June 8, 2019
IMG climbers on the summit of Denali (Mike Haft)
We have an update from Alaska! Andy Polloczek and his crew are back at the landing strip, waiting for clouds to dissipate and clearer skies that will allow for a flight to Talkeetna. Hopefully, they are out today and on their way home in the morning. We thank everyone for an excellent effort!
In other news, Austin Shannon and his team had 100% on top yesterday. Weather was as hoped and it was not a day to sit at high camp. Even though the team had a long day the day before, they all said “let’s go†when they woke to good climbing conditions. “When the fish are running, it’s time to go fishingâ€! Great job by all.
Their return to high camp was uneventful and they’re making their move lower now. They’ll decide along the way whether to stop at 14K or 11K or head all the way down to 7,500 for the night. They’ll do what feels right and at least get down as low as they can. A flight out, weather permitting, is scheduled for tomorrow.
So, all is well in Alaska.
Phil Ershler