This is it! The Everest Expedition Begins…
Date: 02/04/2009
This week is a landmark for Dromara couple Lynne and Noel Hanna as their expedition to Everest begins in earnest.
The final week before heading off has been frantic, checking that all arrangements are in place for this gruelling challenge.
Packing for going on holiday is bad enough but can you imagine heading off for two months where you will face extreme weather conditions and a hazardous climb to reach the summit of the world’s highest mountain?
Noel said, “We have tested all our clothing and equipment before setting off. We have packed lots of warm clothing to deal with the changes in temperature – in our experience down usually works best. We’ve packed 10 tops each which can be layered for additional warmth; leggings which will be worn as underwear as well as windproof and waterproof bottoms. Local producer Bridgedale socks are amongst the best we have worn for previous Everest attempts.”
Despite keeping their clothing to a minimum and collecting their tents in Kathmandu, they fear that they will be bringing 40-50 kilos each in luggage – double the weight limit!
Lynne said, “One of the biggest luxuries we have packed for the trip is chocolate. Although we could buy this on arrival, the chocolate just doesn’t taste the same! It’s great for energy when we need an extra boost on the mountain and its a little taste of home! Another prized item is tuna in foil packs. It’s very light to carry up the mountain and it’s also a great source of protein. It’s important that we keep a healthy diet during the expedition. A head cold or flu could set us back for days or in the worst case scenario, end our summit attempt.”
On Tuesday 31st March Lynne and Noel flew from Belfast to Heathrow where they changed flights for Bahrain. Here they had a short stopover and a chance to stretch their legs before their flight to Kathmandu. After nearly a day of travelling, they’ve now arrived in Nepal. Their destination in Kathmandu is the Yak and Yeti Hotel where they will be based for a couple of days. Here they meet their Tour Manager, collect all the necessary visas and permits and pick up the rest of their gear.
Noel added, “We are prepared physically and mentally and now we just want to get onto the mountain and start the climb.”
