Makalu 2001, at 7400m

The Makalu expedition “Aquile di San Martino di Castrozza e Primiero” ahs established Camp 3 at Makalu Lha at 7400m and the weather is stable. The American expedition attempting the West Pillar has abandoned its attempt after having reached 7500m

PlanetMountain.com

May 2001

Traduci in

09/05/2001

Everything is going according to plan for the Makalu expedition “Aquile di San Martino di Castrozza e Primiero”. As is well known, the period from 10-15 May is statistically the most favourable for an ascent, and it is in this short “corridor” that the “Aquile di San Martino” plan their summit attempt.

On 8 May Renzo and Giampaolo Corona pitched a tent at Makalu Lha at 7400m, where they spent the night before returning to ABC to recuperate prior to their summit bid. The other team members worked hard to refurbish Camps 1 and 2, and they too are now at ABC.

The group moral is understandably very high given the way things are developing. Without a doubt their chances of success are good, especially if the recent spell of stable weather continues.

This is the crucial moment for all expeditions, and the activity at Makalu is intensifying daily. At present Korean and Spanish alpinists are attempting to reach the summit (the latest reports indicate that they have almost reached Camp 4 at 7700m), while Austrian alpinists are situated at Makalu Lha (7400m).

The expedition from New Zealand is currently preparing for its 'final push' at ABC, while the Iranian expedition is gathering its strengths after having reached 7900m. The American expedition attempting the West Pillar abandoned its attempt after having reached 7500m and their return is now planned for 13/05.

The various phases of the expediton can be followed on the official website www.makalu2001.org

Further information: Makalu