Milena and Hania send Cringer (8b+)

Milena Ciechanowska [pictured] and Hanna Kozina, both 17 years old, have sent Cringer (8b+) in Frankenjura. Mateusz Haladaj, who has done 19 routes 9a and beyond, is working for the Polish Climbing Federation. "I've been coaching Milena for 2 full years now and occasionally working with Hania. They are part of the Youth Climbing Team and go out for climbing trips twice a year as a part of the Federation program. In the case of Cringer, they started working the route during our climbing camp in June and now they finished it on their own. As a coach, I believe that setting an individual program is only part of the task. Helping define right goals, finding optimal beta, working on tactics and sharing experience can be a great part of succeeding in outdoor climbing."

Can you tell us about your ascents of Cringer?
Milena: This is my style - long routes with cruxes separated by good rest positions. ‘Cringer’ is an outstanding line where getting into the flow and diving into the climbing is just a matter of seconds. I had a great time figuring out the beta with my friend Hanna Kozina. From the first go, I knew I wanted to send it. The mutual support and a loud voice of cheering gave us an additional boost. We did our best, sending our first 10+ on the same day. It was a special moment, I’m happy we did that together.

Hania: From the moment I saw Cringer, I just knew I was going to enjoy it. Every part of this route encouraged me to climb more and try harder– an easy, but interesting start, two cruxes separated by a good rest position, and a less complex finish that still required concentration to avoid slipping by the anchor. The second pumpy crux with its beautiful sequence, is what makes this one of the best routes I've ever done. The first crux was a bit of a challenge for me at first. I kept falling almost right at the start, and it was tough to believe I could send it. But working on the route with Milena and having support from her and my friends gave me incredible motivation. When I finally got through the first crux, the second one didn't stop me. I'm glad I started and sent it together with Milena on the same day – it was the best part of it!