Climbing "Elza" (10-) in Branka was a truly demanding experience. The route is relentlessly technical, requiring precise footwork and powerful crimping. The rock is sharp and unforgiving, adding to the mental and physical challenge. The crux, located midway up the face, involved a long, tenuous move to a shallow pocket, followed by a dynamic pull to a sloping hold. Failure meant a significant swing. Even after the crux, the route continued with sustained difficulty, demanding constant focus. Reaching the anchors felt like a major accomplishment, a testament to persistence and a bit of luck. The exposure in Branka only amplified the intensity of the climb. Overall, a hard-fought and rewarding ascent of a classic hardman route.
