Jessica Pilz and Jakob Schubert take epic Red Bull Dual Ascent victory
With their blistering pace having set a new Red Bull Dual Ascent record in the semi-finals, the Austrian team Jessica Pilz and Jakob Schubert's tempo and dominance remained unmatched in the final as they blazed their way to victory.
Despite opponents Andrea Kümin and Sascha Lehmann clocking a personal best time and showcasing stunning skill, the Swiss duo had to settle for second place after the Austrians' lead became insurmountable.
From the get-go, the Austrians' approach could be summed up in two words – pure pace. Pilz and Kümin were the first climbers out of the gate, with 24 metres of steady, clean climbing setting the tone for the anticipated final. With a record climb already in the bag, Austrian national champion Pilz appeared to be brimming with confidence, finishing the pitch a fraction ahead of her rival.
The leaders were quickly followed by Schubert and rival Lehmann, both climbers firing their way up the wall neck-and-neck, until the Austrian opened up a small lead.
Taking minimal rest, Schubert clipped on and launched into the second 7A Vogorno pitch, his experience as the most successful male competition climber clearly on display as he skilfully navigated the dynamic crux, his footwork patient, and pace quick but steady. Lehmann remained in close pursuit, doggedly keeping the Austrians’ margin of lead at a minimum and the Swiss team’s hopes of a chance at taking the win alive and kicking.
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