Alizée Dufraisse, Highlander 8B+: A Dream in the Swiss Alps
(text: Alizée Dufraisse) After more than two decades dedicated to climbing, the summer of 2025 marked a powerful moment in my journey: I completed the first female ascent of Highlander, an 8B+ boulder located in the majestic alpine landscapes of Sustenpass, Switzerland. This boulder tested my technical skill, physical endurance, patience, and personal vision. It ultimately became one of the most meaningful ascents of my career.
Why Highlander?
I first laid eyes on Highlander, when my husband David Graham made the ascent of it, and I was immediately intrigued. The line climbs through steep granite with physical movements involving knee bars, compression, and tension, all elements I’ve come to love. I sensed right away that this boulder could fit me well. That’s not something I often feel. It was long, resistant, and situated in a place that I thought was very beautiful and inspiring. I was sure it would require dedication, but it also offered a style I was convinced I would grow into. Beyond the line itself, the place drew me in. Sustenpass is a remote, high-mountain pass in Switzerland with a wild and raw atmosphere. Unlike more popular spots, it’s often quiet, allowing for real focus and connection to the movement and nature. The beauty of the area was calming and inspiring. I often felt alone with the mountain, and that solitude helped me dive deeper into the process.
The Process: One Step at a Time
The journey toward sending Highlander unfolded over multiple trips and more than two seasons. I didn’t rush. First, I worked the upper part of the boulder Rêve de Fer, a tough 8A+/B in itself. Once I sent that one, I moved to Ikarus 8B, the lower half of the full line. Each time I returned, I built more understanding and adapted to the demands of the boulder. Learning the tricks, especially the multiple kneebar betas, was key. I understood slowly how to position my body in some very awkward and complex moves. I quickly realized that raw power alone wouldn’t be enough. The boulder is long and I obviously needed specific resistance, but the combinaison with tricks and body movement is what really motivated me the most. In many ways, the process felt methodical. I never had a huge mental block, also because the step-by-step nature of the project helped me stay grounded. I had clear objectives: send Rêve de Fer, send Ikarus, then link them. This structure gave me confidence all over the process.
Preparation and Mindset
This season, my preparation was more focused than ever. I spent time in Spain, in the winter and spring, mostly sharpening my short-resistance and power - exactly what I needed for this type of line. I also reached a big turning point in my life: I finished my PhD in social sciences. That completion gave me the freedom to fully immerse myself in climbing again. My schedule opened, my mind cleared, and I could fully tune into the rhythm necessary for performing. After years of juggling academic pressure and performance climbing, it was deeply rewarding to let climbing take center stage again.
The Send
The day I sent Highlander, I didn’t expect it. Conditions were good and I had no expectations. I warmed up well, felt relaxed, and simply focused on giving a clean attempt. Everything felt organic, I was kind of flowing. I moved through the opening sequence with more fluidity than ever, and transitioned into the upper one almost without thinking. When I pulled the final moves and topped out, I was so HAPPY. It was the quiet satisfaction of having followed through on a long vision. I’ve always dreamed of doing 8B+. And here, the reward wasn’t only the grade, but the process, the environment, and the personal growth it inspired. Highlander wasn’t about proving anything. It was about embracing what I love: beautiful lines, hard climbing, creative beta, and a connection to nature. This ascent reignited my motivation to keep pushing. I’m now looking at harder projects: 8C in bouldering, 9a+ in sport, and I feel more capable than ever. I’m grateful for all the support I’ve had - from friends, partners, and brands who value performance and purpose. Thank you for believing in this journey. I hope Highlander is just one of many stories still to come.
