Entries from Expedition Dispatches

Denali Expedition: Van Deventer & Team Summit!

June 2, 2016

Posted by: Pete Van Deventer, Robby Young, Jess Matthews

Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mt. McKinley

Elevation: 20,310'

June 1, 2016 - 11:47 p.m. PDT Summit days don't get any better than what we had today. There wasn't a breath of wind, and the warm temperatures let us leave early and get out ahead of other teams. It was the warmest summit day any of the guides remember, and the team did spectacularly. Seven and a half hours of climbing had us standing on the summit taking photos, and then we boogied back to camp. It was well worth the wait and we certainly did our penance and deserved a day like today. With the summit achieved, everyone is more than ready to get back to town and home. We'll pack camp tomorrow and get down to warmer, thicker air, and with luck be at the airstrip first thing the day after tomorrow. But first we'll sleep tonight, and dream of the highest summit in North America. Best, RMI Guides Pete Van Deventer, Robby Young, Jess Matthews, and team

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Lisa - So proud of you! Simply incredible. What a stunning day on the summit, we can’t wait to see you back in NYC!!

Congratulations,
Your Robin Hood Team

Posted by: Megan on 6/4/2016 at 7:15 pm

Congratulations to all on the team, big accomplishment!

Posted by: David Clemmons on 6/3/2016 at 5:55 am

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Denali Expedition: Jones & Team Relocate to 14,200’

June 2, 2016

Posted by: Tyler Jones, Caleb Ladue, Blake Votilla

Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mt. McKinley

Elevation: 14,200'

June 1, 2016 - 10:36 p.m. PDT Today was one of the more work intensive days of the trip thus far. Up at 6:00 a.m., the same time as yesterday's move, we were tasked with a little more effort to break down camp and hit the trail. The slight overnight cloud deck a few thousand feet above us had kept some heat locked in and today's wake up did not feel nearly as chilled as yesterday with the clear sky. One of the days highlights was seeing the shadow of Denali painted on the thin cloud deck above us, the cloud was thin enough to let a bit of light through but just thick enough to keep the heat in. So cool. The unique lighting didn't end though, as we made our way up into the Polo Fields we chased the shadow all the way to our second break. Snowflake flurries continued as wispy clouds moved over the high ridge and the morning sunlight barely cresting over Denali made walking today especially enjoyable. Before we knew it we were at 14 Camp, making even better time than yesterday. Quite impressive considering it was our second big climb at altitude in a row! The real work just begins though as we still need to claim our homestead. A nice parcel with beachfront views of Hunter and Foraker will do! Tents stacked tight: 3 in a row, our cook tent, and finally guide tent at the edge of the hill. Plenty of old lots were available as most groups moved up yesterday to high camp. We chose to stake out our own - away from the crowds and with our own custom landscaping! We are settled in here at 14,200', looking forward to tomorrow's rest day and we'll see what opportunities the weather brings us. Stay tuned! RMI Guide Blake Votilla and team

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High places are only for those brave enough to follow their dreams! You guys will never be the same walking this close to the heavens. We hope the wind stands still and the snow is light on your summit day. Looking forward to a safe return and some well deserved beach time in the OBX! We can tell from the blog and pictures that achieving your goal is close. Be safe and stay focused.
Carter and Kay Adams

Posted by: Carter Adams on 6/2/2016 at 4:27 pm

haha very good question—has the chocolate supply run out?

Posted by: karina on 6/2/2016 at 1:30 pm

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Denali - West Buttress Expedition: Beren and Team Arrive in Talkeetna

June 1, 2016

Posted by: Jake Beren, JM Gorum, Katrina Bloemsma

Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mt. McKinley

June 1, 2016 - 9:20 am PDT Time for this year's pilgrimage to the Great One! Our team is assembled and we are about to hit the orientation from the Park Service before diving into the hangar to rig our equipment for the upcoming adventure! RMI Guide Jake Beren & Team

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Prayers continue to be with you on your adventure and we are excited to be a part of it even if it is through cheering and watching your progress through the safety of our computer screen…lol. Many hugs and cheers to you Jason!!!!

