Max Bertone, 16, sends TCT (9a) 3rd try

Max Bertone, little brother to Oriane who did his first 8c+in 2019 at age 12, has done his first 9a, TCT, at Gravere, video. "3rd attempt. I fell at the last move at the 2nd one, so I was almost sure to send the route this time. Felt soft but it's the first for me and I don't have enough experience to propose a personal grade. Great line!"

You just pulled off a third try 9a ascent?
🤣 I actually did it in 3 days, I had only 1 try per day because of the crimps hurting my fingers. The first attempt was close to 1 hour! I didn’t watch any videos so I had to find the beta myself.

What are your summer plans?
My summer plan is to continue climbing outdoors around Briançon, and maybe participate in the World Cup in Briançon if I’m taken [selected] 🤞.

Last year, Max won the Youth World Championship and this year he has won the two Euro Youth Cups he has participated in. When it comes to bouldering, he has done five 8B's and he was #4 and #5 in the Euro Cups last year. (c) Tom Redfern