July 15, 2012

IMG guide Dan Zokaitas reports that the Carstensz team put in a solid 10 hour day yesterday, and managed to go from their Camp 5 to Camp 3, completing the crossing of the Plateau.  Today they go back into the forest, and are heading to the Camp 2.  This was the day on the way in with 5000 ft up and 2000 down, so on the way out it will be reversed, which will be a bit easier.  After that, they hope to reach Sugapa tomorrow with another long day from Camp 2.  Everyone is hanging in there, and looking forward to getting back.  The porters are all fired up to get back too, with the big Papua Bupati elections coming up — they are looking forward to getting back in time to vote!

Eric Simonson

July 12, 2012

Carstensz Base Camp

IMG senior guide Dan Zokaites reports on the sat phone that the Carstensz team is getting loaded up right now to start hiking from Base Camp, on their homeward journey.  They are shooting for a 4 day trek, but if necessary they can take a 5th day.  Their porters all want to be back to Sugapa village in time to vote in the local elections coming up in a few days, so they are motivated to make it happen!  Everyone is doing well and is looking forward to heading out.  The weather has been great and the team are hoping it continues!

July 12, 2012

The Traverse (Jason Edwards)

Success!  Summit!  Dan Zokaites called in yesterday evening to let us know that the team was on top.  Weather was super.  Even better, he called back in the evening (Seattle time), to let us know they were off the climb, back on the ground and about a half hour from high camp.  The trek out begins today.  Getting out is about as hard as getting in so there’s still work to be done.  However, my guess is that there’s going to be a little extra energy in everyone’s step as they now have the summit in their pocket.  Well done, Dan and team.

A little extra piece is associated with this climb – climber Carol, who’s been with us many times before, is now not only the oldest female to have made the Seven Summits (Kosciuszko list) she is also now the oldest female to have completed the Seven including Carstensz.  Well done, Carol.  More than a little impressive.  You’re not supposed to discuss a woman’s age but, in this case, I don’t think Carol will mind.  Think 65.

Phil Ershler