Everest 2013

Blog

Final blog - 60th anniversary celebrations07:38 GMT, 30/May/13

By last Thursday most of our team had either flown by helicopter back to Kathmandu, or had begun trekking out from base camp. Our Sirdar, Pema, remained in base camp with members of our kitchen staff to welcome trekkers who would visit base camp on 29 May.

The rest of us arrived back in Kathmandu at the weekend and yesterday, the remaining members of the team celebrated their summit success at the British Embassy. There were climbers from many of the other expeditions on the mountain this season and the special guests such as Reinhold Messner. We would like to thank the British Embassy for a memorable afternoon. Tomorrow, David and I fly back to the UK. For those of you who have been following the Everest blog over the past two months, I hope we have been able to give you some insight into what it is like to climb Everest. We had a very strong, tightly knit team on Everest this year, which, coupled with our strong Sherpa team and hard-working base camp staff, meant we enjoyed much success. David and I would like to thank the team for providing us with so many great memories.

Matt Parkes

Expedition Update07:30 GMT, 22/May/13

Expedition update

The climbers that summited on 19 May have all left Base Camp by helicopter for Kathmandu. Congratulations to Dean, Christian and Trond who all completed their '7 summits' quest with their ascents of Everest. The team who summited on the 20 May have arrived safely in Base Camp. Nacer has become the first person from Morocco to climb Everest and has been sent a personal message of congratulations from the King of Morocco. James (who has also completed his Seven Summits with this ascent) and Andy will be celebrating for the Channel Isles. We believe, Guy Manning is the first person from the Cayman Islands to climb Everest, but is unlikely to find an alternative use for his down suit when he returns home. He suffered a minor cold injury to his right foot on summit day and has flown by helicopter to have this seen to by a specialist in Kathmandu, and to avoid further aggravating the injury by trekking for 3 days. John is the first dentist from Lymm to climb Everest and possibly the first person to stand on the summit wearing a hat made by his daughter.

The 3 climbers now in Base Camp intend to leave tomorrow (2 by helicopter and one by foot)

David, Matt, Gavin and Pasang will leave Base Camp tomorrow morning for the 3 day trek to Lukla. They hope to get a flight to Kathmandu on 26 May, and will be there in time for the 'Everest Day' celebrations planned for 29 May.

Expedition statistics:

Climbers at the start of the expedition (31st March) : 10

Climbers on the summit of Everest (19 & 20 May) : 10

Expedition leaders at the start of the expedition : 3

Expedition leaders on the summit of Everest (19 & 20 May) : 3

Total number of climbing sherpas : 11

Total number of climbing sherpas on the summit of Everest (19 & 20 May) : 11

Total number of Everest summiteers in the Jagged Globe 2013 expedition 24 out of 24.

David Hamilton, Everest Base Camp

Summit photos14:08 GMT, 21/May/13

We have added a gallery of images from the climbers who reached the summit on 19 May, as they have now descended the mountain (some of the team are already back in Kathmandu). The two Guys and Nacer have descended to Camp and will return to base camp tomorrow, with James (who opted for a full day's rest in C2 on the way down).

Everest 2013 gallery

Update from Gavin in BC12:49 GMT, 20/May/13

The team made up of Nacer and the two Guys that summited last night are safely back at Camp 4. They are enjoying a well-earned rest after returning to the South Col at lunch time today. After such a tremendous effort they are recuperating before leaving for Camp 2 in the morning and then on to Base Camp the following day.

The other seven members led by David and Matt are now at Camp 2 after a big day of descending down from Camp 4. The route was crowded with teams moving both up and down the fixed lines. They will then leave at around 5am tomorrow morning (Tuesday 21 May) and should be back in Base Camp by 9am.

The Sherpa team will clear Camp 4 tomorrow and will carry down over a hundred empty oxygen bottles, seven tents, stoves, rubbish, along with their own personal equipment.

Gavin Melgaard

Update from Matt Parkes in Camp 210:27 GMT, 20/May/13

Matt Parkes just phoned Jagged Globe HQ in Sheffield to tell us that all summiteers from 19 May are safely in Camp 2. Guy, Guy and Nacer, plus Sherpas from last night are in Camp 4 on the South Col and will descend to Camp 2 tomorrow.

Matt said that it had been very warm on Sunday morning when they summited - he had worn just his liner gloves.

100% Success - 24/2400:49 GMT, 20/May/13

Nacer Ibnabdeljalil, Guy Munnoch and Guy Manning summited this morning with Sherpas, Dawa Gelji, Tashi and Karma. We believe this is the first Moroccan summit of Everest. All 24 members of the Jagged Globe climbing team have summited over 19/20 May, a fantastic achievement. Thank you to our Base Camp Manager and Chef, Gavin Melgaard, for keeping us updated through the night. Thank you also to our Sirdar, Pemma, and to all our Sherpas, without whom this would not be possible. For now, we wish the team a safe descent.

2nd summit push underway21:16 GMT, 19/May/13

Between 0530 and 0830 this morning 7 climbers, leaders David Hamilton, Matt Parkes and Pasang, plus 8 of our incredibly strong Sherpas summited Everest. They had arrived at the South Col at around noon the previous day, then rested prior to a c2000 departure on 18 May. 3 Jagged Globe climbers; Nacer from Morocco (hoping to become the first Moroccan to summit Everest), Guy and Guy chose to remain on the South Col for a further 24 hours to give them more time to rest. They had already made the tough climb from Base Camp to Camp 2, Camp 2 to Camp 3 and Camp 3 to Camp 4 on the South Col over the previous 3 days. So, over the past 33 hours or so, they have been sleeping, eating, breathing in bottled oxygen and getting psyched up for the hardest days of their lives.

Right now (22.12 BST) all three climbers, plus their climbing Sherpas, are on one of the toughest sections of the climb, between the Balcony and the South Summit. It's dark. It's cold (gustier than last night) and all they are focussing on is the next step in front of them, illuminated by their head torches. They left the South Col at c2030hrs and have a long way to go.

As the rest of the team are camping at the South Col having summited this morning, the climbers tonight will be communicating with some of the Sherpas on the South Col (who can see them for much of the route), rather than radioing down to base camp. If and when we hear news of their climb, we'll post updates via Twitter @jaggedglobe hashtag #everest

Safely back at the South Col09:28 GMT, 19/May/13

David Hamilton reports that all 18 summiteers are safely tucked up in their sleeping bags back at the South Col. They will descend to Camp 2 tomorrow morning. David thinks about 120+ climbers summited Everest this morning. Our climbers hit the top between 0530 and 0830. Tonight we expect the rest of our team to attempt the summit. Stay tuned and congratulations to all of those who did a great job today!

