Sungsu Lee has ascended Shawn Raboutou’s boulder problem, Alphane V17, in Chironico, Switzerland, marking his second completion of this grade and positioning him among only ten climbers globally to have topped two V17 boulders. Lee described the experience as a mental challenge, highlighting the daily unpredictability of climbing conditions. Alphane was first climbed by Raboutou in April 2022, with subsequent repeats by notable climbers within months. The boulder has sparked debate over its grading, with climbers like Will Bosi and Simon Lorenzi weighing in on its difficulty. Lee's achievement follows a series of successful climbs, including V16s and a prominent V17 earlier this year.

By the Numbers
  • Only 10 climbers have accomplished two V17 boulders or more.
  • Bosi and Lorenzi both have climbed five V17s each.
Yes, But

There remains some ambiguity in the grading of Alphane, with experienced climbers expressing uncertainty regarding its difficulty level. This opens the door for future discussions and reassessments of the V17 grading as more climbers tackle it.

State of Play
  • Sungsu Lee's latest achievement has solidified his status in the climbing community.
  • Debates on the grading of challenging routes like Alphane highlight a broader discussion on bouldering standards.
What's Next

As more climbers attempt Alphane, it’s likely that the grading will be re-evaluated, potentially leading to a shift in how V17 boulders are perceived. Lee's trajectory suggests he may continue to push boundaries in climbing.

Bottom Line

Sungsu Lee's ascent of Alphane V17 showcases his remarkable skills and resilience in climbing, igniting conversations about the evolving nature of bouldering grades and setting the stage for future achievements in the sport.