Andy Salo Sends Bro-Zone, Gunks Hardest Route at 5.14b

The Gunks in New York has long been one of North America’s top climbing areas. Andy Salo, 33, has made the first ascent of Bro-Zone 5.14b, the hardest route at the Gunks. The hard line is a 17-metre direct start to Ozone 5.14aR.

I have to spray cause he won't: @andywsalo just did the first ascent of the direct start to Ozone–working name, Bro-Zone(probably around 5.14b r ish)–making it the hardest route in the #Gunks. It was so inspiring to watch and long time in the making. If anyone deserve a moment to revel he does. If you see him, give him a hug or buy him a beer! So proud of you babe! @gunksapps @monvoyageneon

A photo posted by Whitney Boland (@whitneyboland) on Oct 29, 2016 at 2:16pm PDT

Other hard routes at the Gunks include Survival of the Fittest 5.13a, Project X 5.12d, Happiness is a 110° Wall, Disorderly Conduct V13 and Genghis Khan V13. Salo has a number of hard Gunks sends to his name, including the third ascent of Planet Claire 5.14, which was established in the 1980s by Scott Franklin.

Comic book filter of our very own Gunks super hero @andywsalo. When he's not saving the world he crushes rocks. After a long battle over many days, a cool breeze rolled in and Andy's determination and hard work paid off. He put to rest one of the hardest climbs in the Gunks (Planet Clair 5.14). Big up to a great friend and one of the best climbers this side of the Mississippi. Keep inspiring buddy! Now you can eat all the dessert you want… At least for a day or two, on to the next one! #lostcity #gunks #rockclimbing #organicclimbing #bolo

A photo posted by Ken Murphy (@msdubs007) on May 22, 2015 at 5:11am PDT