Drakobijecká, Pod duhou 7

The air was crisp and clear as we arrived at 'Pod duhou', a hidden gem of a climbing area. My eyes immediately sought out 'Drakobijecká', a notorious Grade 7 route that had been on my tick list for ages. Its name, 'Dragon Slayer's', hinted at the challenge ahead.

Roping up, I felt a mix of anticipation and nerves. The initial moves were deceptively tricky, demanding precise footwork on tiny smears. Higher up, the route revealed its true character: a series of powerful crimps leading into a sustained slab section, the crux. My forearms burned, but my focus was absolute. Each clip felt like a small victory.

Reaching the anchor, a wave of elation washed over me. The panoramic view from the top was breathtaking – the valley stretching out below, the rainbow-like mist (true to 'Pod duhou' – 'Under the Rainbow') in the distance. It was a perfect send, a true battle won. Drakobijecká had lived up to its name, and I, for a moment, felt like a dragon slayer.