Posted by: The Broek Gang Sandon and Sharlet and Kids on 6/7/2016 at 4:29 pm

Just thinking of you Daddy. Hope all is well. Everybody asks about you. We continue to pray for a safe climb. Love you! Have fun! Mamma

Posted by: Isty and kids on 6/4/2016 at 9:18 pm

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Denali Expedition: Okita & Team Rest and Introduce the Team

June 1, 2016

Posted by: Brent Okita, Christina Dale, Chris Ebeling

Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mt. McKinley

Elevation: 14,200'

May 31, 2016 - 10:03 pm PT Finally, a day of rest. Smoked salmon, toasted bagels and cream cheese served at the civilized hour of 10:00 set the tone for the day. Our communal get together then lasted to noon. What we all talk of who knows, but obviously we enjoy each others company. Speaking of which, I thought I might share a small glimpse of who this team is that you're following. I'll start with the lady from NYC. A social live wire who keeps things fun in the Posh and can climb with the best. Of the three doctors in the group, the one from the east coast is not the talkative center of the group, but is so fun to get to know and importantly, never complains, even of our cooking. The other doc is our elder statesman, older than even me! (OK, by just a year) But with this wisdom comes a love and appreciation of everything and everyone around him. The third doc is a stud! But his strength is so overshadowed by his generosity and true commitment to the welfare of the group. We even have two paramedics on board. The first calls Boston home, where he only works four jobs to support his climbing habit. His good heartlessness is reflected in the smile he wears no matter how difficult the going is. The other medic defines strength. Even after breaking his leg in January, he gets the hard man award. Combined with just being a really nice guy, we're lucky to have him on the team. Another incredible member was an air force meteorologist who became a physical therapist. Her strength and will power is obvious any time you pick up her pack. Plus she can run a five minute mile. Amazing person! Another teammate was here two years ago where weather conspired to thwart his summit bid, but has come back determined and firing on all cylinders. Always good natured, especially when there's rice one the menu, he is a pleasure to climb with. Of the guides, our first year assistant is proving his mettal and performing really well in the harsh environment of the Alaska range. Interestingly, all the of us are ski patrollers in the winter. My first assistant is all one could ask for in a guide up here. Strong, fun, hard working and smart. And a bright spot in the Posh House. Then there's me, trying to manage as best as I can and get this old body up the hill one more time. So that's it, the team in a nutshell. I trust you'll recognize your friends, family, loved ones. It's a special group and I'm excited to be climbing with them. RMI Guide Brent Okita

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That Air Force Girl is Tough!! I know you already know that. Keep climbing Strong Dawn!

Posted by: Dave Kestel on 6/2/2016 at 3:22 am

We are all watching your progress, great job, great team. FYI Dr P. It is going to be 110 to 113 here in the desert this weekend….

Posted by: Saguaro Surgical on 6/1/2016 at 9:16 pm

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Denali Expedition: Van Deventer & Team Waiting for the Winds

May 31, 2016

Posted by: Pete Van Deventer, Robby Young, Jess Matthews

Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mt. McKinley

Elevation: 17,000'

May 31, 2016 - 8:15 pm PT Today turned out to be the perfect day to take a rest day at 17 in preparation for our summit attempt. Sometimes the forecast is correct, and sometimes not. Sometimes it's wrong in a helpful direction (like yesterday) and sometimes not (today). Winds were cranking out of the East this morning over the summit, and gusting through Denali Pass as well. Clearly not a summit day, we rested in tents and recovered from yesterday's big loads and tough camp building effort. Luckily, we were pretty protected from those East winds, so we had a relatively warm calm day. A field trip to the vista that overlooks 14 let us stretch our legs and get some frame worthy shots. Things look promising for tomorrow, so we're going hit the sack early and be ready for the morning. We'll be dreaming of summits. Best, RMI Guides Pete, Jess, Robby, and team

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Thinking of my nephew Michael Adams and his team of adventure seekers. You are all being prayed for each day - for a wonderful and safe journey. Each day is new…make it great!

