Hoping to beat both the conditions and the approaching equinox, Alex Txikon has started a desperate last push up K2. Nepali climbers Cheppal, Walung, Geljen and Cheppal are marching with him towards Camp 1, while Felix Criado and Ignacio de Zuloaga aimed for Advanced Base Camp today.
The fifth Sherpa climber, Nuri, was forced to abandon the expedition due to minor frostbite and is already on the trek back home. All Polish team members eventually called the expedition off as well, due to health issues.
Alex Txikon’s progress through glacial terrain on his way up K2 yesterday.
“The moment has come and we’re ready,” confirmed Txikon, who describes this winter attempt as the most special of his 30 expeditions. “The atmosphere of this mountain will never cease to surprise me. Here, we have grown as alpinists and human beings,” he said.
While the ascent strategy has not been revealed, the Spanish mountaineer clearly stated his priorities. “We’ll do our best, but will keep a cool head about our ultimate goal: a safe return to Base Camp.”
Related story:
Txikon’s Last Chance for Winter K2
