BURSTOn October 4, Norweigan climber Leo Bøe sent Change in the Hanshelleren cave in Flatanger, Norway. Change was established by Adam Ondra in October 2012 when he was only 19 years old. It was the world’s first 5.15c (9b+). The line consists of two distinct halves. Change P1 5.15a features a shoulder-wrecking crux that has shut down many climbers over the years. The full-length Change takes Change P1 and adds a 5.14c/d pitch on top, upping the total grade to 5.15c. Bøe’s send comes roughly one year after he sent Change P1.
Change has now seen five ascents by elite climbers since being established by Ondra. In addition to Bøe’s recent tick, Stefano Ghisolfi, Seb Bouin, Alex Megos, and Jorge Díaz-Rullo have all clipped the chains. Of note, Ondra did not use knee pads when he FA’d Change. Every subsequent ascent has employed the use of two kneepads, except for Megos, who opted for only one on his right leg. Bouin, Megos, Díaz-Rullo, and Bøe have suggested a slash grade of 5.15b/c.
“Months of effort exploded into emotions yesterday when I finally clipped the chains,” said an exuberant Bøe yesterday on Instagram. “I’m beyond proud and relieved! I’m left with so many great lessons from this experience as I’ve pushed myself so far, both mentally and physically.”
Change is Bøe’s first of the grade. Last month, he made the first ascent of Hafgúfa 5.15a in Trondheim, Norway. It was his second 5.15a ever, his first being Change P1 in September of last year. He has at least sixteen 5.14d routes to his name, and of course, has now added one of the most famous hard routes in the world to his resume.
Adam Ondra’s FA of Change 5.15c
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