Vadim Timonov makes first ascent of Blackflip sit, 8C+/9A boulder at Djan-tugan in Russia

Vadim Timonov reports he has successfully completed Blackflip sit, a boulder problem located in the Djan-tugan area the foot of Mt. Elbrus in Russia for which he has now proposed the massive grade 8C+/9A. As such it stands as one of the hardest boulders in the world.

The 30-year-old invested three trips to the area of about 2-3 weeks each. He sent the 8C stand start at the end of April, and then required a further fortnight for the sit. This entails 13 hard moves which test both leg and core.

Timonov is renowned for his raw power and immense strength, and he has climbed more than fifteen 8C boulders in the past. An 8C+ repeat currently eludes him, most probably because on his trips abroad he tends to focus more on quantity rather than working just one line. Unsurprisingly, his list of 8B flashes and 8B+ repeats is jaw-dropping.

Nevertheless, the jump from 8C to 8C+ is undeniably enormous and when asked about the grade, he explained to planetmountain "I have tried a lot of 8C+ boulders and also attempted 9A, so I have something to compare it with. I feel your skepticism though and understand it. I too am worried and a little afraid to state such a grade, but I thought long and hard before committing. I have tried a lot of hard stuff in the world and feel I have quite a lot of experience. I hope that I have provided an adequate assessment, but of course I am also ready to accept mistakes should I be wrong. Regardless of the final grade, I consider this as perhaps one of my finest achievements in rock climbing to date!"