The phrase "athlete tackling El Capitan" as seen in the New York Times crossword clue refers to a "rock climber." El Capitan is a famous, challenging granite rock formation in Yosemite National Park, known for its vertical walls that attract elite climbers. The clue playfully describes a rock climber as an athlete who "tackles" the formidable El Capitan.
Recently, there was a tragic incident involving a young athlete and climber named Balin Miller, who fell to his death while climbing El Capitan. He was a 23-year-old Alaskan climber with rising fame in the mountaineering world. His fall happened during a live TikTok stream while attempting a lead rope solo climb on a route called Sea of Dreams. Balin had completed the climb and was retrieving his gear when he fell, reportedly rappelling off the end of his rope. Tributes poured in after the news, highlighting his talent and passion for the sport.
In summary:
- The crossword answer for "athlete tackling El Capitan" is "rock climber."
- El Capitan is a famous granite vertical rock formation in Yosemite.
- There was a recent fatal accident of Balin Miller, a skilled young rock climber, on El Capitan captured in a livestream.