Weekly climbing update: Highlights from the rock faces of Istria

Another thrilling week in the climbing world unfolds, bringing forth tales of triumph and tenacity from the limestone cliffs of Istria. Let’s dive into the highlights:

14 years old American girl Maya Ene returned to the big cave of Osp where she smashed the endurance testpiece of Bitka s stalaktiti (8b) on her second attempt. Besides that, she has also done Helihopter v omaki (8b). The later one was also climbed by Italian local climber Giulio Baxa.

In the neighbouring Mišja peč, Pole Tymon Herod redpointed the powerful Missing drink (8b+), while 16 years old Slovenian girl Teja Bobnar clipped the chains of Iglu (8a). In the same crag, Matija Zupan reached his personal best by climbing the artificial classic Mrtvaški ples (8b).

Above the bustling city of Trieste lies the hidden gem of Baratro, where Italian powerhouse Stefano Carnati continues to leave his mark. Carnati astonished the climbing community by onsighting the bouldery challenge of Violenza carnale (8a) and making the first repeat ascent of El lado oscuro de la fuerza (8c) in approximately a decade, following in the footsteps of Gabriele Gorobey – Sbisi‘s groundbreaking first ascent.

In Croatian part of Istria, more precise in Buzetski kanjon in sector Pengari, local female climber Ivana Staraj took down the fabolous Too late (8a).

As the weekend approaches, the weather forecasts paint a picture-perfect scene with abundant sunshine and warm temperatures gracing the crags. However, a gentle reminder that some light showers are expected post-Monday. So seize the opportunity, climb on, and revel in the beauty of the rock!

Have fun!