April 24, 2012
Annapurna 3, as seen from Annapurna 4 (Craig John)
IMG guide Emily Johnston called on the sat phone from Camp 1 (about 17,500ft) to report that the team were all tucked in, after a great day today. The weather was perfect, and the team were treated to great views of Annapurna 2, 3, and Manaslu along the way. They installed 400 meters of fixed rope, anchored to pitons and pickets, to protect the climb up to Camp 1 (which is above the rock buttress).  Everyone carried heavy packs, and they were able to move enough gear and supplies up with them to last for several days.
The plan for tomorrow is to start working the route up to the ridge crest, with the goal to place Camp 2 up near the junction with the summit ridge. Â So far so good!
Eric Simonson