US rock climber Alex Honnold scaled Taipei 101, one of Asia's tallest skyscrapers, without ropes or a harness on Sunday, completing the ascent in 91 minutes. The 508-metre (1,667ft) building in Taiwan's capital was climbed using horizontal metal beams, with Honnold pulling himself up bare-handed. The event, originally scheduled for Saturday, was postponed due to rain.
The climb was broadcast live globally on Netflix as part of its Skyscraper Live programming. Honnold, 40, known for his ropeless ascent of El Capitan in Yosemite, said the experience was incredible despite strong winds. 'It was very windy, so I was like, don't fall off the spire,' he said. 'But it was, what an incredible position, what a beautiful way to see Taipei.'
The event drew criticism from some in the climbing community, who called it 'voyeuristic, ghoulish and irresponsible' given the risks of free soloing and Honnold's role as a husband and father. Honnold defended the climb, saying he hoped it would inspire others to pursue their own challenges. 'Often they'll watch something like this and it's a reminder that their time is finite and they should use it in the best way,' he said.
Honnold obtained full support from Taipei 101 and the city government. Taiwanese President Lai Ching-te congratulated Honnold on Facebook, noting the broadcast showcased Taiwan's warmth and scenery. Honnold is the first to climb the building without a rope; French climber Alain Robert scaled it with a rope in 2004. Robert, covering the event for CNN, said he was confident Honnold would succeed.
The climb featured a cheering crowd, unusual for Honnold's typically remote ascents. 'When I was leaving the ground, you're like oh it's kind of intense, there's so many people watching,' he said. 'But then honestly, they're all wishing me well.' Taipei 101, the world's tallest building from 2004 to 2010, has 101 floors, with the hardest section being the middle 64 floors.