Posted by: Aunt Susan (Susan Lawrence) on 6/2/2016 at 7:03 am

Lisa -
Summiting Denali is upon you.
Your opted in for another breathtaking chapter to the story of YOU.
“One does not climb to attain enlightenment, rather one climbs because he is enlightened” - zen master futomaki

❤️ Pamela

Posted by: Pamela on 6/1/2016 at 2:31 pm

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Denali Expedition: Jones & Team Prepare for Move to 14,000’ Camp

May 31, 2016

Posted by: Tyler Jones, Blake Votilla, Caleb Ladue

Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mt. McKinley

Elevation: 11,200'

May 31, 2016 - 5:52 pm PT Were back from our biggest day so far on this expedition. The train is very much on the track as we moved efficiently with perfect weather. The cold, crisp, and breathless air provided a flawless day. Not to mention the the rockstar crew we are climbing with - smooth operators. The route conditions from 11,200 - 14,200 ft camp are groomer. The views of the surrounding ridges, peaks, glaciers and distant rivers are proof we came to one of the most inspiring corners of the world. Now that we're back to camp, we will spend the afternoon chilling with our groceries and hydrating in hopes the splendid weather will continue. Tomorrow we look to move up to 14,200 ft camp and will keep you all in the loop as to our progress. Cheers, RMI Guide Tyler Jones

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Safe travels everyone! It looks so beautiful! Love to Michael and the rest of the team!

Love,
Anne Tyler

Posted by: Anne Tyler Adams on 6/2/2016 at 9:57 am

Thinking of my nephew Michael Adams and his team of adventure seekers. You are all being prayed for each day - for a wonderful and safe journey. Each day is new…make it great!

Posted by: Aunt Susan (Susan Lawrence) on 6/2/2016 at 7:06 am

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Denali Expedition: Van Deventer & Team Move to 17,200’ Camp

May 31, 2016

Posted by: Pete Van Deventer, Robby Young, Jess Matthews

Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mt. McKinley

Elevation: 17,200'

May 31, 2016 - 1:17 am PT It's finally happening! Light snow fell overnight and the morning skies were blue, without anything moving up high. We packed up our camp, left a cache of extras, and went for round two on the fixed lines. With sunny skies and calm winds, we got the experience the air under our feet that comes with climbing the West Buttress. Exhilarating! 6.5 hours of climbing brought us to 17,200' where we had to build camp in the thin air. With tents up and walls built, we're tucking in for the night with the hope of going to the summit of Denali tomorrow. Best, RMI Guides Pete, Robby, Jess, and team

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Godspeed

Posted by: Walter Glover on 6/1/2016 at 5:29 am

Denali winds, please REST!!
So exciting! Be careful team, patience has served you well.

Posted by: Greg Hurley on 6/1/2016 at 2:59 am

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Denali Expedition: Okita & Team Carry to 16,800 and above

May 31, 2016

Posted by: Brent Okita, Christina Dale, Chris Ebeling

Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mt. McKinley

Elevation: 14,000'

May 31, 2016 - 12:03 am PT Our day was a resounding success! A cold, early start had us ahead of the madding crowds as everyone was determined to take advantage of some perfect weather. It had snowed 6-8" overnight, and ours were the first tracks up the pristine slopes leading to the fixed lines and the start of the West Buttress. By far the steepest climbing we've encountered, the Buttress is also the steepest, most dramatic climbing most of our group has ever done. The team performed well, with us getting a cache at 16,800' and another one at high camp at 17,200'. Everyone is pumped by the day and really looking forward to our first rest day. It's getting late and cold, so adieu from 14,200'. RMI Guides Brent, Christina, Chris and the team

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I look forward to this email every day!!! I am with you in spirit! Climb Strong Dawn!!! :)

Posted by: Dave on 6/1/2016 at 4:12 am

Nice work, Mike P!! It’s great to track your progress. Short hop to 17 and you’re almost there. Wishing you some clear weather. Hang tough, buddy! Frank M

Posted by: Frank Marini on 5/31/2016 at 1:14 pm

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Denali Expedition: Jones & Team Rest at 11,200’ Camp

May 31, 2016

Posted by: Tyler Jones, Blake Votilla, Caleb Ladue

Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mt. McKinley

Elevation: 11,200'

