«I haven't projected a boulder for this long in 20 years» | Uncut video

British trad climber James Pearson secures a repeat of the 8C boulder Mystic River in Brione. This uncut video shows his ascent.

His last long-term bouldering project was a while ago. Around twenty years ago, the Brit James Pearson in the highball The Buttermilker in Bishop doggedly. He invested a total of 10 days until he managed to climb through.

James Pearson had to invest 10 sessions in climbing the boulder Mystic River in Brione_Image Sam Pratt
James Pearson had to invest 10 sessions in climbing the Mystic River boulder in Brione. (Image Sam Pratt)

After that, I concentrated on other forms of climbing and didn't invest as much time in bouldering.

James Pearson

Not only has Pearson, in the two decades since the Buttermilker was committed, focused mostly on Tradklettern He has also experienced some changes in his private life. He is now a father of two and, together with professional climber Caroline Ciavaldini the challenge of balancing a passion for climbing and family life.

James Pearson climbing the boulder Mystic River (8C)

He has evidently retained the necessary energy to crack the most difficult boulders. A few days ago, Pearson managed the third ascent of the 8C boulder Mystic River, in the Ticino bouldering mecca BrioneHe began his first attempts in February 2023 and invested a total of ten sessions spread over two years in the ascent.

James Pearson climbing the Mystic River boulder in Brione_Image Sam Pratt
James Pearson climbing the Mystic River boulder in Brione. (Picture Sam Pratt)

When I saw footage of Mystic River a few years ago, I was amazed by the beauty of the rock and the complexity. I knew immediately that I wanted to climb this boulder one day.

James Pearson

The boulder Mystic River was discovered in January 2021 by local climber Giuliano Cameroni first climbed and the same day by Shawn Raboutou .

Giuliano Cameroni during the first ascent of the boulder

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Credits: Cover picture Sam Pratt

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