Rock climber Alex Honnold’s rope-free ascent to the top of Taipei 101

American rock climber Alex Honnold accomplished a remarkable feat by ascending the Taipei 101 skyscraper without any ropes or protective gear. The crowd below cheered as he reached the top of the 1,667-foot tower after about 90 minutes of climbing. Donning a red short-sleeve shirt, Honnold waved his arms triumphantly, enjoying the breathtaking view and windy conditions.

Reflecting on his climb, Honnold described the experience as incredible, emphasizing the beauty of the day and the stunning perspective of Taipei from atop the skyscraper. Known for his previous ropeless climb up Yosemite National Park’s El Capitan, he navigated Taipei 101 using small outcroppings and ornamental structures, showcasing his skill and strength.

The climb, broadcast live on Netflix with a 10-second delay, was initially scheduled for Saturday but was postponed due to rain. Honnold, while initially feeling the intensity of the crowd’s presence, expressed gratitude for their support and celebratory atmosphere throughout the climb. While he wasn’t the first climber to ascend Taipei 101, his ropeless accomplishment added an element of thrill and concern over the daring nature of the endeavor.

French climber Alain Robert had climbed the building with ropes in 2004, but Honnold’s decision to tackle the skyscraper without any safety equipment brought both excitement and ethical questions regarding the risks involved in such a high-profile event. Despite the challenges and attention, Honnold’s climb stands as a testament to his skill, determination, and courage in the world of rock climbing.