Everest More Summits03:34 GMT, 19/May/13

All Jagged Globe Team members who left the South Col last night, reached the summit this morning. Three more, Nacer and the 2 Guys, are expected to go for it this evening, having had a rest on the South Col since getting there yesterday afternoon.

The weather seemed settled and not too windy, from what could be seen from Dan's live video interview from the summit with BBC News. It was, soon, the BBC's lead story! The weather is forecast to be better over the next few days so, it seems, the window is open with enough time to allow ascents for a couple of more days yet.

To name check the summiteers so far: James with Pasang and Jangbu, Matt & Dawa Tashi, John and Chonba, Dan & Thundu, Trond & Tsering Pemba, Christian & Wangdi, Andrew & Pema Chiring, Dean & Kylu and David.

Many thanks to for Gavin, who is anchoring the ascent from base camp, and remains on duty till the team gets back to the South Col - it seems base camp is a harder place to communicate with easily, using VHF radio, than it is to chat to the BBC in London using an HTC Phone!

Best wishes to the Team for their descent.

Red Nose Summits02:56 GMT, 19/May/13

A double first - the first Red Nose to the highest point on the planet and the first broadcast interview from the Summit! Well done Dan - most importantly for making time and breath to praise the Sherpas who helped Dan get his Red Nose and himself there. Very good to hear Dan's thanks particularly for Thundu, one of our longest serving Sherpas, and with whom Simon recce'd Putha Hiunchuli last October - a wonderful man to spend a month with, whilst walking & climbing in Nepal. The BBC are now leading with Dan's interview as their "top story"!

Everest Summits02:17 GMT, 19/May/13

Latest news is that Matt and Dawa Tashi are on the top. Seems from Dan's tracker he is extremely close too. BBC News are waiting to cover a live feed with Dan from the Top, making history for a 2-way live broadcast interview.

South Summit and Beyond19/May/13

At 00:24 BST Gavin reported most of the team were on the South Summit. Then at 00:51, he updated saying the first team member had reached the top along with Pasang and Jangbu.

Everest Progress20:13 GMT, 18/May/13

2113 BST, just before 2 am local time - Gavin reports from base camp that team members are at the Balcony.

Everest Team On Their Way15:32 GMT, 18/May/13

Gavin has sent a message from base camp, to say David, Matt, Pasang and team left the South Col about 20 minutes ago, destination: the summit. Good luck to them from all of us here in Sheffield.

At the South Col11:10 GMT, 18/May/13

The team are all at Camp 4 on the South Col resting having left Camp 3 at around 6am this morning. They made the journey in around six hours, crossing firstly the 'Yellow Band' and then the 'Geneva Spur.' Camp 4 is eight hundred metres higher than their previous camp, located at just under 8,000m.

They are all resting on oxygen and trying to eat and drink to retain their strength before setting off on their summit push later tonight. I've just conveyed the latest weather forecast to leaders, David and Matt and will talk with them before they leave. Myself, Pema (Sidar) and the other Base Camp Sherpa staff will be manning the radios to follow their accent during the night. We will be relaying information to Jagged Globe HQ in the UK, so look out for updates here and on Twitter (@jaggedglobe hashtag #everest). We are all wishing them a safe and successful climb.

Gavin BC Manager

Sleeping at Camp 3 on 0213:46 GMT, 17/May/13

Base camp is a quiet place since the team left at 1am on the morning of 16 May. They made it to Camp 2 by breakfast time (6 hours) and enjoyed a good days rest before leaving early this morning for Camp 3 (7,300m), which they reached around midday. They are now in their tents on the Lohste Face at Camp 3 where they will spend the night sleeping on oxygen.

I spoke to David a short while ago as I passed on the latest weather forecast. The winds are predicted to be within limits for the night of the 18 May and so they plan on making that their summit push then. Everyone is doing well so we are crossing our fingers.

Gavin, BC Manager

On the move!08:28 GMT, 15/May/13

On the move...

After a few days rest at Base Camp the Jagged Globe team are ready to head up the mountain again. The climbers will leave Base Camp at 01.00 tomorrow morning (16 May) together with two of our Sherpa team and one of the Camp Two cooks. The majority of the Sherpa team will follow on one day later. Our weather forecasts indicate a period of good weather from 18 to 21 May and we are hoping to climb to the summit during this 'window'. During the next few days the team on the mountain will be in contact with Base Camp by VHF radio. Gavin and the Base Camp Sherpa team will relay news from the climbers to the Jagged Globe office team in Sheffield, who will in turn post updates on the Jagged Globe website and Twitter (@JaggedGlobe, hashtag #everest)

The climbers are all in high spirits and feeling confident for the task ahead. We have enjoyed a well-planned and well-executed acclimatisation programme since arriving in Nepal. We believe that we have one of the strongest groups of climbers on the mountain this year and we are benefiting from the support of one of the best Sherpa teams. Many of the other climbing groups have seen several of their members abandon their plans to climb Everest and go home. We are one of the very few teams to retain all the climbing members of the expedition, and the expedition leaders are confident that there is a very good chance of all the climbers reaching the top in the next few days.

David Hamilton

Climbers at C2 descend to BC12:30 GMT, 13/May/13

Five of the team had climbed to Camp 2 on Saturday, but descended back to base camp this morning...

Five of us, myself, Guy, John, Andrew and James all set of a day ahead of the rest of the team to C2. Our aim was to set of a day early so that we could have a rest day in 2 before going to 3 and hopefuly to the summit a few days after. Unfortunately the following day the forecast changed and winds increased too mucnh on our target summit day.

The team in BC decided not to join us and review the situation. Last night the weather window had moved back towards the 18th onwards so this morning we decided to descend to BC and join the rest of the team. This means that we are forced to endure more of Gavin's fine BC food.

Matt Parkes

Everest - The Waiting Game (or Weather Watching )09:48 GMT, 11/May/13

The final phase of the expedition has arrived and all the members of the climbing team are ready to go for the summit. All we need is a forecast of good weather and we are ready to leave from Base Camp at a few hours notice. The climb to the summit will take 4 days, so we are looking for a forecast of acceptable weather conditions 4-5 days ahead. At this time of year the most significant consideration is the windspeeds that we are likely to encounter above 8000m. Weather information has become more sophisticated and more widely available in recent years. There are a number of websites that give 'free' forecast information for any position (Lat / Long) on the planet. This is created from raw data made freely available by various national weather services. However such 'automated' services do not fully take into account the Himalayan topography and the effect that this has on static and transient weather systems.

