Elbrus Expedition Dispatch
July 18, 2009 – Team Reaches Pashtukov Rocks, 4700 Meters
“It’s snowing”, Karina proclaimed with laughter and merriment in her voice as she called us today during the team’s descent from their current high point, Pashtukov Rocks at 15,400 feet or 4700 meters.
Richard had explained to us in a previous dispatch that he and Nicky really did not mind the rain, hail and snow that they have seen so far on this trip. Being from a very dry Gibraltar, all precipitation is novel to them.
From the sounds of it they were certainly not letting some clouds and snow dampen their fun today. “Richard is sliding down on his butt like a Penguin”, Karina said.
Look close! Richard is coming down the fast way!
We think they all must have been very wet by the time they got back to the dining room at the Barrels where Irina had hot soup and a meal prepared to warm them up.
Tomorrow, Sunday, will be a rest day and acclimatization day for Richard and Nicky. After pushing to higher elevations today, it will be important to let their bodies recoup and further adapt before they attempt to climb higher. Karina reported to us today that neither Nicky nor Richard had experienced any headaches. This is always a good indicator that one’s body is acclimatizing well.
We will wish for improving weather for our team as they take a day off. Stay tuned for more news from Mount Elbrus in coming days.
Vladimir, Richard and Nicky move up from the Barrels on a grey Saturday morning
At the high point on top of Pashtukov Rocks the Caucasus range was visible, but layers of clouds dominated the view
Karina, Richard and Nicky celebrate on top!
Back in a warm dining room Irina serves Vladimir, Richard and Nicky