Written by Rhizlaine Benabid | October 31, 2024
Set against the stunning backdrop of Switzerland's towering 220-meter Verzasca Dam, the Red Bull Dual Ascent provides an inspiring challenge for climbers who scale heights up to a staggering 180 meters. When watching the athletes in the Red Bull Dual Ascent scale seemingly insurmountable wall faces and perform feats of strength and endurance, it is easy to forget that there is an entire team working tirelessly behind the scenes to make sure every move is safe and every challenge anticipated. Behind the thrill of this event lies the story of intense collaboration, innovative problem-solving and a shared commitment to safety and precision that helps ensure a seamless competition and safe climbing for every athlete involved.
Safety is at the forefront of every discussion. From the technical aspects of the route’s layout to ensuring that the route setters and the climbers have the best possible equipment, nothing is left to chance. The Hilti team works closely with Red Bull to establish the framework that will guide the event.
Engineering safety: the foundation of success
Hilti’s role in the Red Bull Dual Ascent goes beyond providing the right tools. It's about maximizing equipment reliability in extreme conditions. Hilti equips the event with a range of specialized tools, including anchors to stabilize climbers on challenging surfaces, power tools for precise and safe installation and safety gear designed to meet the highest safety standards.
Even before the first anchor is fastened into place, Hilti’s engineering team conducts a thorough assessment of the site. Working closely with 360Holds route specialists, they evaluate the dam’s texture, the anticipated strain on the anchors and potential weather variables such as wind and rain.
"We had to consider every possible factor," says Arne Echterbruch, one of Hilti’s engineers. "Wind, rain and temperature fluctuations can impact the climbers and the equipment instantly."
After assessing the terrain, the team rigorously tests all the tools and safety equipment, ensuring that both the climbers and the teams on the ground are protected throughout the event.
Adapting to challenges: flexibility and innovation in action
No matter how much planning goes into an event like the Red Bull Dual Ascent, unpredictability is always part of the equation. Sudden weather changes, unexpected course modifications or last-minute adjustments can throw a wrench into the most carefully laid plans.
During one of the preparation days, strong winds and rain swept across the dam face, creating a challenging and potentially dangerous working environment. The wind made it difficult to stabilize the equipment and securing anchors on the vertical surface became more complicated under these conditions.
The team quickly adapted by securing additional anchor points and the use of Nuron cordless tools, designed to withstand harsh weather, allowed work to continue smoothly. Real-time decisions, such as repositioning scaffolding and temporarily pausing some operations, ensured that the setup could continue safely without delaying the schedule. Rapid problem-solving not only kept the project on track but also ensured the safety of all working teams.
“The adaptability of the team is what makes these events possible,” notes Helmut Putz, (outdoor leadership event lead, who was assigned to this competition by Red Bull’s organizing committee. “We don’t just stick to Plan A. We’re always thinking on our feet, and that’s where Hilti’s expertise really comes through.”
As the day of the event approaches the pace quickens and the collaboration between the Hilti and Red Bull teams becomes even more crucial. Final inspections are carried out, equipment is double-checked and last-minute adjustments are made. The intensity builds, but it’s clear that months of teamwork and meticulous planning have prepared the teams for this moment.
The night before the event, Hilti’s technical team works alongside Red Bull’s organizers to make sure every detail is accounted for. It’s a high-stakes operation, but everyone knows their role. The final push is a testament to the months of preparation and the shared commitment to excellence.
A partnership built on safety, innovation and trust
When the climbers ascend the dam and the event unfolds seamlessly, it’s easy to be captivated by the action. But behind every breathtaking move is the unseen work of a dedicated team, making sure that safety and innovation are at the forefront.
The Red Bull Dual Ascent is not just a showcase of athletic prowess but a testament to the power of effective collaboration, engineering precision and problem-solving. Hilti’s role behind the scenes proves that, with the right solutions, the right team and a shared vision, even the most challenging projects can be made possible.
