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Ski mountaineer to attempt the impossible
One of the world's leading high-altitude skiers Fredrik Ericsson is on a quest to become the first person to ski down the three highest peaks on the planet - K2, Kangchenjunga and Everest.
Sound impossible? With summit descents from some of the highest mountains, including Peak Somoni, Shisha Pangma and Gasherbrum 2, Ericsson feels he is ready for the challenge.
"I have already skied on five mountains higher than 8,000 meters [26,246 feet]. During these adventures I gained critical experience that will apply towards my goal of skiing the absolute highest," Ericsson said in a press release.
"The project spans two years and I will try to ski the three highest mountains in the world: K2 this summer, Mt. Everest in Autumn, 2010, and Kangchenjunga in Autumn, 2011."
The Los Angeles Times reports that although several ski mountaineers have tried, no one has ever made a complete ski descent from the 28,251-foot summit of K2, the Savage Mountain.
Earlier this week the team, which includes alpine journalist Trey Cook, reached K2 base camp, minus much of their equipment, including food, fuel and medical supplies.
En route to K2, Ericsson warmed up on a 3,280-foot vertical descent on Laila’s pristine, 45-degree northwest face.
The Sweden-born Ericsson and his team will undertake several climbs to acclimate themselves and prepare for the upcoming challenge to the summit, in mid July or early August. Ericsson and Cook plan to climb the south-southeast ridge.
"We will not use supplemental oxygen or high-altitude porters," said Ericsson. And he will be carrying his ski equipment in addition to the gear that other climbers usually carry. "Plus I'll be wearing my ski touring boots, which are not nearly as warm, comfortable or functional as climbing boots -- this makes the climb much more challenging, but also more rewarding."
