Shawn Raboutou has successfully established Maracanazo as Argentina’s first and only 5.14d route. This notable ascent enhances Argentina’s climbing reputation, previously dominated by other South American countries. Raboutou’s climbing metrics include significant achievements in V16 and V17 grades, further solidifying his status in the bouldering community. His accomplishment comes on the tail of a previous claim of the 5.14d title that was later downgraded.
Shawn Raboutou has established a new climbing route, Maracanazo, a significant achievement as it stands as Argentina’s sole 5.14d. This arrival marks a notable addition to the South American climbing scene, which includes several other high-grade routes such as Pasito a Pasito in Chile and two routes in Bolivia, all graded 5.14d and opened by other notable climbers in recent years.
In 2024, Raboutou managed to ascend two V16s, namely United and the second ascent of Devilution located in California. His impressive climbing resume lists a total of eight V16 ascents along with two V17 routes—Megatron and Alphane, both of which were first ascents. He is also recognized for his climbs of two recorded 5.15a routes: Kangaroo Limb and First Ley.
Previously, in 2016, Birtle achieved the first ascent of Azul es el Cielo de los Ciegos in Argentina and labeled it as the first 5.14d route in South America. However, this climb was reassessed in 2023 when Filipe Ho repeated it and downgraded it to 5.14c, thereby paving the way for Raboutou’s Maracanazo to hold the esteemed title of the only 5.14d in the country.
Climbing ratings are vital to understand the difficulty levels of routes. The 5.14d grade denotes a highly challenging climb, often requiring advanced technical skills, strength, and endurance. In South America, the prior recognition for high-grade climbs, particularly in Argentina, had been limited until Raboutou’s latest achievement. The region now sees an expanding portfolio of climbing possibilities as more climbers push the boundaries of difficult ascents. Raboutou, being a prominent figure in combat sports, not only represents the pinnacle of bouldering but also contributes to the climbing community’s growth through his achievements. South America has been gradually increasing in recognized difficult routes over the years, with climbers like Alex Megos leading the charge by putting up notable climbs across the continent.
Shawn Raboutou’s accomplishment of climbing Maracanazo, the only 5.14d route in Argentina, signifies a milestone in the country’s climbing history. By achieving this, Raboutou adds to his legacy as one of the foremost boulderers, reinforcing South America’s burgeoning status in the world of competitive climbing. As the climbing community evolves, Raboutou’s performance indicates a bright future for climbing in Argentina and Latin America.
Original Source: gripped.com
