SubscribeSummit Push To Begin May 8th For Viesturs, Whittaker & Arnot
Posted Under: Expeditions, GuidesEverest Dispatch #42
May 4, 2009
Basecamp
By Melissa Arnot
The chatter of Sherpa staff waking up and getting going is the first thing I hear, then the sun hits the tent and it is time to get up. Basecamp is a busy place, but I always think of it as the place that is ruled by the rise and set of the sun. As soon as the sun hits, it is too hot to stay in the tent and once the sun recedes, it is too cold to stay out. I like the simplicity of that; I don’t have to think too hard about where exactly to be.
If all goes well and the weather holds, this will be our final rest before the summit push. There is still so much to do, but plenty of time. At Camp 3 on the last rotation, it was a great test of how things will work, and what still needs to be done. Today, I look through the gloves that I can choose from for the summit bid. I scan my climbing clothing, seeing what needs to be washed one last time and what is ready to go. I count out the energy gels that I will use for the summit push, and tuck in a few packages of fruit snacks for good measure. Looking at all of this equipment, it is hard to imagine that in less than a week it will be tucked onto my body and my back, on my way to the summit.
Of course, so much has to line up. A week seems close, but in reality, it is still a world away. The weather has to be good, but also we have to feel good as climbers. Your body has to be strong and your mind open to the challenge that is ahead. On the summit push, I need to stay healthy, avoiding any stomach bugs or head colds that might be trying to come my way. If everything does line up, then you have to be open to the mountain’s terms. If I have learned anything, it is that you have to come prepared with health and strength but also humility and openness. Nothing is assumed. You have to be prepared to take this experience and enjoy each step of it, knowing that the mountains will give you exactly what they want to – that is the beauty of it.
These are the thoughts that are roaming through my mind as final preparations are being made for the summit. Somewhere between being aware of what the mountain is telling us, and which gloves I should pack, I realize that all the preparations (the mental and the physical) are the part of the experience that I value so much, the part that I can take with me on the next adventure. But for now, I will focus on this adventure.
Reader Comments
May 8th – Wow ! Good luck to you all and stay safe. You have hundreds – maybe thousands- of people wishing you well
I was lucky enough to visit your store in Ashford WA yesterday and took a Mountain Guide Jacket and Pants up to the giddy heights of 4000ft. The First Ascent product looks great and we were all very happy with how it worked – even if we didn’t put it thru the same test as you guys are.
I know my eyes will be glued to the computer Friday! Hope you all are getting plenty of rest. Everyone here at Eddie Bauer at Rapid City, SD are rooting you all on 110% all the way!!! Also, how are the Peak XV suits working? They look really comfy. Stay safe and look forward to seeing some great photos of you, Peter, Ed, and Dave and his team on top of Everest. Then want to see photos of you all back down at BC safely.
it is really fascinating watching and reading about your climb. it really has to be a dream come true just to be able to attempt this. just the thought of being in your shoes gives me chillbumps. looking foward to the sights and sounds from atop everest. good luck to all of you in your summit bid. be safe and god’s speed to you all.
Gods Speed…
I am now a loyal customer of First Ascent, Your my Heros
Cashmere 4th graders are following and wishing you the best of luck in reaching the summit. If you summit May 8th, how long will you remain on the mountain and will you help with other expeditions in any way? Has the route been fixed to the summit and has anyone made it yet? Good luck- we received a First Ascent Banner and hope to see its double on the summit in the near future.
Mr. Griffith and Vale Elementary 4th graders.
I’ve taken this opportunity to have my kids – - 13 and 11 – - follow you and the team, to learn how a group works together and individually to achieve an extraordinary challenge. The dispatches are really great for doing this and you should know that your articulate influence and leadership extends to others and contributes to their optimism.
Ed and team, we’ve been following your expedition and have really enjoyed learning all that goes into an Everest expedition. We wish you all the best health, weather and luck as you prepare for the 8th. Blessings!! The Giomi Family
Hello Melissa Good Luck for 8 may
take care, wish you all the best see you at the Top and back safety !
Levente R. Lokody
Good luck to you all and stay safe! Remember Ed:s motto (from No Shortcuts to the top): “Reaching the summit is optional. Getting down is mandatory”. But of course I hope you make it to the top!