Majestic Mt. Stanely, invincible Yannick Floha, climbing legends and more
Welcome to the Twenty-Eight edition of ClimbLife - our bi-monthly newsletter where we bring to you a curated collection of climbing facts & history, the latest news, the latest products in our offering, and the climber of the edition.
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Climbing Facts & History
Mount Stanley – Africa’s Glaciated Giant
Mount Stanley, also known as Mount Ngaliema, rises majestically within the Rwenzori Mountains along the border of Uganda and the Democratic Republic of the Congo. Standing at 5,109 meters (16,763 feet), it is the highest peak in both countries and the fourth-highest mountain in Africa.
Despite being located near the equator, Mount Stanley supports permanent glaciers due to its extreme altitude, making it one of the few glaciated regions on the continent. The mountain lies within the Rwenzori Mountains National Park, renowned for its dramatic landscapes, rare vegetation, and unique alpine ecosystems.
Mount Stanley consists of several distinct summits, the highest being Margherita Peak, followed by Alexandra and Albert peaks. The first successful ascent was achieved in 1906 by an Italian expedition led by the Duke of the Abruzzi.
Named after explorer Sir Henry Morton Stanley, the mountain is part of the legendary “Mountains of the Moon.” Its challenging terrain, unpredictable weather, and stunning beauty make it one of Africa’s most remarkable natural landmarks.
In The News
Yannick Flohé Sends Excalibur (9b+) in Arco
German climber Yannick Flohé has successfully climbed Excalibur (9b+), one of the hardest sport routes in the world, located in Drena near Arco, Italy. First ascended by Stefano Ghisolfi, the route is known for its short length, extreme steepness, and a powerful crux involving tiny holds and a demanding two-finger pocket.
Flohé began working on the route earlier in 2025 and completed the ascent after 19 sessions, battling skin issues, marginal conditions, and repeated falls at the final crux. The route demands exceptional finger strength, precision, and mental resilience, making it a benchmark climb at the top end of modern sport climbing.
With this ascent, Flohé joins a very small group of climbers who have successfully sent Excalibur. He described the climb as intense but deeply satisfying and noted that it marked the completion of his final major lead project of the year.
The send further cements Flohé’s position among the world’s elite sport climbers and highlights the continued progression at the highest grades.
Product Spotlight
INDUS 11 mm Semi-Static Rope | Built for Precision & Safety
The INDUS 11 mm Semi-Static Rope is engineered for professionals who operate in high-risk vertical environments where reliability is non-negotiable. Designed in compliance with CE EN 1891 Type A standards, it delivers controlled elongation, high tensile strength, and consistent performance under load.
Its kernmantle construction ensures an optimal balance between durability and handling. The abrasion-resistant sheath protects the core from friction, sharp edges, and repeated use, while maintaining smooth movement through descenders, ascenders, and rigging devices. The 11 mm diameter offers excellent grip and control, even with gloves or in challenging conditions. Practical features such as clear midpoint marking and ultrasonically sealed rope ends enhance usability, safety checks, and rope lifespan. Whether used for rope access, industrial maintenance, rescue operations, or fixed-line systems, the INDUS 11 mm supports confident movement and secure positioning.
Built to perform in demanding environments, this rope prioritizes safety, consistency, and long-term reliability, making it a dependable choice for professionals who work at height every day.
Babsi Zangerl – Rock Climbing’s All-Round Icon
Barbara “Babsi” Zangerl (born 24 May 1988) is an Austrian professional rock climber widely considered one of the strongest all-around climbers in the world. She has excelled across every major discipline of bouldering, sport, traditional, multi-pitch, and big-wall climbing, often setting new benchmarks for female climbers.
In 2008, she became the first woman to climb a boulder graded 8A+/8B (V12/13). She later redpointed sport routes up to 9a+ (5.15a) and achieved multiple first female free ascents on some of the world’s most demanding traditional and big wall routes, including major lines on El Capitan and the Nameless Tower. In 2024, she made history by becoming the first climber to flash a route on El Capitan.
Beyond grades and records, Babsi is admired for her versatility, composure, and commitment to adventure climbing. Her achievements have earned her international recognition, including major adventure awards. Outside of climbing, she trained as a medical radiographer and often climbs with her partner, Italian climber Jacopo Larcher.
Industry insights
Nepal Mountaineering Association: Building a Safer and Sustainable Himalayan Future
Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA) is Nepal’s premier non-profit organization dedicated to the development and promotion of mountaineering, mountain tourism, and the protection of Himalayan environments. Established in 1973, the association plays a central role in regulating climbing activities, issuing permits for designated peaks, and strengthening Nepal’s global mountaineering reputation.
Beyond administration, NMA actively invests in capacity building through professional mountaineering training, high-altitude rescue programs, and safety awareness initiatives. These efforts aim to develop skilled guides, improve expedition standards, and reduce risks in high-mountain environments.
Environmental conservation remains a core focus. NMA promotes sustainable tourism practices, supports clean-up campaigns, and advocates for the preservation of fragile alpine ecosystems and mountain cultures. The upcoming Nepal Mountaineering Training Institute reflects the association’s long-term vision to create world-class training infrastructure for mountaineers and mountain professionals.
Through regulation, education, environmental stewardship, and community engagement, NMA continues to shape a safer, more sustainable future for mountaineering in Nepal.
Explore Nepal Mountaineering Association
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