Rain Postpones Climber’s Rope-Free Skyscraper Ascent
Heavy rain in Taipei has forced American climber Alex Honnold to postpone his planned rope-free ascent of Taipei 101. The highly anticipated climb will now take place in 24 hours, as safety concerns regarding wet conditions linger.
Details of the Climb
Honnold, famous for being the first climber to ascend El Capitan in Yosemite without ropes in 2017, expressed disappointment over the weather. He stated, “Sadly it’s raining in Taipei right now, so I don’t get to go climbing.”
Taipei 101: A Skyscraper Marvel
- Height: 508 meters (1,667 feet)
- Material: Steel, glass, and concrete
- Design: Features eight sections resembling bamboo joints
The iconic building, located in Taiwan’s capital, has previously been climbed. In 2004, French climber Alain Robert, known as “Spiderman,” ascended it using ropes. Honnold’s climb marks a different challenge, as he plans a completely rope-free ascent.
Live Streaming and Safety Precautions
Netflix is set to stream Honnold’s exhilarating climb. However, the company has implemented precautionary measures, including a 10-second delay for the broadcast should an emergency arise. Netflix executive Jeff Gaspin emphasized that “safety remains our top priority,” reinforcing the importance of viewer safety.
Climbing Stages
The ascent will consist of three stages:
- Initial climb of 113 meters of sloping steel and glass
- Eight bamboo-like sections with slight overhangs
- Final climb to the spire at the top
At 40 years old, Honnold regards this climbing endeavor as “a lifelong dream.” His 2017 historic ascent of El Capitan was chronicled in the award-winning film “Free Solo,” highlighting his extraordinary skills.
The Taipei 101 climb is much more than a visual spectacle; it represents Honnold’s relentless pursuit of challenging his limits in the climbing world.