There are a few professional meteorologists in the world who offer specialist daily forecasts for Everest expeditions. The Jagged Globe expediton is purchasing forecasts from two sources, one based in Switzerland, and one based in Belgium. They both draw on similar computer generated models of the Himalayan weather systems and add their own interpretations of the weather trends. For Everest climbers the most significant feature is the position of the jetstream, a high level wind that can touch the summit of Mt Everest. As long as there are no other complicating factors if the jet lies well to the north or south of Everest then summit windspeeds can be low, but if the jetstream lies over the summit windspeeds can be very high. Climbers are generally looking for forecast windspeeds no higher than 20 kts (30 km/p/h) between 8,000m and 9,000m. Jetsream winds can easily be double these figures, and higher. For the past week the models have been showing summit windspeeds of 30-40 kts. There are indications that these may fall in about a week's time and if these forecasts hold then we will look to take advantage of this period to launch our summit bid.

David Hamilton

PS 5-10cm of new snow in Base Camp overnight - hence the snowy BC pictures

Sherpas - Strong, Swift and Sure15:29 GMT, 10/May/13

The Jagged Globe sherpa team are all back in Base Camp for a short rest before the summit push begins. Over the last 4 days the team of 11 people have carried all the expedition equipment from Camp Two at 6,400m to Camp Four (South Col) at 7,950m. 8 of the sherpas made this carry twice while 3 of the team made the trip three times. Oxygen bottles make up the bulk of the material carried, but tents, food, fuel, stoves etc are also heavy.

While sherpas are paid a basic wage for the time they spend working for an expedition the largest component of their 'take home pay' is the carry bonuses that they get according to how much 'stuff' they carry on the mountain. Between Camps Two and Four 8kg is considered as a 'single load'. On the carries made on 7th, 8th and 10th May most of the Jagged Globe sherpa team carried 'double' or 'triple' loads (16kg or 24kg). However four of the team (Pema Tsering, Tsering Pemba, Tashi & Dawa Gelgi) carried loads of 32kg on at least one trip.

The fastest of the sherpa team (and this does not always mean those with the lightest loads) climb form Camp Two to Camp Four in 5-6 hours, returning to Camp Two in round trip times of around 8 hours. Most of the team complete the round trip in less than 12 hours.

Now that this phase of the expedition is completed we have 22 bottles of oxygen at Camp Three 7,200m and 110 bottles at Camp Four 7,950m. There are 13 tents standing at Camp Two (plus dinning tent, kitchen tent & toilet), 7 tents standing at Camp Three, and 8 tents ready for pitching at Camp Four.

The expedition team in Base Camp are watching the weather forecasts and are hoping to begin a summit push in the next few days.

David Hamilton, Expedition Leader

Ropes fixed to summit, detailed account from last rotation08:16 GMT, 10/May/13

Well it's been a busy few days and at present we are all enjoying a well earned rest in BC! I thought that I would expand upon our activities over the last few days. During our last rotation on the mountain the team achived some important goals. Firstly we climbed from BC to Camp 2 in one jump - I think its fair to say that most people found this very challenging. We made an early start, which is always difficult! Setting off at 12:30 am we entered the icefall once more. Everything was going well, the team climbed swiftly in what felt like warm conditions. David led the group and I climbed at the back with John, Nacer and Pasang. As we approached Camp 1 the temperature suddenly dropped, this took its toll on everyone. We were tired and cold, the journey across the Wesern Cwm had suddenly become a bit of a grind! The Western Cwm is a huge valley, at one end the Lhotse face dominates the view ahead, on your left is the West ridge of Everest, the summit for the main part is hidden from view. On your right another imposing wall, the huge face of Nuptse. You climb the glacier zig zagging between huge crevasses that get wider every time you journey up the valley. Crevasses that are not so wide are bridged by multiple ladders lashed together by rope. As always it is exciting crossing the ladders, for a moment you forget about the cold, engrossed in concentration as you carefully place your crampons between the rungs of the ladder. One of the team members (no names mentioned) decided to take my mind off the cold a little more by throwing some belongings down a crevasse, so once again I abseiled down and retrieved the items. With the excitement over we pushed on to C2, everyone arrived shivering and exhausted!

The following day we enjoyed a rest day, relaxing in the heat of the tents, eating lamb shanks and catching up on sleep.... life is tough!!

After a good rest the team set about achieving another goal, sleeping in camp 3. This involved another early start from camp 2. We all met in the mess tent for a quick breakfast, I was first to arrive followed by Dan, Dean, David and eventually everyone else. Each person looked around the tent, eating porridge and drinking coffee in an attempt to wake up and get all cylinders firing for a good hard climb up to 7200m. Our camp is situatred in the very desirable and highly saught after lower end of C2. It is a pleasant spot but it does mean we have a little furtehr to walk to the base of the Lhotse face than other teams in the neighborhood. We all set off at a good pace and in no time at all we reached the bottom of the fixed lines. Thankfully it was a quiet morning with no other teams to consider as we readied ourselves for the climb above. The Lhotse face is covered in ice and snow and is steep enough that it requires ropes to be fixed from its base, to camp 3 and then on to the south col. When ascending the face each climber clips into the ropes as they go to prevent any serious falls on route. David led the way followed by Nacer, The Norwegians, Trond and Christian and the rest of us. The weather was fair but after about 100m an icy wind began to blow across the face. After enduring this for a while many of the team members began to get very cold hands. Whilst not serious this experience did teach the team an important lesson. Many people had colder hands than they should have had, often it is difficult deal with cold hands on a fixed line and you need to establish a good system with warmer gloves packed so that they are easily accessible.

Camp 3 is situated high on the Lhotse face. Our valiant team of Sherpas carved a big ledge out of the ice which takes a considerable amount of effort, forming a balcony in the sky with amazing views back down the Westen Cwm. All the tents are pitched in a row, and everyone was eager to settle down for vital rest after the climb. Camp 3 is high so I set off down the line of tents to see how everyone was doing after a difficult day. I returned to my tent happy that the team was on good form having received a large amount of light hearted abuse and banter from each person, plus an extra helping from Andrew at the end of the line. The only issue that was drawn to my attention was that Guy had forgotten his WAG BAG (when you need a number 2 on the mountain, you do it in this special bag so that it can be carried down and disposed of correctly) this problem was quickly solved when his friend John came to the rescue and offered to share his with Guy. As I walked back to my tent I reflected on the many rewarding and touching moments that happen in the mountains between fellow climbers and friends...

