Dylan Chuat repeats Move (9b/+) at Flatanger

Three years ago, I first discovered Flatanger. Back then, I climbed most of the 8c's as well as Thor’s Hammer. Since that trip, the idea of coming back has never left my mind. For me, Flatanger is a perfect crag: it feels like the most beautiful bouldering sections all gathered on fifty meters of overhang. Without a doubt, it’s my favorite crag in the world.

This year, I decided it was time to take the next step. For a long time, I’ve wanted to try a 9b or even harder  — a line that would truly push me to my limits. Until now, I had only tried climbs where I knew, from the very first attempt, that I would eventually succeed. But Move felt different: freed by Adam Ondra in 2013, it’s a logical, natural line that perfectly fits my vision of climbing. At this level, a 100% natural 9b or harder route is incredibly rare — almost nonexistent today — so choosing Move was obvious to me.

For my first real big climbing trip, I had planned three full months in Norway. Conditions were far from easy: almost a whole month was un-climbable due to heatwaves. I used that time to visit the Lofoten Islands with my girlfriend and to work as a route setter in Oslo. The weather was a constant challenge, but I never lost hope.

In the beginning, I quickly felt close to sending the route. But I soon realised I lacked the specific endurance required for the cave, and that long break away from Flatanger felt endless. At times, I even felt like I was wasting precious time. Still, once I came back, progress was fast: strong links, two very close redpoint attempts falling on the last crux… and finally, on my third serious try, everything clicked, and I sent the route.

I remember clipping the chains vividly. For a few seconds, I wasn’t sure if I had really done the route or if it was just a long link. I didn’t scream right away — I was in a pure flow state, carried entirely by the moment. But this time, it was real.

For me, this ascent is more than just a sporting achievement: it’s the realisation of years of dreams, missed trips, injuries, and doubts. It also feels like the first step of a new chapter. I want to go further, to take on more lines at this level and beyond. To make that possible, I’ll need to free up more time and hopefully find the right support. But I believe this climb marks the beginning of a long journey ahead.

- Dylan Chuat, Switzerland