Manaslu 2012 closure

Now home from the Manaslu expedition I have a chance to put a few words and pictures to the blog.
I'll keep it relatively straight forward and short as the trip ultimately had a poor outcome.

To be honest, once again the experience was great.  The culture of Nepal, the approach through the jungle, and the amazing views high on the worlds 8th highest peak. Until a quick turning point.

Despite everything going as well as possible personally (health, condition, motivation) and for our team, on 23-Sept-12 disaster struck the mountain.  An avalanche fell just before 5a.m. devastating everything in it's path.  Most unfortunately camp 3 which was heavily populated with persons.  We were resting at camp 2.  The most impact to us was heavy wind, some debris, and a concussion to one of team member.
That day several persons lost there life.  I can only wish the best to their families and loved ones they left behind.

http://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/climbing/mountaineering/11-Dead-or-Missing-Scores-Injured-in-Manaslu-Avalanche.html

Our team left the mountain.  This based on a mixture of the event, respect for those impacted, and the questionable mountain conditions up high.

A few teams have since summitted.  I congratulate them on their success. Parts of me wish I was there however that isn't overruled by how thankful I am to be here, safe at home, with those I love.

Thanks once again for everyone's support.
There are many projects still to come. For now I'm looking forward to a winter of ice climbing in Canada and my annual trip to South American in the spring.
sP
 

Shawn's Expedition cancelled and Final Entry

After all that has happened, the IMG team has decided to not continue the expedition. Shawn is very disappointed, but I'm glad that he's coming back home safe and sound. His tent was hit by snow/wind after all and as it bore down on Shawn's and his partner's tent, they pushed against the ceiling with their feet. I'm so proud of Shawn and all he's accomplished, I know God was protecting him and I can't wait to give him a big hug when I see him!!

His wife,

Miluska

Avalanche update!!!!

Kathmandu, Nepal (CNN) -- At least 11 climbers were killed in an avalanche Sunday morning on Manaslu, the world's eighth-highest peak, a pilot who took part in the rescue effort said.

Steve Bruce Bokan of Fishtail Air also said that those coordinating the rescue report as many as 38 people missing.

He said there were reports that an entire camp was swept away by the avalanche, which took place Sunday at about 5 a.m. local time.

Avalanche

There was an avalanche that killed 7 people in Manaslu today from camp 3, Shawn was in camp 2 and is ok, thank God. Sherpas from his team are aiding in the recovery effort of survivors.

Below picture of Shawn right before Avalanche.

Weather has finally cleared!!!

IMG leader Mike Hamill reported by sat phone that the team took a good hike today to get the cobwebs worked out from their storm days.  A number of teams did move up to Camp 1 today, and some sherpas from another team reached Camp 2 and report that the tents and gear up there are all OK.   Good news.  Now the weather is looking much better and the team members are doing well.  Their plan is to move up in the morning to Camp 1, then go to Camp 2 the following day, with the ultimate goal of this rotation to reach Camp 3. See Shawn below!!

Photos from snowed-in Base Camp

     

SHAWN HAS BEEN STUCK IN BC DUE TO WEATHER FOR THE 4TH DAY NOW, STILL ON TRACK THOUGH SINCE THEY GOT THERE EARLIER. ALL UP TO THE WEATHER!!

Weather has caused Shawn to be stuck at base camp

For 4 days now. They're still on track because they got there earlier. He's doing good, just a little bored. I miss him (hey, I'm blogging for him, so I can write this:)