AMERICAN CLIMBERS SEEK NEW ROUTE TO SUMMIT OF MT EVEREST

©Fantasy ridge. A close up to the chalenge ahead

In 2006 a group of experienced and dedicated climbers will attempt to reach the top of Mt Everest by a new route.  Among the more than 2000 Everest summits to date, no one has ever reached the Summit by way of the Fantasy Ridge. The new route will offer an entirely new exploration of the great mountain.

The name, Fantasy Ridge, was given by George Leigh Mallory.  It is believed that the name reflects the almost impossible difficulty of the route.  It is thought that the route was attempted twice to a height of 6400 m. and then abandoned. Next Spring, a team will try to turn “fantasy” into reality!

Although the exact details of the plans will be kept strictly confidential for the climbers and sponsors, it can be announced that the approach will not be the traditional Kangshung Glacier.  The proposed route was photographed, video taped, and studied over the last couple of years to explore the new approach via East Rongbuk Glacier.  The results were so encouraging that climbers saw in this a real opportunity to explore new territory leading to a successful summit by the new route.

Departure will take place in early March 2006 giving enough time for acclimatizing and completing all planned climbs, as well as taking advantage of the colder temperatures.  Fantasy Ridge is an exposed
major ridge with a greater chance of avalanche.  The colder temperatures will be an advantage.   Several vertical pitches offer a high altitude challenge testing the ability to perform under severe circumstances.

Because the Fantasy Ridge has never been climbed before, we acknowledge the unknown factor and therefore need to be prepared for any surprises.  Simply put:  a better prepared team has a better chance of success.

While the Fantasy Ridge is a real challenge for any respected climber, its top ends more than 1000 meters below the summit of Mt. Everest.  From the top of the Ridge, climbers must continue across the notorious Pinnacles, another high altitude technical undertaking.  Just above the third Pinnacle the route eases above the last camp of the traditional route (8300 m).  With luck the team will stay on the Northeast Ridge completing the first true Northeast Ridge traverse.

The expedition is open for sponsorship.  In addition, access to the video/photo documentary will be available in exchange for financial support.  The expedition will report exclusively to EverestNews.com.

POTENTIAL SPONSORS:  FOR INFORMATION ABOUT THE MEMBERS OF THE TEAM AND DETAILED PLANS FOR THE CLIMB, PLEASE CONTACT EverestNews.com

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