Eva Hammelmüller is having one of her most successful years, marked by high-grade outdoor sport climbing achievements. In April, she climbed her first 5.15a with Bombardino, and this month she sent her second at the same grade—Affinità Elettive in Veneto, Italy. The climb challenged her endurance and mental strength, which she vividly described on Instagram.
Affinità Elettive, a 5.15a (9a+) route in the Dolomites of Veneto, Italy, was established by Andrea Milani to honor Mario and Luca Prinoth. It became notable when Laura Rogora completed it in 2026. Recently, it was sent by 18-year-old Czech climber Pepa Šindel, who called it an 'endurance gem' that starts with a 5.13d/5.14a section and escalates into power-endurance climbing.
Hammelmüller has been climbing consistently this year. She started with Anchorage 5.14c at Terminal, Italy, in January. In February, she climbed Alien Carnage 5.14c in France and followed with WRC 5.14d just two days later. By month’s end, she sent Sans complexe 5.14d in Lourmarin, France.
April brought another milestone with Goosfraba 5.14c in Arco, Italy, and her first 5.15a, Bombardino, in the same area. In May, she climbed Juturna 5.14d at Götterwandl in Austria, making it her fourth 5.14d of the year. Her consistent performance highlights her growing prominence in outdoor climbing.
A product of competition climbing, Hammelmüller is now emerging as a force in outdoor sport climbing. Her achievements this year show a clear shift toward high-grade routes across Europe. Her adaptability and determination are proving she can compete with the best.
Affinità Elettive tested her in more ways than one. She described battling rain, fatigue, and the mental challenge of climbing 60 meters off ground in technical terrain. Hidden in the upper sector of Capanna Bill, the route demanded strength and mental focus—both of which she brought.
Each trip has netted multiple sends, and this year has set new standards for her in both quality and quantity of routes. With continued progress, she’s proving to be a rising force in the climbing world.