February 13, 2013
Aconcagua and the Polish Glacier (Phil Ershler)
Mike, Josh, Leandro and team, all their gear and all fingers and toes are now back in Mendoza. Lots to sort and organize and pack away today but lots of time for more meals and naps, too. Big dinner tonight and flights home for most of the crew tomorrow. Safe, successful, enjoyable and a great learning experience – that pretty much wraps up the Big Four of an IMG expedition. From Mike to our most junior arriero (mule driver) they all deserve a huge congratulations. IMG probably emphasizes this more than any other guide service but Aconcagua is no trek. This is a serious undertaking and should be tackled only by climbers who are fit and prepared to work as part of a team. IMG climbers climb Aconcagua. No one is waiting on them, putting up their tents and carrying all their gear. Our team members are active participants who come with IMG because they want to climb. Pretty cool.
Congratulations to Mike’s team. That wraps up our 2012/13 season. Seven expeditions in all. Five groups reached the top; weather said no to the other two. But no accidents and no close calls. We call that a very good season.
Phil Ershler