Everest Base Camp & Island Peak Challenge 2010
On October 20th Scott Bushell and Darren Nolan will board a plane headed to Kathmandu in Nepal. From here they will begin a 17-day trek to Everest Base Camp culminating with an attempt at ascending a glacier peak known locally as Imja Tse (Island peak). Island Peak is towering 6,189 meters (20,035 ft) and poses a formidable challenge at high altitude.
Long Trek
The initial trek through the Himalayas will last for roughly 8 or 9 days arriving at Everest Base Camp to acclimatise at an altitude of 5,360 metres (17,590 ft). From here on, altitude sickness can become a problem. With nausea not uncommon, appetites can reduce making the challenge much more demanding.
Freezing Temperatures
From Base Camp, where temperatures will regularly drop to -15 degrees Celsius a further 3 or 4 days remain until they reach the high camp of Imja Tse. At this height and with these temperatures the chalenges enters another dimension and climbers need to dig deeper.
The Final Push
As dawn breaks, Darren and Scott will begin their summit ascent using crampons, harnesses and ice axes as they move onto the hard packed snow wall that leads onto the narrow ridge. The lack of oxygen, due to the thin atmosphere, doesn’t help with speedy progress!
The final push is a further 70 degree steep ascent to the summit and a chance for reflection and celebration.
This impressive expedition is being undertaken to raise money for Cancer Research UK.
Donations appreciated via www.justgiving.com/islandpeak
Thanks,
Scott & Darren
islandpeak@skbpm.com
