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 Home > South Col Dispatches Index > April 17 Dispatch

Of Ice and Ropes
Khumbu Glacier - Thrusday, April 17, 2003

Tejas
Tejas
DISPATCHES

Everest 2003 Dispatch Photo
Base Camp
Training

Hello there Cybernauts,

We were able to refresh our rope skills today. The Khumbu Glacier near our camp is a fabulous place to practice all the techniques that we are going to soon need. We strolled amongst the ice ships till we found a 30-foot wall with a flat top. We scrambled up and installed two anchor systems from which we hung two ropes over the ice cliff. We rappelled over the edge using several methods of descent. Then we climbed up with crampons and ascenders. Even I was a bit rusty at first but after several rounds there was marked improvement throughout the team. The trick is to relax and use efficient technique. And the more one does it the smoother it gets. This will pay off high on the mountain.




The afternoon was filled with showers, reading and exploration. It's a treat to live in such an international village. Fascinating people who love the outdoors all living together for many weeks. We are trying to create a map of this highest town on earth. So going from tent to tent to ask where theyıre from has proven to a great social activity. I spoke with folks from 15 different countries making this quite a cosmopolitan place.

The team is now sleeping well and headaches are a thing of the past. We are all looking forward to going into the base of the icefall tomorrow to try our luck on the crevasse ladders. So stay tune for further adventures.

Love,
Vernon

Vern Tejas, Alpine Ascents International Guide and MountainZone.com Correspondent

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