Yannick Flohé flashes Foundations Edge (8C)

Yannick Flohé, who was fifth in the Innsbruck Lead WC two weeks ago, has created history by flashing Foundations Edge (8C) in Fionnay. Dave Graham put it up in 2013 and over the years, it has been repeated almost 20 times, everyone confirming the grade. (c) Max Reuber

What did go through your mind during the flash?
When I sent I couldn’t really believe it and felt a big relief because I knew for years that this was the one 8C in the world to flash. But I also got some doubts about the difficulty cause I was trying hard but non of the moves was really on the limit but maybe that was one reason why I sent. It’s not just one crux so you have to keep it together all the way to the good jug in the roof.

How long is it and how many hard moves?
I think about 10 moves to the finish jug and like 4 of them are hard.

Can you elaborate a bit about the grade?
I think it’s a soft 8C and I was surprised that nobody every downgraded it. I think compared to the other boulders here it makes sense, just the whole area feels soft to me but it’s also really basic and steep climbing.

What is next?
The Lead World Cup in Chamonix in two days.