Very sad news from the world of rock climbing today, as it has been revealed that 16-year old French climbing phenom Luce Douady has died in a fall. While details are still being sorted out, it appears that the fall took place this past Sunday and occurred not while she was on the rock face itself, but while navigating a tricky foot path on the way to the start of her climb. The accident took place in the southeast of France near Grenoble where Douady had been staying and training this summer.
Last year, Douady burst onto the competitive climbing scene, winning the junior boulder world championships while just 15 years old. Not long after, she made the jump to the seniors level of bouldering competitions and finished 5th in the world championships on that level too, despite the fact she was the youngest participant. Luce was expected to compete in the 2020 Olympic Games in Tokyo, which have now been postponed to 2021 due to the coronavirus. Luce was widely scene as a rising star in the competitive climbing world, and the future of the sport for the French. As you can imagine, her friends, teammates, and climbing partners are stunned by the tragic news of her passing.
According to reports, Douady fell more than 150 meters (492 ft) after losing her footing while navigating the trail that took her to the her intended climbing route. An investigation is underway to sort out the exact details of the accident, but since she was still on the approach, she wasn't wearing a harness or roped up at the time. While eventually we'll probably learn more about exactly what happened, it appears to be a simply accident that has led to an immense tragedy.
Our condolences go out to Luce's friends and family. Such a tragic loss and she will be missed.
