Schenk flashes 5.14d in Italy

South Tyrolean climber Filip Schenk, 26, flashed Vivi si Muore 5.14d at La Stazione in Piedmont, Italy, completing the route in around 15 minutes.

Three cruxes tested his skills

The route features three distinct cruxes. Schenk found the opening section most intense but controllable, with the final section presenting the biggest challenge.

The blind move made it risky

A low-percentage move in the final section leads to a hold that cannot be seen from below. Schenk stuck the blind move on his first attempt, turning tension into what he called pure joy.

“For the flash, I was more worried about the last section.”

Competition background helps flashing

Schenk credits his competition climbing experience with developing his flash and onsight skills. He emphasizes reading the route, choosing the right beta, and managing tension on a single attempt.

“You need to be able to read the route from the ground, figure out which beta suits you best, and then, on that one attempt, manage the tension.”

Schenk joins elite flash company

Adam Ondra holds the hardest flash ever with 5.15a. Alex Megos has flashed 5.14d three times, and Janja Garnbret has arguably flashed 5.14d. Schenk's ascent puts him among the world's best flashers.

Schenk also sent 5.14d recently

Days before the flash, Schenk made a second-go ascent of Trainspotting 5.14d/15a. He has also sent to 5.15b with Erebor, showing his overall climbing strength.