Zach called in last night to say that the group had completed the big move from 14 camp to their high camp at 17,000'. A rest day at 14 camp let the group gather their strength and yesterday went off without a hitch; it is a big day and requires big effort, but they are right now probably just stirring out of their sleeping bags and waiting for the first round of hot drinks from the guide's tent, Zach planned another rest day for today to recuperate and prepare for the summit attempt. Zach reported a few blisters but nothing drastic- big, clunky climbing boots don't alway agree with climbers' feet and blisters usually only become a problem if left unattended. High camp can be a severe place to hang out so the team is settled into the most fortified camp of the West Buttress- thick snow walls help break the force of the winds, which can sometimes blow to hurricane force or more.
The team left their cozy kitchen tent at 14, so now the guides cook in the vestibule of their tent. Although the kitchen tents are nice, they have a hard time standing up to bad weather and aren't worth the weight. The colder temperatures usually mean people are greatful to get their food served to them in their sleeping bags- breakfast and dinner in bed!
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Great news to hear the move to high camp went smoothly. Hope you're hunkering down against the weather, binding any blisters and filling up with lots of high-energy food and hydration ready for the summit assault. Will be checking in constantly and with you, as always, in spirit every step of the way... fix your eyes ahead.
ReplyDeleteGreat to here that all went well on the move to high camp. Thomas' turn to put the sticker on the map! It was fantastic to hear from you too. We'll be away for a few days ourselves and given reception in NYM will probably ring friends and family to await news of your summit attempt. We can't wait to see you again. Be safe and good luck! xxx
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