To the Top of the world25.5.2010 17:57:25

In the evening of May 17th we heard that Carina Räihä had reached the summit of Mt Everst. Motivated by her example we woke up early in the morning of 18th. The morning routines we know by heart now and we perofmed those quickly. We headed out with a head-mounted lamp showing us the way.We reached C1 in approx. four hours.Timo decided to camp there for a while. Mika took a rest for the hottest time and decided to continue to C2 in the afternoon. When the clouds rose to cover the sun, Mika climbed to C2. Timo instead arrived to C2 in the 19th. ...

Tears of Joy - 8850m24.5.2010 14:20:35

We will write a more detailed story on how we reached the summit in a few days. We arrived today safely in the base camp, even though it snowed the whole day and the ropes were frozen slippery. This made descending the Lhotse wall a very challenging effort. At the summit the scenery and the environment was pretty much what whe had expected. I have to admit that we did cry a few tears of joy when we reached the top of the world. We spent almost two hours at the summit since the wheather was (by local standards) very good. ...

Finnish Rock and Roll17.5.2010 13:48:03

We have many times commented that food can be prepared without adding spinach and garlic everywhere, as the Nepalean kitchen usually cook their food. To emphasize this, we decided to prepare a dinner for the whole camp yesterday. The “operation” gathered interest from the cooks of the nearby camps as well as the National Geographic. The raw materials were not perfect to start with, but our “sous-chef” was surprised to see all the plates empty very quickly. The Finnish cuisine did appeal well event to the international standards present here.   Our menu The Starter: Champignon soup, hard rye bread and eggbutter (Karelian spread made of butter and hard boiled eggs) The main course: Mashed potatoes, brown chicken sausage sauce, smoothened with ketchup The Dessert: Warm pineapple rings   The most important thing is that the wait is over. We will start our ascent tomorrow at 03:00 to try our guts. According to today’s information, we will try to reach the summit on 22nd of May. We plan to leave camp 4 the previous evening at 21:00. You can follow the climb via our Facebook-site. ...

The pain of finishing a project16.5.2010 16:49:55

According to a very recent weather forecast the wind velocity will decrease around 22nd or 23rd of May and the summit window is opening. The window – based on today’s knowledge – may be open for a while, maybe as long as 30th of May. Our forecasts that we have gathered from different sources agree on the change of the wind velocity around the peak. Wrong decisions can be costly here, since we will have energy to do just one push to the summit, whether we make it to the top or not. We will of course base our assumptions on the fact that we will make it. This is the moment when we must dare to complete the climbing phase. There may not be a single correct decision, we must adjust with the weather around us. As you know, time slows to a crawl when you wait for something to happen! A reporter from the National Geographic asked us a question:” What things do mountain climbing and business have in common?”. ...

First Summit15.5.2010 16:01:29

    First  Summit 5650m No News from the hills of Himalaya. To celebrate the Friday, we decided to flex our limbs that were numb from all of the rest that we’ve gotten. So we did a little trek for a day. We decided to trek to the Gorak Shep mountain village, that lies at about 1,5 hours walking distance from the Base Camp. Mikko from Lhotse-Everest group joined us, while Tomi and Joni selected to go to Kala Pattar. Moving after a five-day break felt really good and the trek was a very relaxed one. In Gorak Shep we planned to use the Internet café’s services to do some internet banking and to manage some insurance services. Not excluding, of course, the updates in Facebook and in this blog. The bandwith in the Internet Café is much better suited for moving larger chunks of data than the limited satellite connection we use in the Base Camp. You could have read the disappointment from our faces when the lady at the Café told us: “Internet closed”. ...

Gear - there's a lot!14.5.2010 15:25:16

To pass the time, we decided to write a list of all the gear that we've required during the expedition. For those of our readers, who are planning similar trips yourselves, this can serve as a reference. Some parts of the gear listed here is personal and some of them can be rented at will. This listing will also give quite a good overview of all the stuff that one needs to conquer the top of the world. The whole nine yards weighs about 100 kg. Oxygen bottles as well as all the foodstuff are missing from the list here. If you want to ask anything about either the gear or about the trip, you can reach us via  info@ascensio.fi or from our Facebook-site. ...

