K2 2006: K2 2006 – Some Summit attempts aborted, others unknown at this time

Copyright© Billy Pierson

Update 7/25/2006: It appears most climbers on the Pakistani side have aborted the summit bid. They were not able to make it to camp 4. Too much snow and not enough man power it appears. Climbers appears to be jumping team to stay in the hunt. Unclear if all turned back at this point.

On the Chinese side no word...

Hanif says the weather window is open...

Earlier Update: EverestNews.com has received word that that the Centennial of Alpine Club of Canada Expedition is fine and that summit attempts are planned. On Pakistani side of the mountain, a summit push is underway by 5-8 climbers from various expeditions we are told. (Most expeditions are ATP independent climbers grouped under one permit... long story..) Anyway, we are told Dutch climber Wilco van Rooijen and around 7 others are at camp 3 trying to move to camp 4 where the real summit attempt will start.. If they are break trail to 4, then the push will start and then the high drama will unfold...

God's speed...

Earlier: This experienced team consists of Louis Allec (CA), Jan Kalousek (US), Helena Kopalova (US), Blanka Nedvedicka (CZ), Standa Silhan (CZ), Dr. Hana Weingartl (CA) Leader and Dr. Allan Bohn (CA)...

Earlier: K2-2006, Kashgar: Hello EverestNews.com, here is our first note.

Following days of travel by airplane, train and bus from different places (Canada, USA, Taiwan, Czech Republic) all trekking and climbing members met yesterday in Kashgar in Western China.

After solving the expected problems with emergency oxygen, generator, propane stove for the advanced base camp, etc. we are now ready for the next part - two days on jeep through Yark and to Illik and from there five days trek with camels to base camp.

The travel arrangements and support are provided by Mr. Taher Anvar from Kashgar NewLand International travel Service.

The trekking group will help us with carrying gear and supplies to the advanced base camp.

We plan to attempt the North Ridge in light weight expedition style without oxygen.

We would like to thank our sponsors: Keystone Auto Repairs, Pigeon Mountain Industries, Maple Leaf Constructions, Piston Ring, EverestGear, Vertical Adventures, Pembina Chrysler, Metro Propane, The Battery man for their support.

Thanks a lot, Hana

Background: A strong international group of experienced mountain climbers from Canada, USA and Czech Republic plan to attempt to summit K2 via North Ridge from China. This daring project involves travel to one of the most remote places in the world and difficult climb of the world’s most dangerous peak. The approach is a 10 days hike using camels for transport of material. The climbing route is extremely difficult-in rock classification (V) and ice (50-60%). The elevation difference from advanced base camp to the summit is more than 3 vertical km.

Much more on this group in the future!

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