The adventures of the calibration team ? Helen, Alan and Paul.

After successfully calibrating the exercise testing equipment at the Namche laboratory, the team left their fantastic host, Lhakpa Sonam, at the Sherwi Khangba lodge. This meant leaving behind the exceptional hot showers and plentiful food also.

Before departing, they had a discussion about transport of the specialised equipment with the Caudwell Xtreme Everest Sirdar, Pema Sherpa. The porters were concerned that two of the specially built boxes containing research equipment were too heavy for a yak to carry to Pheriche. They each weighed more than 35kg, which would have unbalanced a yak. Yet, they were too heavy for a porter to carry by themselves. The porters had a look inside the boxes and suggested the removal of the bike control panels to lighten the load. This would have rendered the exercise bikes unworkable, so Paul and Alan quickly vetoed the plan.

The trek to Phuki Tenga would have been uneventful, but for some yaks taking a shine to Helen. After Phuki Tenga, the team walked up the hill to Tengboche. Their effort was rewarded by the most beautiful views of Everest, Lhotse and Aba Dablam. After a short lunch, they descended into Deboche. This short descent is down a slightly steep, muddy trail, within a forest of birches and conifers. Alan was only wearing shoes, and ended up having a graceful slide down the trail, covering his top and trousers in mud. Outside the Aba Dablam lodge, where the team were to spend the night, Alan announced he would wear his boots the next day!

Story by Kay Mitchell