Forecasts of forecasts12.5.2010 12:32:00

We woke up before 6 am to the sound of a helicopter. It tried to get higher (without any success) from the base camp in order to pick up a dead Russian climber from camp 2. Wind is very strong and seems to continue for some days. We anticipate that suitable weather for summit push could be around 23 May, but forecasts change almost on daily basis.   Today early in the morning Sherpas were detaching bodies of some unfortunate climbers from the glacier and moving them to some place more appropriate. These climbers had tried summiting Everst quite a long time ago and bodies had moved along the glacier about 1 km / 4 yrs downwards   There is a charity poker game at the camp today. Only Everest summiters are allowed to participate.   Waiting, waiting, waiting. ...

Preliminary decisions12.5.2010 7:38:13

We get weather forecasts daily from Seattle. Some expeditions have ordered weather updates from a Swiss meteorology and in addition to these, there are some sources that are examined regularly. We get a good overview to forthcoming weather, by combining different weather forecasts. Now we have made preliminary decisions; we are heading up on 14th May and hope to go for summit push couple of days later, 17-18 May. Temperature is about -36 degrees, but the wind is forecasted to be less than 10m/s. If the weather remains as forecasted, our chance for summit push is here soon. Everything is ready!   Nice news from media side. National Geographic has been interviewing and following us and the documentary will be shown also in Finland. ...

Happy Mothers Day8.5.2010 19:59:16

Step is light and scenery changes, making climbers feel rested. Boys have left mothers’ hems, heading to high peaks of Everest. Although we are here far away, mother is in our thoughts anyway. & ...

Yak meat and other things of current interest7.5.2010 14:07:26

Here we are in Periche, resting and filling our energy reserves. Fried yak meat and onions with local version of mashed potatoes was delicious and creates certain familiar feeling to this environment. Meal times determine rest day schedules and there no other compulsory things to do. We were thinking whether we leave for Dingbotche for a nice cup of coffee and buns or stay here and enjoy a 100% rest day and yak snacks instead of ½ hour walk. Both very tempting options.   Kathmandu has been restless with Maoists marching on the streets and organizing a 6-day strike. There has been some shooting when local police has tried to calm the situation down, but the good news is that there has been no victims.   We have a plenty of time here which often gives the imagination wings. As a result of Iceland’s volcano eruptions, and inspired by aviation blocking volcanic ash, we planned alternative route B in order to get back home, in case air spaces are shut at the time of our return.   Plan B: Nepal still produces good old Royal Enfields (even in British race car green, wow! ...

Resting in Periche - 4200m6.5.2010 16:01:25

We took a 6-hour hike downhill when we descended to Periche for a rest. At the supper one could hear ‘Finlandia’ been sung very loud. It was a sign that the majority of Finns at the Everest region had gathered together for the evening. We were caught in a conversation until very early hours in the night, although the restaurant was supposed to be open only until 9 pm.   Climbers come, climbers go and there are plenty of thing to watch at.  ...

Third rotation 4.5.2010 16:41:32

We stuck our heads out of the tent on 30th April at 3.30 am and took off an hour later. First hundreds of vertical meters felt very strenuous before muscles warmed. We ascended to camp 1 in four hours and continued immediately to camp 2, which took another 3 hours. Altitude difference between camp 1 and 2 is about 400m. The temperature felt like being above 25 degrees, which made us to hike slowly.   We intend to rest one day in camp 2 and head to camp 3 on 2st May early in the morning. Even resting in upper camps is more challenging that at lower altitudes. Some have a habit of staring the ceiling of the tent, others read and some keep busy with some kind of chores. Sometimes it feels that getting out of the tent is an accomplishment. ...

Killing time28.4.2010 8:34:25

The older one gets the harder it seems to be to adjust to changes. Comfortable bed and thick pillow is a thin memory as well as peaceful nightly rest. Last night was the first time during this journey when I was able to sleep peacefully and almost without waking up. This is a good basis for the next acclimatization ascend. Our goal is to ascend to camp 3 (about 7300m) and possibly even higher if possible. According to our plan we have extra oxygen to our disposal from C3 onwards, but it would be interesting to try ascending without any extra oxygen. Depending on the weather we plan to descend back on the 2nd of May. Killing time between rotations is always not easy and being able to speak mother tongue makes it easier. It does not matter how well English is spoken; I consider the possibility to discuss in Finnish with Timo and other Finns important. Being totally cut off busy everyday life and being in totally different environment where social network has to be built from scratch is surprisingly challenging. ...

