Dispatch 4/11,800′/4.29.08
April 29, 2008We are in the high country now, 24,688′ Annapurna IV looms large above us. Still we have 13,000′ and many days to go. Our arrival in basecamp tomorrow will signify the beginning of the true climb.
We have travelled on foot for 5 days, Tim, Josh and our cook staff and 20 porters. We are a large and slow moving unit. Each day begins with music and cheering from the porters and each night laughter cuts the darkness. This is a fun place to be and a great adventure for us all. It has been incredible shooting video.
On April 30, we plan to move to a camp at 15,500′ on a large step below the North ridge and thundering North face of the mountain. We will wait three days before beginning our first ascent of the mountain. Our plan is to pick our way through technical rock and ice sections before reaching the ridgeline where we will determine a proper spot for a high camp.
If we feel good on this initial foray, we will go for the top. If we elect not to, we will ski down, rest a few days and then give it another go. We are experienced in this range, excited about what we can see from here and positive the line will go.
We will send photos and video once we are settled into camp for a few days! For detailed information and photos of the mountain and route please visit: www.annapurniv.com
Ben Clark
clark@explorersweb.com
www.annapurnaiv.com
www.therestofeverest.com
One Response to “Dispatch 4/11,800′/4.29.08”
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April 29th, 2008 at 9:20 am
Hey Guys -
We are so glad to see that you made it over safely and that your trek has gone well so far. You obviously scored a terrific group of porters with music in the morning and laughter at night. We will continue to visit the site to get updates on your progress, sending positive mojo in your direction.
Our trek in the Riviera Maya has gone very well. It is nearly 1 km to the beach but we have been able to pull it off each day without the assistance of porters. Today marks our final ascent to the 1′ above sea level point. Later, we are planning an un-scheduled foray to the swim-up bar at the adults-only pool. We do not anticipate any problems as we are already intimately familiar with the tequila and ceviche menus.
Be safe! Have a blast! Peace! Mark & Terrie Dollard