Not a bad day up high in the Himalaya, not bad at all. Summit stories aside for a minute, let’s first address the most pressing bit of news… regarding CTSS climber Bruce…

Bruce, I am told, had never had a cup of coffee in his life. Yes, that’s right, never in his life had coffee passed his lips… until today at 17,600ft. His innocence lost to a frothy cup of perfectly brewed Himalayan Java beans (naturally) Who could resist with barista Mike on the tools!? (I can personally attest that he does make a strong brew! I’m a tea girl myself – Earl Grey all the way, anyway I digress) I’m told the result was wild smiles and some jitters. I wonder how many hot laps of camp he made? Any guesses? Maybe it will be the secret sauce that propels him to the summit?!

Sarcasm aside, we had a stunning day today. Speed Ascent Climber Ed stood on top of Lobuche with Tendi today and took some stunning pics (below) As Tendi said; he may have climbed the peak 26x but the view never gets old.

Speaking of views, some of the team enjoyed a chilled hike about Base Camp and up to Pumori Camp 1 today and were well rewarded with some spectacular vistas of Everest. The mighty Himalaya are certainly something to behold.

Private Team Mark and Big Tendi had a gentle foray up the Lhotse face a little way to acclimatize and get a feel, and are now back at Camp 2 for the night.

Our Western/International Guided and Personal Sherpa climbers descended are all safely resting and recuperating in the Big House, (and probably enjoying hot showers and the opportunity to do a little laundry.)

On the business end, there was a rope fixing meeting today and plenty of planning for the weeks that lie ahead. With the first rotations complete, the next step is to do a second rotation and spend 5-6 days on the mountain which will have the climbers well positioned for their summit bids.

Cheers
Caroline