From sick bed to the first rotation - 6752m27.4.2010 17:17:53

I had a cough, which was caused by inflammation, but now that situation has stabilized it was time to head towards camp 1. After forcing the breakfast down we took off towards the icefalls. Some 20 minutes later I had an odd feeling that made me wonder if I had all the necessities. I went through the list of necessities in my mind and uttered some not so nice words when I noticed that I had forgotten sunglasses. I went through the contents of my rucksack which confirmed my forgetfulness and meant hike back to Base camp.  Short extra hike washed remaining feelings of sleepiness away and journey through the icefall went smoothly.   I stopped at a secure place for a cup of tea and weetabix, which have proved to be the safest source of energy from what is available for us. I felt good and soon after 9 am I was in C1 melting snow. Time went annoyingly slowly and for a moment we were thinking about continuing to C2. We naturally decided to stick to the agreed plan and continue journey with Mika, who was resting in BC and due to arrive C1 the following day. ...

Camp 1 ready - 6150 m22.4.2010 10:13:26

Mika took off on the 20th April to higher altitudes with some other Asia Trekking’s climbers and Timo stayed in BC to recover from cough. Mika was accompanied by two Sherpas and a 16-year old Indian boy Arjun, who aims to be the youngest Indian ever summited Everest and third youngest ever.   We departed at 5 am and the climb proceeded along an icefall, which has three parts; beginning, Popcorn and blue ice. Popcorn means that part where ice blocks are popcorn-shape like (diameter 1-5 m) and which can be rather unstable, because lower parts are usually only tens of centimeters wide and therefore poorly attached to the glacier. The sun reaches these parts of the glacier at 10.30 and after that the risk of collapse grows. On the other hand there is always a risk. Right on the popcorn, we heard sound of collapse and avalanche. There was no danger for us, but the sound made us to focus 100 % on getting forward. We reached the top of the icefall at 8. ...

Mountain puja on Khumbu glacier19.4.2010 15:35:25

We got our last blessing on Khumbu glacier. Puja was slightly different from previous ones and nature added its own effects to the event; a serac on a nearby mountain wall came grumbling down making impressive sound. It was very impressive. The puja itself proceeded familiar pattern, but with additional festivity like dancing, refreshments and most of all, happy spirits. The end of the puja was more social, a mix of several languages buzzing over the glacier. Other Finns, Tomi, Mikko and Joni, attended puja and after that we exchanged experiences.   Soon our attention was caught by a mix-breed dog, which ran towards the base camp followed by its owner. My understanding did not quite comprehend how the dog had made its way over all crevasses. It felt also improbable that the owner would have carried sizeable dog at 5 400 m.   Apa Sherpa was there and nice coincidence was that our partner Suunto is also Apa Sherpa’s partner. ...

Acclimatisation at 5600 m and 5800 m19.4.2010 9:51:45

At the breakfast Mika had a cup of coffee and Timo chose something else, which was very wise. At 5 am we were on our way along the Kumbu icefall. The morning was magical; the sun rose at 5 am and it highlighted glacier’s deep blue colors. Our goal was to ascend and start return at 10 am at the latest. Climbing the icefall made us think about our camp’s location on the glacier. Several times in the night we hear glaciers movements as sharp snaps. The icefall is literally in continuous movement.   Ascend was accompanied with heavy breathing and scruntching sounds of crampons. Getting used to half of sea level’s oxygen pressure takes time, but this a good start. Seracs got bigger and we did not feel taking it too slow, but tried to thread between them and keep up comfortable pace. ...

Base camp 5 360 m18.4.2010 8:59:46

We arrived to base camp on the 15th April in the evening. During that day we have been thinking about the basic meaning of this journey and purpose of subjectively set objectives. When departing Lobutche in the morning, I felt weakening impact of both fever and thin air. A headache added to the experience and during the trek I had plenty of time to think how it might feel if after 3 yrs training I could not reach base camp for example due to altitude sickness.   Lama Geshi emphasized in his prayer the meaning of wisdom and how there always is the stronger and wiser person. It is worth while listening to wisdom. I also remembered my father’s words “the track will be beautiful when skiing slowly” and this goes also for trekking. The objective of this journey is daring when thinking about our background. Training has required commitment, which will be measured in physical and mental strength. Reaching high altitudes is not one-time achievement, but outcome of many long-term factors. ...

