December 21, 2016
Aconcagua Team Ready to Head out from Mendoza
The 2016/17 Aconcagua season is off and running. Jonathan Schrock and Martin Lucero will be working with our first team of the season. No issues with everyone getting to Mendoza but one piece of luggage just didn’t want to show up. Jonathan and Martin lined up rental gear, just in case. Well, just in case was a necessity. Never fun to lose a bag but nice that options are available in Mendoza, given enough time and enough knowledge. With final shopping complete, gear checks done and permits in hand, the crew headed out from Mendoza to Penitentes Tuesday morning. IMG has worked with the Grajales family for all our expedition support on Aconcagua since 1981. They continue to be a great addition to our programs.
More gear packing/sorting and making up “mule loads†and it was time for one last hotel night and a bed. Wednesday morning is the start of the 3 day approach to base camp. Mules carry the bulk of the equipment to that point. Great way to acclimate and just into the swing of expedition life. Crew is healthy and chomping at the bit and weather is very good.
We’ll keep you posted. FYI – trip #2 for the season begins in a week.
Phil Ershler