For what it's worth, Russell didn't intend to be sarcastic or cast criticism when he praised Ben's climbing; the praise was sincere, and the part he was mocking was himself. Russell's sure he would have taken longer and slipped more often, compared to Ben's easy-looking progress up. With stage props and scenery, he's practiced with them and helped make sure there's good handholds already in place. And no moss.

But that's a passing moment. Here and now, Russell shifts back to improve his field of vision, and bends his knees a couple times to avoid locking up, before finally nodding. "As ready as I'll ever be... Let her fly!"