Community Corner

Wash U Grad Nears Final Assault On Mt. Everest

Joe Ashkar was able to overcome a brief illness which forced him to backtrack on his climbing trek.

Patch heard Sunday from Joe Ashkar, the Washington University graduate and Creve Coeur resident who is on his way to scaling the world's highest peaks in a single calendar year. He's getting ready for a critical push that could have him heading for the summit of Mt. Everest on May 18.

I'm personally very conflicted about leaving this early morning. First: I just got back to Base Camp from the low altitude and could definitely use a day of rest and re-acclimatizing to the altitude. Second: there are a few conflicting weather reports. High winds dominate but small windows exist for summit chances. We are taking a chance on a small weather window and may have to wait out extra days at altitude where our bodies are taking a beating and dying. In fact, I just got word a few minutes ago that IMG canceled their climb to Camp 2 tonight and are taking a wait and see approach. Himex and Mountain Trip are also waiting things out in BC. I wonder if we're doing this to avoid the crowd.

Ashkar, who has provided regular progress reports on his website, said Sunday's update would likely be the last before his team reaches the summit.

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For more stories about Ashkar's journey, read:

  • Washington University Alum Prepares To Climb Mt. Everest
  • Climber Back On Track After Falling Ill At Mount Everest

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