August 18, 2013
Tomb of Russia’s Unknown Soldier (Phil Ershler)
We’re back. Actually, most of us are back. A few of the team are staying in Moscow for a couple more days to enjoy, see more of the sights and unwind. And, a couple of team members are doing the same in Amsterdam. For the rest of us, it’s back to work on Monday morning.
Bitter sweet to end a trip. Hard to say good-bye but we’re also anxious to get home. Maybe that’s a good thing – to enjoy your adventure experiences but also to have a home life that always pulls you back. And we’re often said that the end of one adventure is only the beginning of the next.
We didn’t put everyone on top but certainly a good majority of the team stood there and everyone got super high. And, everyone climbed from the hut. No snow cats for this team. No one even suggested they wanted to ride half way up the mountain. My kind of team. Everyone on this climb was a total success. They stayed together as a team, tool care of each other as a team and reveled in each member’s success. As a guide, I couldn’t have asked for more.
My special thanks for Igor Tsaruk, Sasha Sak and Romulo Cardenas. Guide team extraordinaire. Each played their role perfectly and made this trip fun, successful and rewarding.
My first trip to Elbrus was in 1989 and this was likely my last. We’ll post 2014 dates shortly and we’ll have two great IMG Senior Guides at the helm. Igor and Sasha remain instrumental to our success and look forward to climbing with you next season. Don’t delay. Both 2013 trips filled completely so don’t be left holding the bag. You’ve got to experience Russia – at least once!
Phil Ershler