade makes this his fourth 8C flash — an achievement no other climber in history can claim.
Read Ondra's thoughts on the flash →Swiss Team Makes First Ascent of 'Zébu' on Klein Fiescherhorn
From March 8–10, Silvan Schüpbach, Olivier Kolly, and Filippo Sala completed the first ascent of 'Zébu' (M8+, 70°, 1,100m) on the Northwest Face of Klein Fiescherhorn in the Bernese Alps. The massive 1,100-metre mixed line pushes the limits of high-alpine mixed terrain and represents a serious new addition to the Swiss Alps' already impressive catalogue of routes.
See photos on Silvan's Instagram →Stefano Ragazzo Makes First Rope Solo Ascent in Patagonia
Alone for over 15 days on the East Face of Torre Central del Paine, Stefano Ragazzo became the first person to rope-solo 'Riders on the Storm' — one of Patagonia's most iconic routes, attempted by a few teams and never soloed before Ragazzo laced up his boots.
Read about his ascent and see photos →Competition Climbing News
USA Ice Climbing Becomes an Independent Organization
USA Ice Climbing (USAIC) formally separated from the American Alpine Club in March and is moving toward 501(c)(3) nonprofit status as a standalone governing body. This is especially timely: ice climbing is under consideration for inclusion in the 2030 French Alps Winter Olympics, and the sport now has a dedicated national organization to drive athlete development and international competition efforts.
Read more from the American Alpine Club →Climbing in Canada
Squamish Climbing Generates $45 Million in Economic Impact
The Squamish Access Society released the first-ever economic impact study of climbing in the region, revealing that in 2025 an estimated 460,000 "climber days" were logged in the area. That activity generated $25.4 million in direct spending, growing to $45 million in total economic impact across British Columbia. The study is expected to be a powerful tool for access advocates when negotiating with land managers and local government.
Read the study →New Routes Open at Cheakamus Canyon
Speaking of Squamish, two local guides opened 'The Enterprise,' a new route in Cheakamus Canyon overlooking the Cheakamus River. Cheakamus Canyon is one of the most popular sport climbing destinations in the Squamish area — check it out when you visit!
Read more on Gripped →Ontario Climbing Federation Youth Boulder Provincials
The OCF Youth B/A/Jr Boulder Provincials are scheduled for March 26–27 at Boulderz. It's great to see gyms — including my home gym — supporting and promoting the development of competition climbing in Ontario.
See the schedule →Ready to climb smarter?
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