Snow16.4.2010 17:23:37

Last couple of days have been dusty. Sand dust particles are very small and if there is any wind, the dust goes to ears, eyes and nose. I presume that this does not necessarily make ascending to higher altitudes easier.  Someone might have heard my thoughts, because when I opened my eyes in the morning, the ground was covered in white and there was no dust! Snowfall had cleared the air. The sun was extremely bright, reflecting from the snow to such an extent that I had to put on already level 4 sunglasses and despite of the protection I had to squint.   We ascended in a calm pace from 4 400 m to Thukla at 4 600 m. From there we had a pleasant ascend to  5 000 m, where we were greeted by a stunning scenery towards Tibetian plateau, Pumor, Nuptse and several other mountains.   When we arrived to Lobutche (4 950 m) and had a nap right after checking in. This is the last stop before the base camp and also the last night in a guest house. ...

Dingpoche – 4410m13.4.2010 8:53:47

Last light was very windy and it made buildings’ loose parts to rumble is such a way that I hoped that I would have slept in a tent. Later in the night the wind calmed down and at the breakfast we got beautiful views to Mt. Everest and Lhotse. This is a remarkable day; sherpas and trekkers go to get a blessing before continuing to the mountain. We were given a blessing by “High Lama” Geshe who lives in Pangpoche village at 4000 m. The ceremony was very impressing and each one of us got a blessing. Lama Geshe is highly educated Buddhist, an elderly gentleman. The reason we went to see this particular Lama is that he is specialized in blessing expeditions. All Sherpas, who have gotten blessing from the Lama, have survived the mountain. In addition to blessing, the Lama gives instructions. ...

Tengboche 3847m10.4.2010 20:00:06

I woke up almost soaking at 6.30 am and wondered what is going on. It took a while to understand that fever I got last night had gone and I had sweated a lot. The fever might have been body’s natural response to stomach flu I had gotten earlier. I thought about resting for one day to get rid of the flu, but finally I decided to continue with others but listen to my body and rest whenever necessary.   efore departure we took an admiring look at a 7-ton garbage pile which was behind the guest house. What’s in garbage to admire? Perhaps not in the garbage itself, but the work 2 previous EcoEverest expeditions’ Sherpas have done when bringing such a great amount of garbage back from the mountains. Garbage is mostly from camps 1 and 2. It cannot be said that Sherpas would do this because of earnings, compensation is 100 rupees/kg (1euro = ca. ...

Acclimatisation continues – 3850m9.4.2010 17:47:39

We left Apa Sherpa’s Guest House at 9 am, but Apa had it very busy and barely got going. Everyone in the village wanted to wish good luck and wishes were accompanied with different kind of rites. Apa’s brother, monk Dhawa gave us Buddhist blessing and we were given also silk scarves, which is a Khumbu way to say goodbye.   We walked along the same valley as yesterday. Timo was about 50 m behind Mika, who managed to scare some kind of mountain goat. The goat sprang across the path, just front of Timo, who was at least as startled as the goat. It was a pity that I did not have my camera ready, Timo’s expression and moves were something to remember. We arrived in Khumjung right after noon.   Our purpose was to remain at the same altitude, at 3800 m. We haven’t had symptoms of altitude sickness. ...

Apa Sherpa's home - 3800m9.4.2010 17:28:20

When thinking about this day it seems that nothing significant happened, but when thinking again:   We departed quite late at 10 am, because today’s trek was not that long. We ascended to the top of Namche Bazar’s neigbouring top, from where we had a great view to the village and nearby mountains. I was pondering about dimensions and thought that summits rising over 6 000 m seemed very respectable, but some one commented them to be “small mountains”. We continued through a bushy valley edge towards Thamo, where we had lunch.   Lunch conversations covered varied topics from world issues to Finland’s history, Arctic Circle and of course the Santa Claus. Tiny Finland’s worldwide known brands, like Suunto and Nokia, rose interest and amazement. One interesting topic was innovative energy production possibilities for villages like Thamo. MIT (Massachusetts Institute of Technology) is developing technique that transforms water into energy by separating water molecules. The device would also purify water by using solar power. These type of solutions would solve world’s future energy crisis, or cause other problems. ...

