Dave Graham establishes Euclase 8C+ boulder problem in Valle Bavona, Switzerland

More or less a fortnight after repeating Jimmy Webb’s 8C La Rustica in Valle Bavona, Switzerland, Dave Graham made the first ascent of Euclase in the same Ticino valley. The American found the line in 2005 and tried it on and off for various seasons before figuring out the complex moves and making the send on 20 April.

Writing on his IG account, Graham explained "It's a labyrinth of grips and structures, all perfectly sculpted on immaculate rock. With 19 hand movements, 21 foot moves, and 4 kneebars, its a game of connecting body positions. It’s one of the most technical climbs I have ever encountered and challenged my ability to toe-hook, heel-hook, knee-bar, and footwork like unlike any other boulder that I’ve tried in my life. The top-out adds a crimpy and dangerous no-fall-zone to the equation, completing the line with a real mental factor."

The 40-year-old continues to climb at his zenith and after  describing the problem as "one of the hardest lines I have climbed to date", graded it 8C+. With 9A being the current maximum, should the grade stick this would make Euclase one of the hardest blocs in the world.