The team slept on oxygen giving them an important opportunity to get used to using the system in preparation for summit day. Everyone awoke feeling as well as can be expected after a night at 7200m. After a quick breakfast and a coffee we headed off back down to C2, after negotiating the ficed lines down the Lhotse face we arriced at our destination and spent an afternoon in the sunny suburbs of Camp 2. We were planning to stay at camp 2 and see how the weather evolved, with plan to try for the summit shortly after. Unfortunately we were not quite ready for this brief opportunity so we descended to BC the day after.

As I write this our final load of equipment is on is way to the South Col. The team is acclimatised and in good shape. We wait in BC, watching the waeather and plotting our next move. Watch this space....

Matt Parkes

We've heard that the ropes have been fixed to the summit this morning, 10 May - the route is now open!

Relaxing in base camp11:26 GMT, 08/May/13

All the team arrived back at base camp from Camp 2 this morning and were greeted with a full cooked breakfast. Meanwhile our Sherpas have done a load carry of oxygen and equipment from Camp 2 up to Camp 4 on the South Col. As long as the weather stays OK, the ropes should be fixed from the South Col to the summit during the next few days. Everyone is feeling fit and strong in preparation for the summit push while enjoying the small creature comfort of a hot shower here at base camp. Here's a photo taken on Monday as the team climbed to Camp 3.

Resting in Camp 206:25 GMT, 07/May/13

All the climbers are back in Camp 2 resting this morning having descended from their overnight at Camp 3. They left at 0600 and were back in C2 in less than 2 hours. We currently have 3 Sherpas carrying to Camp 4 on the South Col, with 8 more heading up tomorrow.

Just in from Gavin at BC

"All the team are back in Camp 2 after spending a night acclimatising at Camp 3, which is situated on the steep Lohtse Face at 7200 meters. Our excellent Sherpa team had made a ledge for the row of tents with possibly the world's best views.

I climbed up with them from Camp 2 to Camp 3 at first light on the morning of the 6th and was impressed at how quickly and efficiently everyone scaled the face. A few of us found our hands got quite cold before the sunlight inched it's way up the Western Cwm and onto the Lohste Face. But a quick change from gloves to mitts soon sorted that.

We had all left Base Camp at midnight on the 4th and climbed through the night directly to Camp 2. While the team carried their high altitude gear I delivered some food supplies including lamb shanks which were slow cooked in a minted sauce and served over creamy mash with a side of steamed greens. Good food really is fuel in the mountains so hopefully this paid some part in their quick accent. "

All team in Camp 3 7,400m05:51 GMT, 06/May/13

The climbers left Camp 2 at 0500 this morning, arriving at Camp 3 between 0930 and 1030. They report that the weather was calm and sunny and the mountain very quiet. They will spend the rest of the day in Camp 3 and sleep there tonight, before descending back down to Camp 2. Gavin will update from base camp later today with some photos.

Accident at Camp 3 - Jagged Globe team safe08:33 GMT, 05/May/13

We have heard that there has been an accident at Camp 3 this morning. Our climbers are currently resting in camp 2 and our Sherpas are now back in base camp. None of our team were near the incident, but it sounds as though it was serious and our thoughts are very much with those involved. Our team are deliberating whether to climb to camp 3 tomorrow, as the forecast now suggests winds increasing.

Move to Camp 209:14 GMT, 04/May/13

The team left base camp this morning at 0030 and took 6.5 hours to climb all the way to Camp 2, arriving at 0700. Camp 1 is no longer be utilised at this stage in the expedition. Our Sherpas are up at Camp 3 today, organising the camp there.

Sherpa profiles13:13 GMT, 02/May/13

The team are currently in base camp, having arrived back yesterday. They're already preparing to head up again. The Sherpas have carried to camp 3 and some of them are also taking a break in base camp. We thought we'd introduce a few of the key personalities. They include Thundu (who is one of the famous '7 brothers' noted in the Guinness Book of Records, having all climbed Everest), Tsering Pemba, who has worked for Jagged Globe for the past 6 years, and our Climbing Sirdar on this expedition, Dawa Gyalje. Dawa is one of a growing number of Sherpas hoping to attain the internationally-recognised IFMGA qualification. Only a handful of Sherpas currently hold this qualification, one of them is Pasang Tenzing, an assistant leader on this expedition and also a brother of Thundu!

THUNDU
Age 34
Home: From Rolwaling, but lives in Kathmandu.
Summits: Everest x 6, Cho Oyu x 4, Ama Dablam x 1.

Thundu is one of our most experienced Sherpas and a good friend to Jagged Globe. He has worked for us for 13 years, with his first expedition being to Kangchenjunga in 2000; a trip organised for the British Army by Jagged Globe. Since then he has worked on our expeditions every spring and autumn season. Outside of the main climbing seasons he spends his time with his wife and 3 sons at home in Kathmandu. Two of his children are currently in school there.

TSERING PEMBA
Age 26
Home: Rolwaling
Summits: Everest x 5, Cho Oyu x 2, Manaslu x 1, Ama Dablam x 2.

Tsering has worked for us since 2006. Not only has he packed in many summits over the past 6 years, he has furthered his technical climbing skills by completing both the basic and advanced mountaineering courses run by the Nepal Mountaineering Association (NMA). Tsering is married with one son and when he is not climbing he enjoys spending time with his family, visiting his mother in Rolwaling and doing some indoor climbing in Kathmandu. Tsering hopes to continue to develop his professional mountaineering.

DAWA GYALJE
Age 32
Home: Rolwaling

Summits: Everest x 7, Cho Oyu x 1, Shisapangma x 1, Manaslu x 1

Dawa has also climbed on 2 expeditions to Lhotse South Face during winter, reaching a few metres below the summit.

Dawa is our Climbing Sirdar, this means that he will manage the sherpa team on the mountain. When not climbing big Himalayan peaks he enjoys spending time with his wife and taking walks around Kathmandu or Rolwaling when visiting family. Dawa says he really enjoys the different aspects of climbing and has just enrolled in the IFMGA Aspirant Guide Scheme here in Nepal.

