Matty Hong could now, after twenty! years, Matty Hong sends the first repetition of „Flex Luthor“ (5.14c/8c+) in Main Elk Creek (Colorado). Matty saw the route more in difficulty grade 9b! Whether the route has changed due to hold broken, or Tommy Caldwell is just that good, only further repetitions will probably show.

For Matty Hong, it would be the second 9b route after „Fight or Flight„.

„Yesterday was special; I poured everything into this climb. ‘Flex Luthor,’ established by @tommycaldwell in 2003, has been one of the best and most challenging climbs of my life. Tommy’s ascent, nearly 20 years ago is truly amazing and proves how far ahead he was as a climber and visionary. It’s undeniable some aspects of the route have changed over the years, however I believe the majority of the climb has stayed intact. With my best judgement, I’m proposing 5.15b. Thank you to @margojain for your endless support, patience, and love. I couldn’t have done it without you. „ 

Photo: (c) Margo Hayes