American daredevil free-climbs Taiwan’s tallest building | National | ktbs.com
When Alex Honnold steps onto a vertical surface, the world tends to hold its breath—and this time was no different.
On a bright, windy Sunday in Taipei, the legendary American rock climber pulled off yet another jaw-dropping feat: climbing Taipei 101, one of the tallest skyscrapers on Earth, without ropes or protective gear. Yes—free solo, all the way up.
A Once-in-a-Lifetime View from 508 Meters Up
As cheers echoed from the streets below, Honnold reached the top of the tower’s spire nearly 90 minutes after starting his ascent. Wearing a simple red short-sleeve shirt, he celebrated the moment by waving to the crowd—calm, composed, and visibly moved.
Later, describing the experience, Honnold said the view was nothing short of breathtaking. The wind was strong, the balance delicate, and the stakes incredibly high. Yet, for him, it was also a rare and beautiful way to see Taipei—one that very few humans will ever experience.
How He Climbed One of the World’s Tallest Skyscrapers
Taipei 101 stands 508 meters (1,667 feet) tall, with 101 floors of steel, glass, and architectural complexity. Honnold climbed one corner of the building, using small L-shaped outcroppings as footholds. With only his hands and feet, he maneuvered past large ornamental structures that extend outward from the tower, pulling himself up inch by inch.
The most challenging section? The iconic middle portion known as the “bamboo boxes.”
These consist of eight stacked segments, each with eight floors of steep, overhanging climbs followed by narrow balconies. Honnold used those balconies strategically, pausing briefly to rest before pushing higher.
Why This Climb Matters
Honnold is already famous for his ropeless ascent of El Capitan in Yosemite National Park—a climb that redefined what humans thought was possible. Scaling Taipei 101 adds a new chapter to his legacy, blending extreme athleticism with urban architecture.
Beyond the spectacle, the climb highlights precision, preparation, and mental control at the highest level. It’s not just about strength—it’s about trust in one’s skill, awareness of risk, and absolute focus.
The Takeaway
Alex Honnold’s climb of Taipei 101 isn’t just another adrenaline-fueled headline. It’s a reminder of how far human capability can stretch when preparation meets courage. For spectators, it was thrilling. For climbers, it was historic. And for Taipei, it was a moment that placed the city squarely in the global spotlight—straight from the top.
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