January 17, 2016

Austin’s update from Antarctica first – as you all know, Austin and team summited Vinson yesterday (the 16th) and returned safely to high camp where they spent the night. They are descending now to Vinson base camp. A Twin Otter will be waiting and they are expecting to fly immediately back to the main camp at the Union Glacier. If all goes according to plan and the weather continues to hold, the IL 76 (big plane) is expected to fly to the Ice this evening (the 17th) and our team will be able to get on that flight back to Punta Arenas. We’ll keep fingers crossed that it all works. They could be having a hot shower and sleeping in a hotel bed by late tonight.

For Luke and team, it’s a day off for a little R and R. Romulo’s wife, Patricia, will be hosting the team to a meal with the main course being cuy. Rather than describe that here, I’ll let you all Google this Ecuadorian delicacy. They’ll also spend some time with our friend, author, pilot, adventurer, photographer – Jorge Anhalzer. It will be a very nice day. Then, some team members head home and some remain for an attempt on Chimborazo.

Luke forwarded several interesting photos from their ascent of Antisana. Persistence, determination and great route finding allowed the team to summit yesterday, the 16th. No small accomplishment given the difficulties up high on Antisana, as many guides know.

Phil Ershler

January 16, 2016

This morning on Antizana

In Ecuador, Luke and team had a nice summit day on Antizana. They found a way to get past the final large crevasse and stood on top. Great job. Next up for some of the team is an attempt on Chimborazo.

In Antarctica, Austin and team were rewarded for their patience with a good day to summit Vinson Massif. They will be back at high camp this evening and plan to descend to Vinson base camp tomorrow. Great effort.

Phil Ershler

January 15, 2016

Heading to the summit

Quick updates from Ecuador and Antarctica —- Luke and team are at high camp and will attempt Antisana in the morning. Stars are starting to come out.

Austin and team are at high camp on Vinson Massif and will attempt to summit in the morning. Low winds and clear.

Wish them all luck.

Phil Ershler

January 14, 2016

Luke’s team had a good night at the hotel in Papallacta with a big dinner at the restaurant and a couple of good ‘soaks’ in the hot springs.  They’re prepping now for an attempt on Antisana.

Down on the Ice, Austin reports it’s too warm and it’s snowing too much.  It normally snows very little in Antarctica – it’s just too darn cold.  That doesn’t seem to be the case right now.  Several teams have arrived now at C1 and everyone will be putting their heads together and working on the best course of action.  For today, it’s all about staying at C1 and letting conditions settle before they go anywhere.

Phil Ershler