American climber Keenan Takahashi has achieved the first ascent of The Gold Standard V15, a highball problem on the Golden Boulder in the Buttermilks. This climb incorporates a low start into the Standing on the Shoulders of Giants V9, initially established by Sonnie Trotter in 2011. The route had remained an open project for years, attracting attempts from top climbers like Chris Sharma and Jason Kehl. A new film by Mellow, presented by ANTIGRAV and La Sportiva, chronicles Takahashi’s ascent.

By the Numbers
  • Duration of the documenting film: 17 minutes
  • Years Takahashi has been attempting: 6 seasons
  • Previous highball first ascents by Takahashi include V14, V13, and V12 climbs.
  • Notable ascents: V16 Insomniac in Colorado, V15s in the U.S., Japan, and South Africa.
State of Play
  • The Gold Standard was an unfinished project for over a decade.
  • Keenan Takahashi's send is a significant milestone in the climbing community.
  • The newly released film has brought considerable attention to the climb.
What's Next

Takahashi plans to continue pursuing other challenging projects he has his sights set on, building on the mental and physical breakthroughs he achieved with The Gold Standard. Anticipation is high for his next achievements.

Bottom Line

Keenan Takahashi's first ascent of The Gold Standard V15 not only showcases his personal climbing prowess but also sets a new benchmark in highball bouldering. This ascent reaffirms his status as an elite climber who consistently pushes the boundaries of the sport.