Ruth Schluga does Janja (8c)

Ruth Schluga, with six 8b+’ under her belt, has completed Janja (8c) in Falegnameria ”Aesthetic, natural, and incredibly good. This route felt like it was meant for me as my first of the grade.✨” (c) Daniel Rogger

Can you tell us more about the ascent and the process behind?
Climbing in Falegnameria, this line caught me right away — it just inspired me. My boyfriend told me it was one of the most beautiful routes of the grade — technical, aesthetic, and perfectly my style: no crazy stopper move, but a mix of power‑endurance, precision and thoughtful technical movement. I felt ready to try it and immediately made progress. Over three weekends I fell high up several times — once even on the last move. But I knew I could do it. During my send go I told myself: “The route doesn’t know it’s 8c. Just enjoy the climb and don’t be nervous.” That relaxed mindset made all the difference. I climbed calmly, focused — and suddenly I was at the anchor. My first 8c. Yay!

What is your climbing background?
I started climbing in 2016 at 16 and immediately fell in love with it. In 2019 I climbed my first 8a, which I thought would be my lifetime goal. I never did competitions or had a coach; climbing was always personal for me — solving puzzles on the rock, learning from every attempt. What matters most is the connection to the route. When the mental side is right, my body can go further than I ever imagined.