Tagging the base of the Lhotse Face - John's impressions15:54 GMT, 01/May/13

The team were sorry to part with Gavin and his culinary expertise as Matt set a brisk pace leading us up through Camp 2. The camp sprawls over 100 vertical meters and it took us 45 minutes of winding up, over and around ice walls and plateaus covered in rocky debris, before we put crampons on and David took over. The steep sides of the Western Cwm mean that direct sunlight does not hit Camp 2 until about 0830, so we had plenty of time to enjoy the gigantic Lhotse Face in the cool light of dawn. For most of us this was the first time to see where we were to go "face to face" with the steeper slopes. The extraordinary Sherpas have already fixed a line to Camp 3 and we met several groups of them carrying what seem to be impossible loads both to set up Camp 3 and to fix lines above to Camp 4. We have nothing but respect for the Sherpas and are always happy to meet our friends in the Jagged Globe Sherpa climbing team.

Everyone felt really well at the foot of the Lhotse Face and, after a few photos, we beat a hasty retreat to get back to our camp before the sun hit us. Life at all the camps is a continual battle against the cold in the evenings and the excessive heat of the sun during the day. All our climbing is done in the pre-dawn and dawn light and we spend the rest of the day like lizards - moving from shade to shade. The days are punctuated with a morning snooze to catch up on lost sleep, the very British pastime of tea at 1130 and 1530, with plenty of banter and crowned with the excellent main meals from Gavin and his Sherpa cook team.

An exceptionally hot afternoon saw Andrew, Guy Manning, Nacer and Dan's apres-lunch card game disrupted by a flash flood through the mess tent. All hands joined in an effort to divert the stream of melt water while Guy Munnoch and I adopted an overseeing role. The following day saw a return down to base camp via a drop off at our remaining tents at Camp 1. We are all becoming more adept at movement through the Icefall and the only occasions of note were Andrew's attempt to throw Dean's camera down a crevasse! (Fortunately Matt and Pasang came to the rescue and retrieved it) and a magnificent breakfast of bacon, beans, french toast, sausages and mushrooms - how we suffer!

A short message to say hello to family, friends and everyone at Eaglebrow. To Natasha - the hat was really great moving between Camps 1 and 2. To Jessica "Night Bear"! To Karen I miss you so much.

John Moorhouse, climber and team member

Update from Gavin back in BC14:57 GMT, 30/Apr/13

There is no experience quite like moving up through the Khumbu Icefall at 2am under a full moon. The twenty shades of blue ice took on a mystical appearance as we made our way through the jumble of seracs and crossed over the ladders spanning the crevasses. Everyone made very good time arriving at Camp 1 within five hours. We spent the remainder of the day relaxing, eating and chatting in our tents.

The next morning at 5am we were on the move again, this time for Camp 2. Zig zagging amongst lines of crevasses, following a safe route, we made our way deeper into the Western Cwm.

Camp 2 is nestled below the Lohste Face and is where we have our advanced camp, complete with two cooks and a dining tent. After a day's rest the team set off at 5am this morning for a two-hour acclimatisation hike up to the base of the Lhotse Face. I parted the others as I left for BC with one of our amazing Sherpas, Pemba Chirring, who had been part of the rope fixing team for Camp 3. I will see the rest of the team again as I greet them with a huge 'Welcome Back Breakfast' tomorrow morning, when they arrive back at Base Camp.

Gavin: Jagged Globe Extreme Chef

Team acclimatising well06:08 GMT, 30/Apr/13

We've had a short update from the team, who are currently resting in Camp 2 today in the Western Cwm. Everyone is acclimatising well and reached 6,800m at the foot of the Lhotse Face this morining. They were moving well and made good time. They are now resting in their tents and will head down to base camp very early tomorrow morning (1 May). We'll post a more detailed report and photos, once the team have returned to base camp.

Team in Camp 207:26 GMT, 28/Apr/13

The Everest team are all well in camp 2 at 6,400m in the Western Cwm. They left camp 1 this morning at 0535 and arrived in camp 2 at 0745. The weather is fine and they're currently relaxing in camp having had lunch.

Xtreme Everest 2 and Impressions from Trond13:05 GMT, 26/Apr/13

The Xtreme Everest team has now been at base camp for about five weeks and are approaching the end of their time here. During their time at base camp we have been studying groups of volunteers who have trekked up through the Khumbu. Valley The purpose of the study is to compare how lowland people compare to Sherpas during their ascent to base camp. It follows on from the Caudwell Xtreme Everest expedition, also organised by Jagged Globe, in 2007.

The weather was cold when the team arrived at base camp prior to all the rest of the climbing teams, but now the spring warmth is in full force. It has been a busy time with two treks per week arriving at base camp, but with only one more to go the end is in sight. Once the study is complete at base camp, the team there will descend back to Kathmandu, to be reunited with the rest of researchers from there and Namche Bazaar.

Matt Parkes

Jagged Globe team member, Trond Eilertsen, is from Oslo, Norway. Here he gives his impressions of the expedition so far:

It is fair to say that joining a climbing group for Mount Everest, the ultimate goal is to summit and descend safely. Not achieving a summit will most likely expose each of us to questions and necessitate explanations towards family, friends and colleagues upon our return. The climbers in our group appear strong and determined. Luckily, both David, Matt and Pasang are experienced and competent, hopefully telling each of us (if necessary) if we are not up to attempting the summit.

However, irrespective of this focus on the summit, considerable time is spent on acclimatisation both by resting days in base camp and climbing days to gain higher altitude. So far we are in the midst of our acclimatisation and our whereabouts in BC and familiarisation with the Khumbu Icefall have had most focus. We take one day at the time.

"My home is my castle" as they say. At present it is my spacious tent in BC. Even the most unstructured climber should be able to organise his belongings. Most of us have left hectic days in offices 3-4 weeks ago. However, the transformation into our daily routines in BC, attending three meals per day plus afternoon tea, drinking coffee and tea, chatting and reading appears seamless. The reasons are several, but two deserve to be mentioned: First, the Guides and the climbers have established a very good basis for our living together for 2 months, based on mutual respect, trust and not least humour. Second, equally important is Gavin, our Australian Chef. In charge of three meals per day he never stops surprising us. He varies the menu and presents the food in a manner which makes me reluctant to elaborate further. Otherwise, my wife could question whether Jagged Globe served better meals in Everest BC than I have at home. Suffice to say that many of us has put on weight since we arrived in BC.