Towards Namche Bazaar8.4.2010 10:06:49

It might have been a snow leopard that made guest house’s dogs bark like crazy very early in the morning, or that’s what we would like to imagine. We tried to get some more sleep for a while without much success. First symptoms of stomach problems occurred in the night and this time Mika was the first to get sick. After morning chores, tee and pancakes we continued to the halfway of today’s trek to Tawa where we had tasty pasta lunch.   Journey continued in comfortable +25 degrees warmth. Soil was very dry and we were surrounded by a dust cloud which felt deep in our lungs despite wearing a scarf to block most of the dust. There were also forest fires, which generated a lot of smoke and reduced air quality even more. At 3 pm we felt that good that we would have passed today’s guest house in Namche Bazaar unless Dawa Steven Sherpa hadn’t directed us to the right place. Shower, laundry and a nap and it is time for supper.   Namche is literally means trade center of Sherpas. ...

Our first day towards Mt. Everest8.4.2010 9:53:48

We woke up before alarm clock, right after 5 am and after packing we were ready to go about one hour later. After two days in Kathmandu we felt impatient and were anxious to get going towards our goal. Along the journey the mix of several languages was accompanied by growling sounds of our bus.   At the airport everything happened in a brisk Nepalese way and baggage piles were divided into two categories: those which are sent directly to the base camp and those that are needed during approaching the BC. This is Apa Sherpa’s 20th Mt. Everest climb and understandably the happening attracted quite a lot media to the spot.   As we watched loading the plane we estimated that baggage will take all the space in the plane and that there will be another for passengers, but this was not case. After baggage was loaded, we boarded and were given cotton and candy to make the short journey more comfy. The flight took about ½ hour and flight altitude was above fog cloud so that we were able to admire beautiful mountain range. We had heard expectations raising stories about landing at Lukla airport . ...

Let the adventure begin4.4.2010 17:38:20

On Friday, the 2nd of April, we hoped that the luggage scale at Rovaniemi airport would show some reasonable numbers, but that was not the case. Timo and I had to pay quite a lot for overweight to get all our gear onboard. At our arrival in Kathmandu it was nice to see the sun shining and above all, warming after long and cold winter in Finland. Everything went smoothly and soon we were on our way through Kathmandu where seeing and smelling the open crematorium and graveyard caught our attention again. What a different world. In Kathmandu we met Elizabeth Hawley, a history researcher who keeps up a database of all expeditions on Himalaya. In the evening we headed to Thamel area and eneded up having supper in legendary Run Doodle restaurant. Today we met Dawa Steven Sherpa and Apa Sherpa who holds the world record of reaching Everest summit 19 times. This is Apa’s 20th climb and understandably it raises a lot of interest. In the meeting we got more detailed information on practical arrangements and climbing to the base camp. ...

Powder in the north27.3.2010 10:22:13

Last weekend we headed to Lyngen, Northern Norway to test gear for the last time before our Everest expedition. One week before the trip we were not sure whether to go or not. Lyngen’s snow situation has been rather unstable with big avalanches recently and we did not want to take any unnecessary risks. We red forums on local snow situation in relaa.com and checked weather forecasts. On Monday Henttonen wrote on the forum that in Lyngen there is “super snow, and surprisingly rather stable” and that was it. On Thursday evening spirit was high as car was packed with snowboards, skis, backpacks, tents and all kinds of gadgets. After one night in Kilpisjärvi we took off towards Lakselvbukt while the sun was rising. Edges of the road indicated at times that the snow cover of the Lyngen peninsula was somewhat thinner than last year this time, but there anyhow there was plenty of snow. We ascended to the familiar rock about 300 m from the car and after setting up the camp and noodle lunch we enjoyed the most beautiful spring day by continuing towards the slopes of Holmbuktinden. ...

