The rare classics are often the first of the grade for a particular crag or country or even the world. Take Wall Street for example, the world’s first 8c, climbed by Wolfgang Güllich back in 1987. Or Mojave, the first established 8c+ in Spain equipped and climbed by Bernabé Fernández in 1994. And Action Directe, of course, the world’s first internationally recognized 9a.
Spanish climber Ana Belén Argudo, age 23, wants to send them all.
She is on a journey to climb routes that hold an important place in history, all of which were bolted long before she was born.
“One of the things that has always motivated me about climbing is knowing the history behind the routes, the sectors, the crags,” she says. “And for me, climbing routes that have been important in climbing history, whether at a national or international level, is something that makes me curious and motivates me.”
Ticklist:
● Madiba (8c/+), Cuenca, Spain – FFA
● Calvario del Sicario (8c/+), Cuenca, Spain – FFA
● Corazon Cofrade (8c), Cuenca, Spain – FFA
● Mandanga Total (9a), Villanueva del Rosario, Spain – FFA
● Mojave (8c+), El Torcal de Antequera, Spain – FFA
The project began in 2021 when she stopped competing and decided to focus on rock climbing. She started checking off the classics at her home crag of Cuenca, then expanded to other parts of Spain and beyond.
Ana is also driven to climb routes with few or no female ascents to contribute to history herself—and ultimately inspire other girls to attempt these classic routes.
Watch the full film, which premiered at the 2025 Siurana Climbing Festival, below.
GENESIS – ANA BELEN’S JOURNEY