Taipei, Taiwan — On January 25, renowned rock climber Alex Honnold achieved a significant milestone by becoming the first individual to ascend the Taipei 101 skyscraper without any safety equipment. The astounding 1,667-foot (508-meter) climb took him approximately 91 minutes, and the entire event was streamed live on the internet.
Honnold is celebrated globally for his distinctive style of “free solo” climbing—where he ascends alone without the use of ropes or harnesses, relying solely on his physical ability and skill. He utilizes chalk on his hands to enhance grip, allowing him to scale challenging terrains. His remarkable ascent of El Capitan in California’s Yosemite National Park in 2017, which measured 3,000 feet (915 meters), put him in the spotlight and resulted in an Oscar-winning documentary about the feat.
Taipei 101, which boasts 101 floors, was the tallest building in the world from 2004 until 2010 and currently ranks as the 11th tallest. It was a long-held ambition for Honnold to conquer this iconic structure, differing significantly from his usual natural rock climbing environments. The building’s construction comprises glass and metal, making it a distinct challenge compared to natural rock formations. Additionally, the urban setting presented unique challenges, as Honnold was climbing in front of a large audience and in the presence of cameras from Netflix, which broadcasted the climb live.
Starting at the bottom of the building, Honnold made his way up a corner, utilizing the metal framework for grip. Onlookers in nearby offices could spot him easily in his vibrant red shirt, black pants, and yellow shoes. As he ascended, his figure gradually diminished in size against the towering skyscraper. Throughout the climb, he interacted with spectators, pausing occasionally to rest or acknowledge cheers from the crowd.
Upon reaching the summit, Honnold celebrated his accomplishment by waving to his supporters below. In a post-climb reflection, he remarked on the breathtaking views of Taipei and expressed his exhilaration. “What a beautiful way to see Taipei,” he commented. Honnold also shared a motivational message, encouraging others to maximize their time and effort. “If you work really hard, you can do hard things,” he declared, embodying the spirit of determination and triumph that characterized his daring ascent.
This remarkable feat not only demonstrates Honnold’s extraordinary climbing skills but also serves as an inspiring reminder of the incredible heights that can be reached with perseverance and courage.