In my opinion, to be able to climb at this level (world class), you have to have a strong passion and devotion to the sport. Endless hours training, honing technique and planning these climbs. But I do believe speed climbing can become highly addictive. Trying to be the fastest can become an obsession and corners will inevitably be cut when physical limits have been maxed out.
Best,
Ken
I agree; they have a strong passion, a deep connection with the rocks they are climbing, ...their agility, physical strength...like a mountain.
Practice, experience, the will to push the limits, the feeling of the adrenaline rush, the dance with the rocks.
I don't see it as an addiction more than a way of life. It's a choice because it makes you feel good and alive, alive to the max. You have what it takes, you make a communion and you follow that path, that lifestyle, that union, that connection where you find the meaning of life, of your own innerself. It's your destiny.
It's not for the glory, not for the competition, not for the money and prestige; it's for your own balance in life where you are @ peace with you, with the rock and the rest of the world...the sky and the eagle and the sun. ...The true rock climbers.
Speed is more challenging, putting your limits to the test of conquest and perils.
It's part of human nature in some of us with non-man-made natural structures.
Some climb skyscrapers, some climb K2 and Everest, some climb icefalls, some climb rocks...90 degree steep and even steeper...under.
Some climb El Capitan in less than two hours...wow!
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That's my take from interviews and from my way of thinking. ...Primarily from my way of thinking. ...A natural life's balance from your own challenges.
If you deviate from that balance you lose your grip, and fly down with the consequences.