That being said, we have done our first climb, going through the Khumbu Icefall to Camp 1. I have read about it, heard about it, but did not believe it before I saw it. Huge and massive ice towers hovering above us, like walking in the streets of Manhattan. Broad and deep crevasses are crossed on crampons by use of 50cm wide aluminium ladders. However, both David and Matt are repeating our mantra, "security, security and security". Hence, although somewhat uncertain at the initial stage, we are now well prepared for our next tour through Icefall, commencing at 02:00 hours on 27 April.

Trond Eilertsen

Getting ready to head to Camp 209:30 GMT, 26/Apr/13

Today the team enjoyed a well earned rest day. This generally involves sleeping and eating lots of excellent food.

Our BC Chef, Gavin (pictured) prepared another great lunch:

Fresh grilled Norwegian Salmon (especially for Trond and Christian - our Norwegian team members!) Lentil and vegetable burgers. Platter of parma ham, salami, Danish Blue and Goats Cheese Olive, green bean, feta and lemon spaghetti Tomato Salad.

I weighed myself today and no, I have not yet lost any weight. Andrew and John displayed excellent washing skills.

As I type this blog the team are selecting their food for the next rotation on the mountain. It will be early to bed tonight as we start our second rotation on the mountain. Tomorrow we plan to leave early morning and head to Camp 1 where we will spend the night. The following evening we will move to Camp 2 for a few days.

Matt Parkes

Report on 1st Camp 1 rotation09:01 GMT, 25/Apr/13

The team set off at 2.00am on the morning of 24 April with the aim of getting to Camp 1 on the mountain. I am pleased to report that our little excursion was very successful. We are all now safely sat in Base Camp enjoying the sunshine. Here is our story:

The team assembled in the mess tent at 1:30am on 24 April and made their best attempts at trying to digest some breakfast before departing at 2:00am for the Icefall. The weather was good, clear and cool. We decided to make an early start to get ahead of any other teams, not to mention the many Sherpas moving loads up the Icefall. We set off on time and within 10 minutes the group arrived at crampon point, the location where we don our crampons and other necessary equipment for navigating the icy assault course ahead. The first part of the climb is very straightforward, crossing the easier part of the glacier. After about an hour you enter the Icefall proper, things begin to steepen and the fixed ropes start. With everyone looking forward to the challenge, we wasted no time in getting stuck in! Although the Icefall holds many risks, it is an amazing place to pass through. A maze of ice that is full of huge sculptures, that you weave your way in between. The journey is often exciting when climbing along ledges or over huge crevasses on ladders. Despite the obstacles and thanks to the great fixing skills of the Icefall doctors (the team that puts in the route), the team made great progress, taking only 5 - 5 1/2 hours to reach camp (this is a quick time for your first journey through).

Once in camp it was time to get things organised; water boiling, sleeping bags and mats laid out. Everyone took the opportunity to get warmed up, not to mention a well deserved second breakfast! The afternoon was spent trying to deal with the opposite end of the temperature spectrum as the sun heated the tents up to 30+ C. The tone for the afternoon was rest.

It was early to bed for everyone as alarms were set for 4:30am. We left the sun behind and awoke to ice on the ceiling of the tents. A quick cup of coffee and everyone was assembled outside the tents for a prompt 5:30 departure. We wasted no time as we knew Gavin our chef and BC manager would be up in a few hours, preparing a "full English" breakfast for our arrival. The team retraced their steps in the cool morining air, finally arriving in BC at 8:30. Gavin delivered as promised and as I write this everyone is relaxing in BC pleased with their efforts!

Matt Parkes

Team in Camp 111:51 GMT, 24/Apr/13

The team left base camp at 2am under a clear crisp night and made their way through the Icefall. They arrived at Camp 1 around breakfast time and will spend their first night away from base camp acclimatising before heading back down tomorrow morning, as long as the weather permits. Some of our Sherpa team also headed up to Camp 2 with loads to establish camps further up the mountain.

Gavin, Base Camp manager & Team Chef

Grounded in Base Camp08:08 GMT, 23/Apr/13

The team has been grounded in BC for a few days due to some unsettled weather, producing significant snowfall above Camp 1. Most people have been amusing themselves by doing washing, walking to Gorak Shep or watching movies on the BC cinema. Last night the weather finally broke and we were bathed in moonlight. After enjoying bangers 'n' mash with mint gravy, I took the opportunity to try to capture some images of our base camp set up at night. On a clear evening BC can offer some stunning views for those who venture out into the cold....

It's early to bed tonight as the team embarks on their first climb up to Camp 1 tomorrow to spend the night. We will be setting off at 2.00am for a 7-8 hour climb and load carry.

Matt Parkes

Snow in BC, sorting HA rations12:49 GMT, 21/Apr/13

Apologies - this blog was accidentally posted 3 times - Ed

Last night camp was hit by some heavy snow, so we had a last minute change of plan. Instead of our 3am departure up the icefall, we opted for a lie in and a cooked breakfast, much to everyone's delight! For the team most of the morning was spent enjoying the snowy scenes in BC (see picture). David and I took the opportunity to unpack all of the high altitude rations that myself and Kerry @ Jagged Globe HQ had purchased in the UK. After sorting all of the food we invited the team members to pack 2 days of rations for camp 1. Everyone was impressed by the variety and quantity of what we are able to provide as high altitude rations on Everest.

As I am writing this Gavin, our BC Chef and manager, is just delivering freshly baked scones from the kitchen. (pause for a moment.....)

Gavin's scones have quite a reputation here, and I can say its completely justified!

We are still experiencing some snowfall here in BC but we hope to make an early start up the icefall tomorrow morning. Our weather suggests that conditions will become more stable on the 24th, just in time for a visit to C1.

First trip into the Icefall06:46 GMT, 20/Apr/13

Today was the first of many early starts for the expedition team. We awoke at 03.30 and were walking out of Base Camp by 04.30. There had been a little overnight snow while we slept and there was a covering of a few cm on the ground when we left BC. The sky was clear and the temperatures did not seem very cold. 15 mins after leaving BC we stopped to put on crampons before entering the icefall proper. There were few other climbers on the move and we took the opportunity to move slowly and practice ropework and ladder crossing on the first part of the route to Camp 1. Dawn arrived a little after 05.00 and we were able to see the full expanse of Base Camp with the peak of Pumori towering above. As we pushed on the sky became more overcast and by 07.00 it was snowing quite heavily. This was our cue to turn around and return to BC. The plan had always been to make a short acclimatisation trip and the poor weather made us all the more eager to return to BC for a proper cooked breakfast. By 09.00 we were enjoying freshly made yogurt with fruit salad followed by eggs, toast, beans, fried potatoes and mushrooms. The snow continued for much of the morning giving camp a rather subdued appearence as most people chose to remain in their tents snoozing after the early start.

