🔥 James Pearson Repeats Crac yr Meistri (E9) on Llanberis Slate
James Pearson, known for his fearless approach to bold trad lines, has made a gripping repeat of Crac yr Meistri—a notoriously technical and serious E9 route etched into the slate walls of Llanberis, North Wales. This climb is not just physically demanding; it’s psychologically intense, with sparse protection and delicate moves that test a climber’s nerve as much as their skill.
🧱 The Route: A Slate Testpiece
Grade: E9 6c (British trad grading)
Location: Llanberis Pass, Wales
Style: Traditional climbing on slate—thin edges, frictionless smears, and minimal gear placements
First Ascent: Originally climbed by Johnny Dawes, a pioneer of bold British trad
Slate climbing is a unique beast: it demands precision, balance, and a cool head. Crac yr Meistri is infamous for its runouts and technical sequences, where a fall could mean serious consequences. It’s not just about strength—it’s about control and commitment.
🧠 Pearson’s Approach
James Pearson has built a reputation for tackling some of the UK’s most intimidating lines, from Rhapsody in Scotland to The Walk of Life in Devon. His repeat of Crac yr Meistri continues that legacy:
He reportedly spent time rehearsing the moves on a top rope before committing to the lead.
The gear is sparse and tricky to place, requiring confidence in marginal protection.
His ascent was clean and controlled, showing both mastery of the slate and mental fortitude.
🎯 Why It Matters
Pearson’s repeat breathes new life into a route that many consider a relic of bold 1980s climbing. It reminds the community that these historic lines still hold relevance—and challenge—even in the modern era of sport climbing and indoor gyms.
