Latest Climbing News

The Xtreme Everest team are still resting at Camp 1 in preparation for the climb to Camp 2 tomorrow.

The team of 9 Sherpas left Advanced Base Camp at 06:00 this morning and made it to Camp 1 by 09:00, in an incredible 3 hours. After a quick cup of tea they pushed onto Camp 2 carrying extra tents and oxygen cylinders in readiness for the team?s arrival there tomorrow. One of the tents is a tiny 2-man affair in which the team still hope to use as shelter when taking arterial blood samples from the summit.

The weather here is good with light winds from the south west and just a hint of high cloud. The report is that there might be some snow tomorrow, in the region of 10mm, but this shouldn?t hamper the team?s progress. There have been a series of avalanches heard to the south of our position here at ABC, but as yet none have been witnessed.

Looking through our telescope here at ABC, I have observed other teams already climbing up to Camp 2, which is around 7200 meters high. There are probably in the region of 300 climbers based here, stretched out along a 1 kilometer area of the valley, of which maybe 200 plan to summit. Tens of tiny figures could be seen slowly making their way ever higher towards the summit. With the weather window being fairly short, it will be quite a rush for most of the teams to make it. Xtreme Everest are remaining cautious as there are still dangers due to the recent heavy snow fall. Close cooperation with teams that have more experience on Cho Oyu is paramount before any decision is reached to attempt a summit bid.

Story by Mac Mackenney