Mencin

Lhotse Face [click to zoom] (photo: Corfield)

Saturday, May 2
Today was possibly the most important day of the expedition. Two of our Sherpas, Ang Pasang and Dorge, along with two Sherpas from the Ester-C team fixed ropes from the Yellow Band to the South Col. Our Sherpa team was so confident in their success that eight Sherpas followed the same day with loads, firmly establishing Camp IV at the South Col. This essentially fixes the entire route to summit day.

Greg and Eric have descended from a night at Camp III and will spend the night at Camp II. Charles and Wally will sleep at Camp III tonight. The Sherpas plan a second carry from Camp II to the Col tomorrow.

Camp II, 21,000' [click to zoom] (photo: Corfield)

Sunday, May 3
Strong winds prevented the Sherpa carry to the South Col today. They will attempt tomorrow. Along with wind, base camp received heavy precipitation today.

Eric and Greg have returned to base camp, Charles has moved to Camp III, Wally remains at Camp III, and I am again at base camp and am now in good health!

Monday, May 4
The climbers are down from their acclimatization run to Camp III and will now rest up for a summit attempt when weather permits.

— David Mencin, Expedition Scientist

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