An analogy for us mortals
Or how to be Alex Honnold:
First ingredient, start with the physical supremacy and preparation of Roger Bannister and exert yourself as if breaking the 4-minute mile for the first time. Second ingredient, add the mental strength of Gary Kasparov to focus concentration like you're in a grudge match with Deep Blue. Third ingredient, hire a friend to stand behind you with a Luger pointed at your head and instructions to fire if you make any mistake, if you sneeze or it starts to rain. Fourth ingredient, volunteer to do all of the above at the same time for no money with humility and a sense of humor.
On the other hand, Kasparov lost. And the sub-4 minute mile was repeated twice within two months after Bannister. How many months will pass before this is repeated and will anyone die trying?