Maël Musson climbs Valhalla (9a)

Maël Musson, who two years ago, at age 17, did his first 9a, has sent Valhalla (9a) in Flatanger, in just six sessions. (c) Christelle Lafont

Can you tell us more about the ascent?
Valhalla is a 70-metre route through the Flatanger cave. It consists of two parts. An approach of around 35m: Odin's eye a classic 8c+ in the cave. Then comes a second part worth around 8c or 8c+ according to previous climbers to have done the route (more like 8c in my opinion). My aim was to do two routes on this trip: Valhalla and Thor's Hammer, another 9a After checking both, I knew that Valhalla suited me perfectly and that I could hope to do it quickly. So I concentrated mainly on Valhalla to start.

I tried the second part first, as I'd done a few try on the first last year and knew it wouldn't give me too much trouble. During my first two sessions I found some great betas that enabled me to do the cruxes of the second part without forcing myself too much. Now I had to wedge the first part so I could try it from the ground. In 4 attempts, I managed to pass the 8c+ approach. All I had to do was fight my way to the end. And two sessions later I put in this incredible try where everything went perfectly. I did the route still feeling good, still feeling in control. It was a really incredible feeling! I didn't think I could do this route in just 6 days, so I'm really happy. The good thing is that now I still have plenty of time to hope to make Thor's Hammer!