The view looking up at the headwall (left side) and at High Camp (right side) from 14,200'The team carried loads up the fixed lines to 16,400 feet yesterday. This is a really tough day as you really begin to feel the elevation gain and negotiating the fixed lines can really beat you up. The fixed lines consist of about 600' of rope that is fastened to the icy slope every 80-100 feet or so. You clamp ans "ascender" (rope grabbing device) to the fixed line as a form of self belay. This will catch you should you lose your footing on the 45 degree pitch and prevent you from...well...pitching! The climbers are still roped up and it just ends up being pretty slow going as you make your way uphill.
The ridge that runs from the top of the fixed lines at 16,200' to high camp at 17,200' offers some of the most spectacular climbing on the West Buttress route. It is knife edged in spots and has some big air to either side as you make your way along its length, winding between rocks and up steep sections of snow.
The team is planning to move to high Camp today. I'll post more when I hear it.
The ridge that runs from the top of the fixed lines at 16,200' to high camp at 17,200' offers some of the most spectacular climbing on the West Buttress route. It is knife edged in spots and has some big air to either side as you make your way along its length, winding between rocks and up steep sections of snow.
The team is planning to move to high Camp today. I'll post more when I hear it.
5 comments:
T0 Mike Stocklosa,
I hope you are still feeling ok. Tiff has kept me posted. I am so impressed at what you can accomplish. You have a strength that is just amazing!! Keep looking with in your self and you will succeed!! I love you. Stay safe!
Mom
To the team , I hope you are all feeling well. You have all gone so far. You are all amazing people.
Stay safe
Michael Stocklosa:
“I firmly believe that any man's finest hour, the greatest fulfillment of all that he holds dear, is the moment when he has worked his heart out in a good cause and lies exhausted on the field of battle - victorious”
Vince Lombardi
You've come this far- keep you head up and your thoughts forward. Keep you're mind clear and stay sure-footed. Today is the first time I've seen these pictures posted of every camp you've rested. Oh My God were the first words to come to my mind. You've always been a strong man but looking upon these pictures, you're in a whole other category. Wear your tattoo proudly b/c you are just exactly that. Love you babe,
Your Tiffany
Team:
“The achievements of an organization are the results of the combined effort of each individual.”
Vince Lombardi
Im very proud of all of you. I believe in all of you. Stay cautious- the knife edge looks to be quite challenging. Keep communication open, support each other and your own individual goals, and all of you will reach the summit. Remember- there is no I in Team. Take care.
Tiffany
Ro-Ro
All the downstairs windows were put in today. We need the upstairs sanded so hurry up.
Love ya,
Kev
To Charles Haller,
WOW, 16,400' and climbing! Great Job! It has been exciting watching your progress on the blog page. You have worked so hard for this and now you are so close. I am so proud of you. Everyone is rooting for you. I know you have the strength and drive to accomplish anything you desire. My thoughts and prayers are with you and the team for a safe summit and return. I love you. GG
Kochanie Ania
It definitely sounds like time for your famous small steps - and not for kissing the ice like in Covent Garden! I hope all those walks carrying your crazy pack are now paying off and that you're still feeling strong. Keep your courage, use your determination to carry you on upwards and let your faith and friendships comfort you when the going is hard.
I'm missing you hugely (of course) and thinking of you all the time.
Take lots of care, moja malutka misiulinka!
Love Nigel
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