January 3, 2019

Jonathan Schrock and his Aconcagua team are doing a power walk today.  Plaza Mulas to the trailhead, then the ‘duffle shuffle’ and then driving to Mendoza.  The horses are definitely heading for the barn.  A long day, for sure, but made infinitely easier with the knowledge that this team busted butt, endured some ridiculous Aconcagua winds, the Viento Blanco, and managed to pull off a safe, successful and enjoyable summit.  That is no small task.

We congratulate them all and will get one final team photo from Jonathan and Tincho before declaring the trip a wrap.  Mendoza is in their sights.

And, while Jonathan, Tincho and crew are walking, Austin and his team at high camp on Vinson are resting.  A couple of big days have put them at high camp and in position to take their summit shot.  No super hurry now, Austin’s just trying to pick the right day weather-wise and strength wise to go get the job done.  This is where guiding becomes more art than technical skill —- finding just that right balance.  Regardless, we’re looking forward to that phone call from the summit.  They’re patient and determined and that’s normally a winning combination.

Phil Ershler

January 2, 2019

Mule Train Leaving the Plaza de Mulas Basecamp (Luke Reilly)

Jonathan, Martin and Co. have escaped the winds at C3 and are now down at the Plaza de Mulas basecamp.  This crew has simply done a super job.  The tradition at basecamp after a successful climb like this is to put down a couple slices of pizza and wash it down with an ice-cold beer or soda.  I’m guessing there will be a couple of high altitude showers this afternoon as well to begin the process of re-entry into civilization.  They will begin the long walk out to the road tomorrow where another shower will be waiting for them in Mendoza.

An IMG Team Pulling into Low Camp on Vinson (Luke Reilly)

Austin was able to make the move from Vinson basecamp to low camp yesterday and has reported that the weather has been spectacular.  They are taking a rest day today at low camp.  It’s time to start looking closely at weather models and put together a good plan for heading up to high camp to get into position for tagging the top.  The climb from low camp to high camp is a fun one and involves ascending a fixed line, similar to that on Denali.

Luke Reilly