Will Bosi: Early Life, Age, and Rise to Elite Climbing
Will Bosi, born in Edinburgh, Scotland, in 1998, began climbing at just six years old. His talent was obvious from a young age. By his teens, he was dominating youth competitions and soon represented Great Britain on the international competition circuit. He narrowly missed qualifying for the Tokyo 2020 Olympics but quickly pivoted his focus to outdoor climbing.
At age 17, Will Bosi climbed Rainshadow (9a) at Malham Cove, making him the youngest Brit to achieve the grade at that time.
Will Bosi Burden of Dreams: Breaking Into V17
In April 2023, Will Bosi Burden of Dreams became one of the most searched climbing stories worldwide. Bosi claimed the second ascent of Burden of Dreams (V17) in Lappnor, Finland—widely regarded as the hardest boulder problem on the planet.
To prepare, he famously built a precise replica of the climb’s tiny holds using 3D printing technology. After months of training, he completed the five-move testpiece in just 24 sessions total, including time spent on the replica and the real boulder.
This ascent was not just a personal milestone—it was proof that Burden of Dreams was climbable by more than one person and cemented Bosi as one of the world’s best.
Will Bosi Return of the Sleepwalker
In February 2024, Bosi took things further by sending Return of the Sleepwalker (V17) in Red Rock, Nevada. This long, powerful sit-start to the already challenging Sleepwalker (V16) had only been climbed once before by Daniel Woods.
Bosi completed his repeat in only 12 sessions, a remarkably quick time given the problem’s reputation. His ascent confirmed that the climb deserved the full V17 grade and demonstrated his rapid ability to adapt to some of the hardest moves in the world.
Will Bosi Spots of Time
Later in 2024, Bosi made the second ascent of Spots of Time (V17), located on Helvellyn in the U.K. This problem, first climbed by Aidan Roberts earlier that year, was the first confirmed V17 established in Britain.
Bosi managed to climb it in just eight sessions. By doing so, he became the first climber in the world to have completed four different V17s—an extraordinary achievement in modern bouldering.
Will Bosi Excalibur and 9b+ Sport Climbing
While known for bouldering, Bosi has also pushed the limits in sport climbing. In February 2025, he claimed the second ascent of Excalibur (9b+) in Arco, Italy.
This short, brutally difficult route had previously only been climbed by Stefano Ghisolfi. By sending it, Bosi became the first British climber to ever complete a 9b+ route—joining the exclusive club of climbers operating at the highest level of sport climbing.
Will Bosi V17 Ascents and Notable Grades
To date, Bosi’s V17 ascents include:
- Alphane (V17)
- Burden of Dreams (V17)
- Return of the Sleepwalker (V17)
- Spots of Time (V17)
His hardest sport climbs include multiple 9b routes (like La Capella and King Capella) and his 9b+ ascent of Excalibur.
Will Bosi Climbing Shoes and Training Approach
Will Bosi often wears the La Sportiva Theory for bouldering and the La Sportiva Solution for sport climbing, both designed for precision on small holds and steep terrain.
Bosi is also known for his innovative training methods, especially his use of replica holds and walls to simulate his hardest projects. This attention to detail, along with his powerful dynamic style and creative beta, has helped him tackle problems and routes once thought impossible.
Will Bosi’s Impact and What’s Next
Bosi has not only achieved personal milestones but has also changed how climbers approach training and projecting difficult climbs. His use of replicas, openness about the challenges of cutting-edge ascents, and consistency across disciplines have inspired climbers around the world.
As of 2025, fans speculate whether Bosi will push into V18 bouldering or attempt the rare 9c sport grade. Whatever comes next, Will Bosi’s legacy as one of the sport’s most versatile and determined climbers is already secured.
Conclusion
From his early days in Edinburgh to breaking records on the hardest climbs worldwide, Will Bosi has redefined what’s possible in both bouldering and sport climbing. With four V17 boulders and a 9b+ route to his name—and more likely to come—Bosi continues to inspire climbers and set new standards for the sport.