The DNA group continues to be strong on Aconcagua, reaching Camp 1/Canada in approximately 3.5 hours today. This is an amazing time, equal to the time it took them to make the acclimatization hike to Camp 1 on the 13th; and today they had full packs with all of their personal gear including sleep bag, pads, and clothes (including heavy down summit jackets). This is one strong and determined group! While they are focused on their goal, they also know how to have a good time, laugh, and not take themselves too seriously. Everyone has been working together, sharing food, electrolytes, support, and kindness.
We have a good group of good people.
Marshall reported that the weather was excellent for their climb today. Clear with very little wind. He said that Theresa had a bit of an “off” day with some intestinal issues and that Gary kind of “cycled” a bit today with some stomach problems. But both of them kept up with the rest of the group and are recovering well in camp this evening. Although we had snow here in
base camp the other night (which melted today), Marshall reported that there is no snow on the ground at Camp 1.
Tonight will be the group’s first night to *not* have a dinning tent, complete with table and chairs. Instead, the guides will cook for them and, depending on weather, they will either eat in their tents or as a group outside, seated on the ground. Certainly this is not a challenge for this strong group!
Marshall said this evening that everyone is fantastic and happy to have the first step in the summit push completed. Tomorrow the plan is to leave Camp 1 at 11 a.m. to head up to Camp 2/Nido. They should arrive in Nido at approximately 4 p.m. tomorrow.
Sometime tomorrow, although I’m not sure when, the porters will carry down written, personal messages from the climbers for you at home. Once I get the messages from the porters I will post them here. Do be aware that my radio call with Marshall is scheduled for 8 p.m. tomorrow so the live update will not be posted until later but… stay tuned!
The weather forecast looks good for the DNA group to continue their summit push. As of today, weather (in particular wind) looks okay for a possible summit attempt on the 18th. Of course, one never knows for sure, but here’s hoping!
THANKS again for following along and supporting the DNA group on Aconcagua!
Wow Marsh! You all are amazing! Reid and I will keep you guys on our prayer list!!! =) Enjoy your quest…
Go Team!!!!
Thinking about you all
Lisa
Rick – now is time to summons your keen focus which I have always know you for – now through the summit.
Gary and Bruce – It sounds like you guys are getting the job done even without my leadership. Good stuff. Sorry about the tummy Shafe, trust that is all behind you (so to speak) by the time you read this. I am both impressed and alarmed that you appear to be carrying all your own gear this time, given your tradition of passing all the heavy stuff to Moses when the air gets thin. We are all pulling for you! Onward and upward. Best from Mark of the Equator
Heather and Marshall-Thank you for the wonderful job that you are doing in keeping us here at home tuned in to your adventure.It means a lot.It sounds as though you have a great group of people and I'm certain that they appreciate you as well.
Gary and Theresa, I hope that your systems adjust.I have had the same issues and I know how miserable it is and energy sapping. It sounds as though you are doing a good job anyway.
Mike,I got your Spot and am greatful for it.I know then that you have arrived safely.Keep up the good work, keep your head,stay focused (as you are good at) and know that you are loved.Be safe, and remember how capable you are.
We are missing you here at home, but proud for your energy and effort. Love, Bob, Matt and Wiff
Strong work, Rick! Keep the energy level high! Can't wait to see the photos! Jimmy & Lisa
Mick and All….
Keep up the good work. Stay safe and warm! I'll be thinking about you all on the 18th…What an adventure!
Heather and Marshall — Thanks for the awesome updates! Keep up the great work everyone! In the words of Jim's profound and articulate mentor Bela Karolyi (ok, maybe not)… "Focus, you can do it!" On to Camp 2! Love, Lecia
Rick,
Keep it up! We know you can do it! Tell Mike we expect him to keep up with you! :o)
Spent the evening with the Hansen children so Paulette could get to a movie. Here is the 'thank you note' Corinne wrote us:
"To: login and brais we had a fun time with you we hop we have a fun time with you nxt time Evan & Corinne"
(isn't that too cute?)
Can't wait to hear all about your summit experience!
Love you,
Cat
Mike,
Great news on your treck to camp 1! So glad to hear it. The 3-D movie, Avatar, is fascinating!! An incredible adventure story, as you will also have to share. Mom says it's a study of the strenght of the human spirit, just like your expedition on Aconcagua.
The kids are great. We are marking the time until you return to us.
Much Love,
Paulette
Corinne says, "Hi daddy, we really miss you."
Evan says, "Daddy, I hope you liked our note we put in your pack. We got new pet mice." (legos thankfully.)