Hannes Van Duysen Becomes Sixth Climber Ever to Conquer Dangerous Es Pontas Rock

mallorca - Hannes Van Duysen, at the age of 20, has successfully become the sixth climber ever to conquer the perilous arch-shaped Es Pontas rock in Mallorca.

Hannes Van Duysen, at the age of 20, has successfully become the sixth climber ever to conquer the perilous arch-shaped Es Pontas rock in Mallorca. Es Pontas is an arch-shaped rock protruding above the water, with a challenging climb that spans twenty meters. Despite its difficulty, Hannes managed to complete the climb in five grueling minutes. Preparation and technical exploration are crucial for such feats. According to Hannes, a successful climb is heavily dependent on ideal humidity levels. High humidity can make the rocks too slippery, leading to potential falls.

Known among climbers for its almost mythical status, the 'deep-water solo' climb requires exceptional skill and tenacity. Hannes attempted the climb four times over several days, with previous tries ending in the water, requiring significant recovery time. The Es Pontas, rated at 9a+, is not only one of the most challenging climbs but also features a section in the middle that necessitates a leap known as 'the swing.' This move demands precise coordination and strength, as failure to secure a good grip during the landing will result in a fall into the sea.

Hannes's achievement marks a significant milestone, making him only the sixth climber to conquer Es Pontas. Describing it as a lifelong goal, Hannes shared his elation on Instagram. The first successful climber of Es Pontas was American Chris Sharma in 2007.

Hannes, who started climbing at the age of seven, holds a top-tier athlete status with Sport Flanders and competed in Boulder and Lead disciplines at the Paris Olympics.