Green(ish?)11.3.2010 14:09:51

Environmental issues, like climate change, pollutions and other related subjects are on the table all the time, like it should be. One question to ask is that are people becoming bored and saturated with all the green talk? Hopefully not.   Ignoring environmental impact of one’s own actions is irresponsible, whether at home or while travelling. Responsible traveler estimates his/her trip’s environmental impacts in advance and aims at minimizing any harm for example by using ecological transportations options.   Ascensio has tried to act environmentally responsible while planning and executing the trip. Our gear suppliers work constantly on diminishing their production’s carbon footprint. While in Nepal in addition to our own waste we gather and bring down from the mountain waste left there by previous trekkers. All electronic components and stoves using solar panels. Furthermore, we are looking for a Nepalese environment conservation project which we could assist financially. ...

Lappish hour8.3.2010 20:17:00

Last weekend was an excellent example of so called Lappish hour. Here one hour is not always exactly 60 minutes, but something between 60 and 90 minutes. It is possible to reach many interesting Lappish resorts from Rovaniemi within that time span, whether you are looking for trekking or adventure. We drove from Rovaniemi to Posio’s Korouoma on Saturday and descended 125 vertical meters to the canyon. There are two very inspiring ice falls in Korouoma, of which the other is a fall that requires leading. That fall has several routes of various difficulty up to level 5. A little bit further away is the Mammoth Fall, where setting upa top rope enables ice climbing without any previous leading experience. Mammoth Fall’s routes are shorter, but there are some challenging ones. On Sunday morning we headed to Pyhätunturi and took one lift ride to the top of the fell.  We skied to the edge of Isokuru (‘Big Couloir’) and down to the couloir. ...

Testing, choices, pondering and practicing15.2.2010 20:40:38

Year 2010 begun with testing gears and training in cold temperatures. Arctic nature has shown its best with long cold period, temperatures varying from -20 to even -35 according to Suunto X10. Testing has taken place mostly in Ylläs fells and Rovaniemi surroundings, both offer versatile circumstances for testing.  We have been mostly skiing when testing the gear, which can be seen from our track diary. We have been able to train as planned and achieved targets we set us. One important part of preparations is reading up on literature and researches on functioning at high altitudes and comparing research results to our physical performance. Mostly theoretical reading, but very interesting, see for example  Karinen, Tikkanan and Mustonen’s article on oxygen uptake http://www.lts.fi/filearc/193_s113-117_Karinen.pdf. ...

Back to Pokhara and time to summarize3.10.2009 15:02:41

We rested at Annapurna base camp for a few hours and after having lunch we headed towards Nayapyul. Mika has been on a diet for five days, because of stomach problems. Even though it was bittersweet to take the last look at Tent Peak, we are convinced that decision not to ascend any further yesterday was right. It would have been too risky, because of possible landslides. Despite of physical stress of last days, we descended fast, passed Machu Puchare base camp in 40 minutes and we arrived at Bamboo around 5 pm. We spent evening with familiar routines and fell asleep at 9 pm. In the morning we woke up at 6 am and took off after one hour morning chores. We traipsed fast to the path which leads to Chamrong and climbed 400 vertical meters in burning heat. After lunch we continued steep descend and ran across to a local home appliance delivery, which gave some perspective to climbing overall. In the afternoon we followed spectacular river Modi Khola and got shade from trees in the river valley. ...

Worst headache ever 1.10.2009 12:28:58

I feel yesterday’s 800 vertical meters when our alarm clock wakes us up at 5.30 am. I have the worst banging headache ever and pulse is over 70 instead of normal 40+. Despite of short 3-hour sleep and tearing headache I manage to remember that our tent lies on a few square meter cliff, which is surrounded by steep 10-meter drops. Yesterday we continued ascending from the base camp. Our original dream was to summit Tent Peak, but due to foggy circumstances we decided to ascend to Annapurna South Glacier instead. After breakfast bars and some water we headed forward with a goal to reach 5 000 m. We reached glacier at 4 651 m after a lot of zigzagging and effort, but felt immediately a little bit moody after noticing that we do not have enough time to search for safe route forward. Therefore, this was the furthest we were able to go this time. Even though we did not reach our target, we are rather happy with this training. ...

ABC – 4130m 30.9.2009 11:11:13 30.9.2009 11:11:13

Finally the satelite found us again! As being originally Ostrobothnian* I have to say that there are some big hills over here! In the morning we ascended forward from Machu Puchare Camp to Annapurna bace camp (4 130 m). Movements get slower even at this altitude, but we are satisfied with how everything is progressing. We will continue towards Tent Peak if we stay fit enough to ascend without any medication. The weather is moderate at the moment. Mika Pitkämäki *Ostrobothnia: part of western Finland, terrain very flat, highest point 231 m. ...

