June 6, 2019
Well, Andy Polloczek and Team 2 gave it one ‘heck’ of an effort. Team was turned around yesterday but didn’t bail. They hung in at 17K and took another shot today. Mother nature said an emphatic NO. Increasing wind, precipitation and thunder. Decision was an easy one. Team made quick work of getting to Denali Pass but that was it. You have to be VERY careful about climbing up into a storm. Totally correct call.
Austin and Team 3 are trying to get to 17K today. This is a big push. It’ll be nice to have Team 2 at high camp and ready to offer a hot drink.
Regardless, all is well, albeit without a summit. That said, lots of ways to measure success. 10 fingers and 10 toes probably counts for something.
Phil Ershler