Sunday, February 27, 2011

Ecuador High Altitude Expedition #6: Dispatch Cotopaxi Successful

Ecuador High Altitude Expedition

February 18 to March 4, 2011
Climbers: Sam Kisson, Robert Gay, Tom O’Connell, Dennis Uhlir, Matt Donnelly
Lead Guide: Benno Schlauri
Assistant Guide: Ramiro Garrido

February 27, 2011

Benno called at 11:26 am Ecuador and US Eastern time with this message:

"Hello.  This is Benno and the team calling from down below Cotopaxi.  We had a good descent from the summit.  We were tired, but everyone did a careful and skillful job on the way down.  We got to the hut and had a little rest and some things to eat and of course more to drink.  Before, during, and after the climb, everyone has been doing an excellent job of staying hydrated, and that really helps us deal successfully with the altitude.

After being at the Jose Ribas hut for awhile, we packed up and made the short hike down to our vehicle and then drove to Hosteria Cuello de Luna where we are now.  It's a very beautiful here, a very comfortable place.  Perfect for relaxing after all the effort of the big climb.
We all took lots of photos, and we look forward to sharing them.  It was a good day for photography.  

This was an important climb for us.  Now it is clear that every one is ready to make an attempt on the big one, Chimborazo.  It will be a great climb, and everyone is very pleased now, knowing that their heads and bodies are totally ready for it!
Tomorrow we will drive south to the old railway station on the flanks of Chimborazo that has been changed into a lodge, Estacion Urbina.  That's pretty high, so it will be a good place to sleep before moving to the hut on Chimborazo the next morning.  We'll try giving you an update tomorrow.  There won't be any big news of course, but if we can connect, we'll give you an update.  And on Monday we'll be speaking with AAI office staff and getting any messages you have put on the blog, so that will be fun for everyone.

Thanks for keeping track of us.  Everyone on the team sends a very warm "hello" and "we miss you" to family and friends back home.

Ciao, ciao from Ecuador."




2 comments:

Bob Gay said...

Bob and Group, mom and I were happy to read about your successful climb of Cotopaxi! Especally happy to see that no smoke was coming from the volcano! It is good to hear that everyone made the climb and everyone is strong and adjusted to the altitude. Best of luck on your next mountain Chimborazo, we will be following you closely again! Love, mom and dad

Unknown said...

Hey Bob-
the pictures that you guys post look AMAZING!! I can't wait to see the pictures from "the big climb" to come! remember, do not eat the yellow snow!
love, reene