May 30, 2016 - 7:39 pm PT With just a day of active rest scheduled, the team was able to sleep in. Most all of us slept like rocks, with a pitter patter of fresh snow making the perfect background noise. Once we finally rolled out of bed, a lazy breakfast of bacon, cheese and hash-brown wraps with a half bagel on the side and a hot drink or two got us ready for our back carry. The whole group was excited to be reunited with our buried goods; as many of us were craving some snack hidden in the snow. 11 Camp remains a weather quandary with reports of clear skies at both fourteen and Base Camps. Yet the fresh six inches of snow is welcome as it has brought our camp back to its pristine status. For now we'll continue to chill and listen to the snow fall! RMI Guide Tyler Jones

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wow so much snow! Ongun I’m sending you my warmest hug!! I hope you can rest well and take care of yourself to reboot for more trekking. Miss you so much and hope you are having an amazing adventure!
xoxo
Karina

Posted by: karina on 5/31/2016 at 10:06 am

Hi Schlax,

I’m bragging to everyone I meet about your expedition. Be #fearless, #strong, and #raw because people are following along. No pressure.

As you know, you’re missing many important newsfeeds. Here’s a quick summary:

Your last post has over 40 likes (not bad) and some witty comments. Beach volleyball season started, and at least 20 people’s Memorial Day weekend involved boats (that sounds low?). Curry v Cavs has inspired poetry. Training and attendance continues for marathons, triathlons, weddings. Surprisingly low on selfies & baby pics.

Finally, you’ve missed 753 Inspirational Quotes. Some good ones:
“No matter where you are in your journey, you’re exactly where you need to be.” - Oprah
“Believe you can and you’re halfway there.” - T. Roosevelt

#LTD
Mary

Posted by: Mary on 5/31/2016 at 9:49 am

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Denali Expedition: Okita & Team Back Carry to 13,500’

May 30, 2016

Posted by: Brent Okita, Christina Dale, Chris Ebeling

Categories: Expedition Dispatches Mt. McKinley

Elevation: 14,200'

May 29, 2016 - 11:50 p.m. PDT Awakening to wind buffeting the tents and spindrift everywhere kept us hunkered down in our bags later than usual this morning. When we finally ventured out at least the sun was out in all it's glory, which sure made up for the gusts and blowing snow. A quick breakfast of Pop Tarts and we all rallied from the tents to cut blocks for the wall around our Posh tent that we just didn't have time to build yesterday. Kind of reminiscent of our morning a few days ago at 11,200'. The team rocked the work we had to do to allow us to get our cool tent fully functioning, A second breakfast of grits and hot drinks fortified us to do our short back carry to pick up our cache at 13,500'. And now we're set. We have a carry up to 16,200' or higher planned for tomorrow, but if the weather doesn't let us we'll certainly enjoy a rest day. The weather forecasts look good for later this week. We'll keep our fingers crossed. Ciao from 14,200'. RMI Guides Brent Okita,Christina Dale, Chris Ebeling and an incredible team of climbers

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Be safe Michael! Amazing climb! We are thinking about you!

Love, Lesleigh, Lyndon, William, Lucy and Grace

Posted by: Lesleigh box on 5/31/2016 at 5:26 am

I swear to God, Paul, that I begin hyperventilating with every update! So incredibly excited for you! What an amazing journey! Be safe! We leave on the 11th for our Mt. Whitney climb.

Posted by: Virginia on 5/30/2016 at 8:07 pm

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Entries from Expedition Dispatches

Denali Expedition: Van Deventer & Team Summit!

On The Map

Denali Expedition: Jones & Team Relocate to 14,200’

On The Map

Denali - West Buttress Expedition: Beren and Team Arrive in Talkeetna

Denali Expedition: Okita & Team Rest and Introduce the Team

On The Map

Denali Expedition: Van Deventer & Team Waiting for the Winds

On The Map

Denali Expedition: Jones & Team Prepare for Move to 14,000’ Camp

On The Map

Denali Expedition: Van Deventer & Team Move to 17,200’ Camp

On The Map

Denali Expedition: Okita & Team Carry to 16,800 and above

On The Map

Denali Expedition: Jones & Team Rest at 11,200’ Camp

On The Map

Denali Expedition: Okita & Team Back Carry to 13,500’

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