Weather permitting, tomorrow's plan is to venture higher into the icefall after another pre dawn start. But whatever happens we shall certainly be back in camp in time for breakfast...

David Hamilton

Skills training on the Khumbu Glacier13:58 GMT, 18/Apr/13

It has been a busy few days in the Jagged Globe camp. We have been organising camp in many ways from food to electrics. Yesterday we had our Puja ceremony. It was a great occasion enjoyed by all of the team members and Sherpas. The whole ceremony took about three hours and was conducted by a local Lama from Pangboche. Now we have the Puja out of the way it means that the team can set to work on the mountain. With this in mind the Sherpa team wasted no time in moving loads to Camp 2 early this morning. Meanwhile the team of climbers enjoyed a good English breakfast, followed by a skills training session on the mighty Khumbu Glacier. Tomorrow we have a second skills session. Matt, Pasang and a few of the Sherpas have an early start on the glacier to set up an obstacle course consisting of ropes and ladders. This will provide the team with essential training before tackling the icefall in a few days. Photos of tomorrows activites to follow!

Nacer

Acclimatisation at Pumori BC18:52 GMT, 16/Apr/13

We awoke this morning to the sun shining on the tents bringing the usual welcome warmth. Something we rely on to get everyone moving after a cold night. We experienced a turning point in the expedition today as we said fairwell to the trek team. At 8 o'clock this morning the whole group set off down the valley, leaving BC behind until the route split in two. Here we said our goodbyes to partners, family and friends. The trekkers then headed off down the valley and the climbing team walked up towards Pumori BC, to gain extra acclimatisation for the journey ahead. The trek team will be missed in BC, and we hope that they have a safe trip back down the valley and eventually back home.

The air in BC has now turned a little more serious as the team members begin to focus on the next stage of the expedition. This afternoon was spent going through equipment in preperation for the climb ahead. We have our Puja ceremony tomorrow and after that we turn our minds to the mountain.

Matt Parkes

Everest trekkers leaving base camp07:55 GMT, 16/Apr/13

The expedition members are getting settled into the Base Camp tents that will be their homes for the next six weeks. The members of the support trek who accompanied them to Base Camp are getting ready to leave for home in the morning. The power and electrics are all set up and Base Camp is almost fully functional. Gavin has taken charge of the kitchen and along with his three Nepali helpers is producing great food. The team have renamed the mess tent the "Gav' Inn" and word of his creations is already starting to spread among the BC community.

While the trek team are descending to Pheriche the climbers will begin their preparations for the climb ahead. In the morning they will make an acclimatisation hike to 5,600m on the lower slopes of Pumori, the peak that overlooks Base Camp. In the afternoon we will have a final equipment check for all the climbers before we venture into the icefall for the first time later in the week. The weather has been very stable since we arrived in BC and we are hoping that this continues in the weeks ahead. Cold and clear mornings are generally followed by cloudy afternoons, sometimes with a little light snowfall.

The Base Camp Puja is scheduled for the 17th, and the team will begin training in the Khumbu icefall on the 18th.

David Hamilton

Everest Team in Base Camp06:02 GMT, 15/Apr/13

Here is the news from the last few days:

Thursday 11th April
The teams awoke to find a few inches of new snow on the ground. The trek team were staying in Dingboche (4,410m) and made an early start to follow the 'standard' Everest trail to Lobuche (4,910m). After several days of acclimatisation in the area around Dingboche the whole team were in fine from and completed the trek in good style by mid afternoon. Meanwhile the climbing team who had been staying at Chukung 4730m made an even earlier start for the spectacular trek over the (5,535m) Kongma La Pass. There was a little snow on the upper sections of the trail, particularly on the East facing descent to Lobuche, which made ther going a little challenging. The team reached Lobuche at 15.10, 7 � hours after starting out. There was an emotional reunion between the trek team and the climbing team in Lobuche and everyone was pleased to be back together again. We were fortunate to get a 'private' wing of the lodge to ourselves along with our own dining room, as avoiding illness spread by other trekkers has been a theme of the past few days.

Friday 12th April
After two long days it was a nice change to have a short easy day. Once again the weather was perfect with clear morning skies and only a little cloud build up in the late afternoon. The climbing team (joined by a few the trek team) made short work of the hike to Gorak Shep (5,140m) and decided to ascend the viewpoint of Kala Patar before lunch. They polished off the round trip hike to the 5550m summit in less than 3 hours and this included a lengthy photostop on the top. This is the best viewpoint in the area to see Everest and the team were not disappointed as there was a great view up the Khumbu Icefall into the Western Cwm with the summit slopes of Everest towering above, The trek team took a more leisurely approach to the hike and arrived at Gorak Shep in time for an early lunch.

Saturday 13th April
The trek team remained in Gorak Shep for an extra day, making a morning ascent of Kala Patar. The expedition team completed the short walk to Base Camp (5,350m) in under two hours. We were greeted by the bulk of our sherpa crew who have been hard at work building the Base Camp facilities over the past three weeks. We have more than 30 tents standing in BC and each one required its own platform to be cut from the ice and built up with rocks. In addition to personal sleeping tents for members of the climbing team and sherpas we also have a large dining tent, team kitchen, sherpa kitchen, food store, equipment store, staff 'office' tent, client communications tent, showers, toilets etc. This makes us one of the largest and best equipped Base Camps on the South side of Everest this year.

The trek team will arrive in Base Camp tomorrow and spend two days with us before returning to Kathmandu. The climbers will take the next few days to get settled into Base Camp, befre they strat the serious work of preparing for the climb.

