David Lama
David Lama (1990-2019) was an exceptional Austrian climber known for his remarkable skills in both competition climbing and alpine mountaineering. Born in Innsbruck to a Nepalese father and an Austrian mother, David’s climbing career began at a young age. By the age of five, he was climbing, and he quickly ascended the ranks in competitive climbing. David won numerous European Youth Cups and became the first climber to win both the Lead Climbing World Cup and the Bouldering World Cup in the same season, showcasing his versatility.
Transitioning to mountaineering, David made significant contributions to alpinism and is best remembered for his first free ascent of the Compressor Route on Cerro Torre in Patagonia — a feat that was once thought impossible. His passion for climbing was matched by his commitment to eco-friendly practices, often advocating for minimal impact on the natural environments he explored.
Tragically, David’s life was cut short in an avalanche at the Howse Peak in the Rocky Mountians on April 16, 2019. His legacy lives on through his groundbreaking ascents and the inspiration he continues to provide to climbers around the world.