May 18, 2006 - South Summits and the world's longest climb
A big night last night with the Nepal MOT reporting 42 total summits from the south side. IMG reported 11 climbers (including 6 Sherpas) made the summit from the south side last night. Adventure Consultants and AAI are moving to the South Col today and will most likely do their bid tonight. AAI comments on how "hot" it is up there! Mountain Link is also on the Col and notes "...There are over 100 climbers anticipating a summit attempt during the next 4 days, so we should have a well established route by the time we go for the top!" Once again in spite of planning to not have crowds, there are crowds!!
On the north, Blair Falahey made it! Of note from the EverestMax team " ... Pauline Sanderson became the first person to complete the longest climb on earth from the dead sea to the summit of Everest." Well done!! But there are still many climbers trying to get to the summit including Ken Stalter and some of the SummitClimb team who are reported to be at C3. DCXP/Himalayan Experience is at ABC. Everest Peace Project goes for the summit tonight.
Tomas Olsson Missing
It is a sad day for most of the mountaineering community and for those who follow Everest climbs. After a successful summit Tomas Olsson disappeared during a rappel in a dangerous area of the Norton Couloir on the north side. He and his partner, Tormod Granheim, successfully summited and started their dream to ski down Everest. Tomas fell when an anchor came lose and he has not been located yet - almost 24 hours after the fall. The story is now well covered on several sites. It is hard to understand this accident from many angles but there are many positives. A young man who is an obvious expert in his sport living his life large and full. Family and friends providing strong support for his lifestyle. Courage to attempt the most severe challenges. I followed his writings on his blog over the past year as he trained in France for this adventure. He is full of optimism and energy.
As far as I know from other reports the search continues.
http://www.alanarnette.com
