Alex Honnold Conquers Taipei 101 in Netflix’s Skyscraper Live Event
Alex Honnold has successfully free solo climbed Taipei 101, completing his journey in just over 90 minutes. This remarkable feat marks a new milestone as the tallest urban free solo climb globally.
Details of the Climb
Honnold’s ascent was part of Netflix’s Skyscraper Live event. The event experienced a delay due to inclement weather, but it aired to enthusiastic viewers. Honnold’s triumph took place at Taiwan’s iconic Taipei 101 building, where he stood on the structure’s small sphere, celebrating his achievement.
Preparation and Mechanics
- Event Host: Former SportsCenter anchor Elle Duncan.
- Special Guests: WWE Superstar Seth Rollins, climber Emily Harrington, and NASA alum Mark Rober.
Before the climb began, Honnold communicated with his spouse, Sanni McCandless, and stretched in preparation. Thousands of fans gathered outside a designated exclusion zone to cheer him on.
Climbing Phases
Honnold’s climb consisted of three distinct stages:
- Slabs: The initial 372-foot section, serving as a warmup.
- Bamboo Boxes: An ascent of 900 feet featuring eight balconies.
- The Tower: The final stage encompassed rings and spires, culminating in the building’s summit.
Challenges Faced
Throughout his climb, Honnold encountered obstacles, including irregular protrusions resembling Chinese talismans. Despite these challenges, he maintained his composure, often engaging with fans and using a microphone to share his experience.
Technical Aspects
The broadcast included drone footage and pre-recorded segments showcasing the climb’s technical intricacies. A 10-second delay was integrated to ensure safety during the live event. Viewers were also cautioned against imitating Honnold’s actions, as urban climbing is illegal.
Community Support
In anticipation of Honnold’s climb, local buildings displayed messages of support such as “Go Alex!” Residents also made offerings for his safety during this daring challenge. Despite intermittent communication issues with the broadcast team, Honnold expressed his determination during the climb, emphasizing the importance of pacing through challenging conditions.
Honnold’s latest accomplishment further solidifies his reputation in the climbing community. He previously gained fame for free soloing El Capitan, a feat documented in the award-winning film Free Solo.