Head in the clouds30.9.2009 11:09:21

Two stomachs, one throat and a knee are not doing so well at the moment. After some pills, our group is on the path again. Mornings are crisp and normally we would wear something warmer than a t-shirt and shorts, but we rely on the warmth of the rising sun. In addition, today’s ascend seems steep enough to keep good sweat on. At the lunch time we heard really sad news from a Sherpa we met. Two Koreans were caught by a avalanche during their ascend towards Himchuli (6 441m) couple days ago and they have not been found. The group is staying in their camp next to ABC and continuing search, but possibilities to find the climbers are particularly non-existent. There has been avalanches on the mountains near ABC every day now. The weather changed dramatically at 3500 m while we were reaching the clouds. The temperature dropped nearly 10 degrees and fog and breeze added the feeling of cool. ...

Life is all about choices 27.9.2009 19:56:10

-25 degrees, strong northern wind and perhaps blizzard or relaxed one and a half our full service lunch break in comfortable temperature in a casino? Circumstances vary a lot when we start ascend to one of the world’s highest mountains. These choices are nothing compared to those we will meet later along our trip and those we will encounter next year while trying to achieve our ultimate goal. While packing lots of layers and ice gear it is hard to imagine that our journey toward towards on the highest mountains starts from such a comfy circumstances. But so it is. The sun is sinking and coloring nearby summits in red, but the scenery will soon be covered with dark clouds, thunder and heavy rain. This is a perfect example of rapidly changing weather that I have only heard of. In my thoughts I am already living the next day. ...

Pokhara26.9.2009 21:26:24

We have left the burning sun and smog of Katmandu behind us and are heading towards the mountains. The number one festival of the year, Dashain, mixes up our schedule. People are celebrating or hope to be celebrating. Dashain equals Christmas in Christian cultures. After intense negotiation with airport security personnel about bringing poles to the flight and 1 ½ hours delay we took off. We were warmly welcomed to the flight. Landing at recently paved runway and +29 fresh mountain air lifted our spirit. Shangri La Hotel’s pool and chilled Everest beer made our day. After gear update at Lakeside trekking shop we enjoyed dinner with our local friends Ailsa and Ganga. We are giving in the sandman now and looking forward to starting our ascend to Annapurna. ...

Katmandu26.9.2009 9:02:13

Before we headed to Katmandu I read an article called ‘Mystic Katmandu’. After our arrival I immediately saw and felt why the article was named as it was. We arrived at Katmandu after a night in a plane and stayed in a cozy hotel in Lazinbat area, which is located near the buzz of Thamel. We had a quick tour to Katmandu’s center while the evening sun was casting its magical light to nearby mountains. We popped in to some stores which were filled with mountaineering and climbing gear. The city felt even more mystical when the night got darker and headed to Durbar Square temple plaza. Check out the recently opened Nepal photo gallery. ...

Gears, apparels, clothes in one bunch. 17.9.2009 12:09:01

I was a bit smiling while watching bunch of gears at my home. During last month we agreed team co-operation with essential partners like Vaude, Edelrid, Scarpa, Suunto, Mund, Komperdell. Next actual activity is to go to Nepal and negotiate all services needed in next spring. After that we will fly to Pokhara and trek (or almost run) to basecamp of Annapurna (4130m). If the weather allows, the team will try to reach the Tent peak (5615m) during one night. Time window is very short and we won’t have time to wait if the weather is bad. Without decent (Long enough) acclimation, the ascent will be quite rough. The team will attend to Ski Expo and have few lesions during weekend 30.10-1.11. ...

Some more training: rafting, running and adventure13.7.2009 18:58:26

The world championships rafting team took part also to the national rafting championships in early June. We defended our last year's win and succeeded. During midsummer festival Mika took part to the Finland's most chanllenging half marathon in Ylläs sport resort. The route ascended 178 m, which had to be run twice. Mika's time was 1.40:00, which is ok considering the tough route. Mika took part to the Arctic Circle 24 extreme competition on 10 - 11th July (www.arcticcircle24.com). You can check the route and each team's performance and progression on the map at GPS Follow up . ...