Elisa Lauretano does Sheep Legend (8A+)

Elisa Lauretano, who in April sent her second 8B, has repeated Cristian Core’s Sheep Legend (8A+) in Rifugio Barbara - Lowrie.

Can you tell us more about Sheep Legend?
It doesn’t get many repeats because, aesthetically, it doesn’t jump out next to the other lines in the area. It’s a low, committing traverse on slopers and pinches with movement that feels way more like lead climbing than typical bouldering.

In summer 2024 I had a few chances to escape Turin’s heat and train at Rifugio Barbara, and this traverse was perfect for it. Dialing the beta took a while, but the real puzzle was finding the right sequence on the final crimps to actually send.

I’d already linked all the moves, but I never got a proper try. The condensation there is no joke, it soaks the rock and you can’t ignore it. Just a few days ago, after watching everyone climb all day, I stuck around as dusk hit. With my boyfriend’s help I found a way more efficient sequence through the last crux and after a rest day, I finally topped out.

What are your summer plans?
Last summer I couldn't climb at all because of an injury, so my main goal this summer is simple: climb as much as I can 😄 My dream line would be Hazel Grace (8B+) at Gotthard Pass, but let's see if I get the chance!