Race to the Summit is a Netflix documentary that delves into the intense rivalry between Ueli Steck and Dani Arnold, two prominent Swiss alpine climbers. The film focuses on their relentless pursuit of setting speed records on the majestic north faces of the Alps.
The documentary commences by introducing the audience to these remarkable climbers. Steck, a seasoned veteran, is renowned for his daring solo climbs and his unwavering determination to push the boundaries of human strength and resilience. On the other hand, Arnold, a younger and more audacious climber, is eager to prove himself to the world and leave an indelible mark on the climbing community.
Their paths first intersect in 2008 during their simultaneous attempts to establish a speed record on the treacherous north face of the Eiger. While Steck emerges victorious, Arnold is compelled to abandon his endeavor due to adverse weather conditions.
In 2011, Arnold astounds the world by setting a groundbreaking speed record on the formidable north face of the Matterhorn. Driven by an unwavering determination to reclaim his record, Steck embarks on a mission and successfully establishes a new record of 2 hours and 22 minutes in 2015.
However, Arnold refuses to be overshadowed and, in 2017, astonishingly breaks Steck’s record by completing the treacherous climb in a mere 1 hour and 46 minutes. Devastated by this setback, Steck remains resolute and sets his sights on surpassing Arnold’s achievement.
Tragically, in the same year, Steck’s pursuit of a new speed record on the Eiger’s north face ends in a fatal fall. Arnold, deeply saddened by the loss of his friend and rival, mourns the passing of a true legend.
“Race to the Summit” is an exhilarating and inspiring film that not only chronicles the extraordinary journeys of these two exceptional climbers but also serves as a poignant reminder of the perils associated with pushing the limits of human endurance. It encapsulates the essence of their indomitable spirit while cautioning viewers about the inherent dangers that accompany such daring endeavors.
Release Date
October 4, 2023
Where to Watch Race to the Summit
Ueli Steck
Ueli Steck was a renowned Swiss mountaineer, born on October 4, 1976, in Langnau im Emmental, Switzerland. He earned the nickname “Swiss Machine” due to his remarkable solo ascents and speed records. Read more
Dani Arnold
Dani Arnold, born on February 22, 1984, in the canton of Uri, Switzerland, is a renowned Swiss mountaineer known for his extraordinary achievements in extreme climbing. From a young age, Arnold was drawn to the mountains, growing up in the mountainous village of Biel ob Bürglen in the Schächental region. His passion for climbing led him to become a prominent figure in the world of mountaineering. Read more