Scott’s been to Everest in 2010, 2013, 2014, 2015 and now in 2017.  He’s seen his share of tragedy – the awful icefall collapse that killed 16 Sherpas in 2014 and the terrible earthquake in 2015.  After summiting for the first time in 2010, he came close in 2013 (giving up his bid to provide his client with extra oxygen) and now in 2017, he got to see the top of the planet again.

It was exactly a week ago – Saturday May 27 Nepal time that the Pender team stepped to the top.  It was a long trip – the weather was capricious this year and there were limited summit days.  May 27 was the final day of the brief Everest season.

Paul, Mike (guide), Scott and six Sherpas:   Sange Dorjee, Nima Nuru, Purba Choter (Ang Jangbu), Mingmar Tenji, Passang Wongchu and Pemba Chote, left Camp 4 at the South Col at 8pm on the 26th for an all-nighter to the top.  They made fairly good progress on a mostly quiet climbing day and arrived at the summit at dawn on the 27th.  Flurries of snow swirled – When I get the picture up, you’ll see that Scottie’s eye lashes look frosty.  It’s not cozy.

We were thrilled to hear they had finally made the top.  From there, Scott can come home.  It really feels like downhill.  No time was lost and Scott skipped home in 5 days.  They helicoptered to Kathmandu from Basecamp – hence the quick return. We are happy to have him back after two months and 4 days!