David Hamilton

Chukkung Ri (5,550m)12:40 GMT, 10/Apr/13

Currently the team is in Chukking, getting used to the thinner atmosphere in the hope this will guarantee that everyone arrives in Everest Base Camp fit and well. To aid acclimatisation even more, we took the team on a walk up Chukkung Ri (5,550m). This is the final peak on our 'Everest 3 Peaks 3 Passes' trek and the views from the top really are incredible. So far we have enjoyed great weather and clear mornings followed by cloudy but stable afternoons. When we awoke this morning the weather was on the change. With this in mind the group made an early start up Chukkung Ri. Following a large breakfast of porridge and chocolate pancakes everyone set off ready for the challenge ahead. Chukkung Ri is a great acclimatisation walk, not only because you can gain some height and make good use of the 'climb high, sleep low' tactic. But also because you are spoilt with fantastic views from all angles. As you climb up the mountain the view in front is dominated by the huge dark walls that form the south face of Nuptse. To your left you can see Taboche peak, Cholatse Peak and then Lobuche, a mountain that we climb on the popular 'Khumbu Climber' itinerary. The team were pleased to make the rocky summit of Chukkung Ri. Everyone was soon on the descent as the winds got a little stronger, again we were rewarded by yet another stunning view of the North Ridge of Ama Dablam. The team regrouped for a big lunch and an afternoon of relaxing.

We have an early start tomorrow as we plan to tackle the Khongma La pass and descend to Lobuche. Fingers crossed for the weather, stand by for more photos!

Matt Parkes

Acclimatisation at Chukkung16:34 GMT, 09/Apr/13

The team arrived at Chukkung today and spent the afternoon relaxing at our new altitude. The pictures attached are the view down the valley towards Dingboche and a shot of Ama Dablam at night. The views are spectacular.

Tomorrow we have an acclimatisation walk up Chukkung Ri.

Breaking the 5,000m contour09:14 GMT, 08/Apr/13

This morning it was time to stretch the legs and work the lungs as we walked to the top of the hill behind Dingboche called Nangkar Tshang. It was a brisk two hours of constant uphill which was rewarded by three hundred and sixty degree views of some of the world's highest mountains. At an elevation of 5,050 metres it's all part of the acclimatisation process. After a well rewarded visit to the bakery we attended a a very informative talk by the HRA (Himalayan Rescue Association) on altitude sickness.

Gavin Melgaard

Resting and acclimatising in Dingboche05:34 GMT, 08/Apr/13

Today was a designated rest day for the team. It started with a leisurely breakfast while basking in the sun and soaking up the stunning views of snow capped mountains. Some then opted for a wander up the nearby hill, a walk to the nearby village of Pheriche or exploring the delights of the local bakery. It's been a very quiet afternoon with people reading, catching up on their journals and the odd afternoon nap.

Resting in Dingboche05:19 GMT, 07/Apr/13

After a hearty breakfast of pancakes smothered in chocolate it was time to hit the trail and work of those extra calories. In the village of Pangboche we visited one of the most distinguished Lamas in the Everest region for his blessings, Lama Guieshe. As he recited ancient Buddhist prayers he flicked handfuls of rice towards us. One by one we approached as he wrapped the traditonal silk scarf around our necks and blessed each of us for the journey ahead. We have now arrived in Dingboche and are all looking forward to a rest day tomorrow.

Gavin Melgaard

Trekking to Deboche via Thyangboche11:53 GMT, 05/Apr/13

The team had a fantastic walk today. We set off from Namche and our plan was to make Deboche for lunch. There are a lot of steps in Namche, there are many more that you need to climb in order to gain the hillside and the path that carves its way through the mountains. The views are grand, in particular, Ama Dablam that dominates the skyline for most of the day. Walking was hot and dusty, so the team took the opportunity to stop for some well-earned tea breaks. We had to work for our lunch today as we tackled the biggest challenge of the day, a 2 hour walk up hill to reach the picturesque monastery at Thyangboche. We were not only rewarded with great views but also with the Bakery, offering a range of cakes in very large portions! After a huge lunch of fried noodles, cheese sandwiches and large cakes the team happily descended downhill to Deboche. This section of the walk is one of my favorites. You descend through densely-packed Rhodedendron forest until the valley opens up and the village appears in the base of the valley. We have the rest of the afternoon off to digest lunch!

Matt Parkes

Rest day in Namche12:13 GMT, 04/Apr/13

Today is a rest day spent relaxing in the trading town of Namche Bazaar. Settled at 3400m the town is an ever changing hub of mountain trade and tourist attraction. The team split up this morning and satisfied their needs by either resting at the lodge or enjoying a trek locally. Whilst some teams enjoyed a loop walk around some local farming villages one team made the long stepped approach to The Everest View hotel. It is situated about an hour's climb from our lodge and the view of Everest off the terrace gives a stunning glimpse of the challenge ahead. After an afternoon of relaxing, washing and packing the team are feeling good for their trek to Debuche tomorrow.

See more photos in the Everest 2013 gallery

Claire Bright, Everest Team Trekker

Team are in the Khumbu08:24 GMT, 02/Apr/13

Both the Everest climbing team and the base camp trekking team were given a traditional Puja ceremony to wish them a safe journey before leaving Kathmandu. The climbers have now flown to Lukla early this morning and are sitting back and enjoying a fresh cup of tea whilst waiting for the trekkers to arrive. Once we have collected our bags we will start the walk along the river and up through the valley. It's a very good feeling to have started and we are all looking forward to our first day on the trail.

Gavin Melgaard BC Manager/Chef

Sherpas and kitchen staff11:29 GMT, 25/Mar/13

In addition to David, Matt, Pasang and Gavin, the team will be supported by 11 Sherpas and 6 cook staff:

Sherpas

Pema Tharke Sherpa � Sirdar
Dawa Gyalje Sherpa - Climbing Sirdar
Thundu Sherpa
Tshering Pemba Sherpa
Kili Pemba Sherpa
Pema Chhiring Sherpa
Tashi Sherpa
Pemba Chhongwi Sherpa
Dawa Tashi Sherpa
Wangdi Sherpa
Karma Sherpa

Nepalese cook staff:

Dawa Sherpa � HA cook
Hem Bahadur Tamang � HA cook
Langima Sherpa � BC cook
Dhan Bahadur Rana Magar � BC cook
Pemba Chhiri Sherpa � Kitchen hand
Rinjing Sherpa � Kitchen hand

09:40 GMT, 08/Mar/13

The team arrives in Kathmandu on 31 March:

Expedition leader: David Hamilton
Assistant leader: Pasang Tenzing Sherpa IFMGA
Assistant leader: Matt Parkes
Chef and Base Camp Manager: Gavin Melgaard

Team members:

Dean C (Canada)
Christian E (Norway)
Trond E (Norway)
Daniel H (UK)
Nacer I (Morocco)
Guy Ma (UK)
Andrew M(UK)
John M (UK)
Guy Mu (UK)
James W (UK)

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Leader - David Hamilton

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About this expedition