Nalle Hukkataival Snags First Ascent of The Swarm Direct (V13)

Nalle Hukkataival has completed the first ascent of The Swarm Direct at the Buttermilks of Bishop, California.  After completing the original line in just one session, Nalle returned to the problem to create a hard variation.  The original Swarm traverses right along sharp seams to top out around an arete.  Nalle's version continues straight up.  In his usual style he was able to complete the problem quickly according to his 8a.nu scorecard:  "2nd try from the ground after climbing The Swarm".

To get a look at Nalle's new variation check out this video of Paul Robinson sending the original Swarm. 

Nalle on a project in South Africa's Rocklands.  Photo: 8a.nu

Nalle has also been able to tick off a few more hard boulders in Bishop including the problems we reported here as well as Direction (V13), Maze of Death (V12), Xavier's Roof (V11), Haroun and the Sea of Stories (V11), and the classic highball This Side of Paradise (V10).  With his obviously unstoppable strength and talent, the question that lingers is; "Will he try Paul Robinson's Lucid Dreaming (V16)?"