TAIPEI (TVBS News) — American climber Alex Honnold (霍諾德) said Sunday (Jan. 25) that his greatest challenge during his historic free solo ascent of Taipei 101 (台北101) was not the physical demands of scaling the 1,667-foot skyscraper (to roof, 508 meters) but staying calm with thousands of spectators watching his every move.
Honnold, 40, completed the climb in approximately 91 minutes without ropes or protective equipment, fulfilling a dream he first conceived more than a decade ago when he saw the building but could not obtain permission to climb it. He admitted feeling nervous at the start but said his anxiety faded as he ascended higher.
"I think starting felt, you know, I was a little more nervous getting off the ground," Honnold said at a post-climb news conference. "And then as I climbed, I relaxed more and more. And more, I was like, Oh, this is so fun. I mean, this is why I do it."
The climber, who became internationally famous after his 2017 free solo of El Capitan in Yosemite, said he hoped viewers would find their own inspiration from watching him. He acknowledged that most people will never attempt such a feat but suggested the climb could motivate others to pursue their own goals.
Despite the high-stakes nature of the climb, Honnold described the energy from the crowd as ultimately supportive rather than distracting. He said the festive atmosphere bolstered his confidence as he made his way up the bamboo-shaped tower.
Honnold said he remains motivated by objectives that challenge him in new ways and provide a reason to train. He did not specify his next major climbing target but indicated he would resume training immediately upon returning home. ◼
