Fabrizio Peri repeats Grandi Gesti 9a at Sperlonga

GRANDI GESTI by Fabrizio Peri

On Friday, January 17th, I managed to send Grande Gesti at Sperlonga's Grotta dell’aeronauta. Freed in January 2009 by Gianluca Daniele and graded 9a, it was repeated two years later by Helmut Kotter (Edelrid athlete) who confirmed the grade and then, less than a month ago, by Stefano Ghisolfi.

I was overjoyed! After having sent several 8c's at Ferentillo, at Grotti and Grotta dell’aeronauta, I wanted to raise the bar and try a 9a. I travelled to Spain and tried Era Bella at Margalef but soon gave up as I realised that this was a massive undertaking and that my 4 days off every six months wouldn't suffice. I had to settle for a project closer to home so I chose this route. It certainly required great commitment: emotionally, the training and above all the time taken from my family.

The Grottone provided me this chance. It's quite particular, the climbing is athletic and requires great stamina. And also great fun. But the most important thing is that you can try a route here regularly as climbing is possible in all weather conditions (except in summer when it gets too hot).

I hope my achievement can act as a stimulus to those who, like me, 42-year-old with a beautiful family and job, still want to fuel their passions and strive to improve.

I'd like to say thanks to two people who have made this "undertaking" possible: to my wife Donatella who has always offered her support and also to my friend Roberto who has always encouraged me to test the limit and who has always accompanied me along the way with a smile and positive words of encouragement.