Boulder teen becomes 1st woman to summit difficult climb in record time

DENVER – A Colorado teen is making history by becoming the first woman to climb one of toughest routes for rock climbers in record time.

Margo Hayes, 19, of Boulder, spent a record seven days climbing La Rambla in Siurana, Catalonia (Spain), according to Rock and Ice magazine. The ascent was a confirmed 9a+/5.15a climb – one of the toughest grades given by sport climbers across the world.

“I am overwhelmed and humbled by the support I’ve received from the climbing community, and my family and friends near and far,” said Hayes in an Instagram post. “None of us achieves our dreams alone, we do so together, and build on those who have come before us.”

 

That moment when you send 'La Rambla' and become the first woman to climb (9a+ or 5.15a). Congratulations @margojain, a very well deserved send, and a big day for climbing.

A post shared by Matty Hong (@honngy) on

Feb 26, 2017 at 11:18am PST

Hayes was climbing in Spain for 10 days during a break from school – she is currently studying abroad in France – and she decided to climb the route, Rock and Ice mag report.

So what does this mean for rock climbing and for women participating in the sport?

"I think it represents more than the grade, it’s an example for women, and all climbers, that if they’re willing to put themselves out there, try really hard, and approach goals despite the imaginary boundaries, one can go further than they thought,” Jon Cardwell told Rock and Ice via email.