American rock climber Alex Honnold made headlines recently by climbing the Taipei 101 skyscraper without any ropes or safety gear. This daring feat took place on Sunday, drawing cheers from a crowd that gathered to watch him tackle the 508-meter (1,667-foot) tower.
As he began his ascent, Honnold used horizontal metal beams, relying solely on his bare hands for grip. At one point, he paused to face the cheering audience, his bright red shirt a striking contrast against the tower’s steel. This climb, broadcast live on Netflix with a slight delay, was originally set for Saturday but was postponed by a day due to rain.
The climb raised important discussions about the ethics of live broadcasting a high-risk event. Honnold is well-known for his ropeless climb of El Capitan in Yosemite, but this challenge presented unique obstacles. He utilized small ledges on the building, navigating around elaborate structures that extend outward.
Taipei 101 has 101 floors, and the toughest section consists of 64 floors featuring “bamboo boxes,” a design that defines the building’s look. Each segment has steep climbs and balconies where Honnold could take brief breaks.
While he’s not the first to scale the skyscraper—French climber Alain Robert climbed it in 2004 during its grand opening—Honnold is the first to do so without safety equipment.
The online reaction has been mixed. Many praised Honnold’s skill and courage, while others expressed concern for the message such a stunt sends about risk-taking. A recent survey found that 65% of people believe extreme sports should come with stricter safety regulations, particularly when showcased publicly.
Honnold’s climb highlights both individual achievement and the broader implications of risk in sports. As climbing continues to grow in popularity, such discussions are vital for balancing thrill with safety.
For more details on climbing safety and risk management, check out resources from organizations like the American Alpine Club.
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