Tuesday, May 18, 2010

Denali Team 1 - Dispatch #13

Denali Team 1: May 2-22, 2010

Guides: Forest McBrian and Mike Pond

Climbers: Rob Gribbin, Deke Williams, Jens Rabbels, Krushnaa Patil, Chris Shumate

Tuesday, May 18 - 4:55 pm PST

AAI Guide Mike Pond called in with this dispatch:

Hey guys! Just hanging out at high camp right now. It looks like there are some pretty darn high winds up top. We had some high winds overnight and in the morning, but around 11 O’clock this morning they died down and we were able to move around without worrying our booties would freeze off. We had a long day coming in yesterday and got in late in the evening, but everybody pulled their weight. We even took the time build a solid camp which is so useful at these high camps which can see such strong weather.

Everyone is in really great health, no one has had any problems. Last night there were some cold toes and fingers, but that is to be expected at –20 degrees and strong winds. We are on the total freeze dried high camp diet, but no one is complaining. We’ve been able to hang out with another party who is up at high camp right now and make some friends which is always nice.

Potentially we will be shooting for the summit tomorrow. We are going to watch the weather report tonight and see what it is like tomorrow, however we are cautious to get our hopes it. Regardless, the next three or four days are looking good and I’m sure we will find a summit window open up for us.

Unfortunately our poetic inspiration has blown away with the winds, but please do tell my mom and dad I say hi again!

Mike out.

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