Dave Graham, 41, Climbs a New V16
Watch a short 2022 profile on the top American boulderer in a short film below
Dave Graham has made the first ascent of Celestite V16 in Valle Bavona, Switzerland. The 41-year-old has been one of the world’s leading boulderers for over 20 years.
According to 8a.nu, Graham climbed two V16s and seven V15s in 2022, making it one of his best years to date. When asked about his strength, Graham said, “I feel stronger honestly. Not sure why? Maybe smarter? Healthier lifestyle. Ah just eating better, no partying, lots of good rest. Better attitude about climbing, more patient and also less concerned with conditions. Always finding new solutions, not getting angry.”
Graham said that after three sessions on the project he pieced it together, noting that problems of this difficulty often take longer. “I do boulders that are really my antistyle, too,” he said. “So I assume they should be hard but I think it really helped my mental game, to push longer and harder. Never get pissed, it is not wise. I am feeling strong.”
Graham has been one of the world’s leading climbers for two decades. Born in Maine, he started climbing in 1997 thanks to one of his ski teammates bringing him to try. Within a year, he climbed The Present 5.14a, and then quickly became one of the strongest climbers in the world. In 2005, he moved to Europe and made the first ascent of The Story of Two Worlds V15, and in 2008 he opened The Island V15. In fall 2020, he made the fifth ascent of Ali Hulk Sit Start Extension Total 5.15b in Rodellar.
2022 Dave Graham Profile
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