In climbing, success and failure often go hand in hand. It is not uncommon to experience multiple failures before achieving a successful ascent. This period of struggle can last for just one session or stretch on for weeks, months, or even seasons for mega-projects. Climber Stefano Ghisolfi has chosen two of the world’s hardest climbs as his mega-projects: the Burden of Dreams V17 boulder and the Silence 5.15d sport route.
Recently, La Sportiva released a film documenting Ghisolfi’s attempts at these two climbs during a May 2023 trip to Scandinavia, following his first successful ascent of Excalibur 5.15c in Arco. The film provides a detailed breakdown of the V15-ish crux of Silence, showcasing Ghisolfi’s determination and skill in his pursuit of these challenging climbs.
Over the past two years, Ghisolfi has made multiple trips to Flatanger in an effort to claim the second ascent of Adam Ondra’s Silence 5.15d, a highly coveted achievement in the climbing world. Additionally, he has taken on Nalle Hukkataival’s Burden of Dreams boulder project, surprising many with his progress despite not being known for his bouldering skills. Ghisolfi’s determination and commitment to these projects are evident as he continues to push himself and seek improvement.
As one of the world’s best sport climbers, Ghisolfi has an impressive resume of difficult climbs, including four 5.15c ascents and notable repeats and first ascents of 5.15b and 5.14d routes. His recent accomplishments in 2023, such as the first ascent of Excalibur 5.15c and Il Terzo Occhio 5