It looks like the jetstream will split North/South around Everest and Makalu as it approaches from the NW. Our weather sages think this will mean a decrease in winds from 60-110 km/hr to 20-30 km/hr from the Makalu La(7400m) to the summit(8467m), with temps warming from from -35 C to around -20 C near the summit the 16th and 17th. We will definitely appreciate the warmth and comfort of the Talus Cold Avenger masks and the Point 6 socks!
So today, the six French climbers of our group, four team sherpas, and Chhiring Dorje left for the summit push, targetting a May 16th summit. Right behind them out of BC was a party of 13 Germans with the same game plan. The four of us haqve decided to hold back our summit departure till the day after tomorrow, May 15th. Our reasons for doing this are that we want to summit on the 17th, avoid crowding(including icefall and rockfall risk) in the technical areas of the route, and since we are not using botttled oxygen, to minimize our high altitude exposure time, skipping the camp at Makalu La with a push from Camp 2 to a final staging camp at 7600m.
The waiting is hard-reading books, watching videos, and going on hikes around BC are a reminder that high mountains are not "conquered", but rather snuck up on, and that planning,preparation, and commitment are keys to a successful summit of an 8000m peak. The reality of the experience is that it's just not possible to get to the top of a peak like Makalu without climbing in at least some bad weather. Communication and trust amongst teammates, continual reassessment of risks and benefits, and conservation of energy, are all really important at this stage.
"dolendi modus timendi non item...
to suffering there is an end, to fear, none..."
Eric Meyer, M.D.
6 comments:
Good luck to all. Bide your time and get to the top, but more importantly, return healthy and in one piece!
Namaste!
Rob, Eric, and the team,
Thinking of you all on your summit day, best of luck, stay strong, keep each others backs and smile at the heavens up there.
xoxo K
Ok, it's a wake up call.....good luck
Niels
Eric: It's good to hear that the weather is improving, and that you have a plan of attack in the works at last. Be careful and strong and wise. I should be eating sushi with your friend in Casper on Monday night. We'll be thinking of you and sending all the good vibes we can muster.
Asking for your journey to carry you to greater strength and insight, growth and joy. Asking for your many gifts to descend this mountain and be again with those you love and those who need your love. Many prayers, Jill
Hey Eric,
Thank you for the update. Your plan sounds wise and safe. Enjoy the climb and let us know when you are down safe. Looking forward to hearing about the experience. Be well.
Randall
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