Oct 02, 2023: Yesterday, a substantial Chinese expedition on Cho Oyu has successfully merged the worlds of climbing and scientific research. The team, consisting of 18 members, seized a precious window of opportunity provided by a day of clear skies to install a state-of-the-art, solar-powered automated weather station at the summit. This cutting-edge station is expected to operate flawlessly for the next two years, providing valuable meteorological data from the lofty peak.
While conquering Cho Oyu, the climbers also undertook a vital scientific mission. They skillfully drilled ice cores and collected snow samples from various elevations. These samples will be meticulously analyzed to gain insights into climate change and the alarming phenomenon of glacier melting. This ambitious expedition embodies the fusion of adventure and science, contributing significantly to our understanding of the challenges faced by our planet.
Similarly,a 32-year-old female climber hailing from Rolwaling Valley has triumphantly conquered Cho Oyu, making her the first Nepali woman to scale most of the 8,000-meter peaks. Dawa Yangzum Sherpa, renowned as the first Asian woman with IFMGA/UIAGM mountain guide credentials, reached the summit of Cho Oyu yesterday morning, marking her 13th ascent above 8,000 meters.
Dawa Yangzum Sherpa has her sights set on an even more ambitious goal, aiming to become the first Nepali woman to conquer all 14 peaks in this category. Earlier this year, she displayed her prowess by scaling three peaks in Pakistan within a mere 16 days, which included G1 on July 21, G2 on July 17, and Nanga Parbat on July 5, achieving her 12th 8,000-meter summit.
Simultaneously, two American female climbers have also achieved a remarkable feat by conquering Mt. Cho Oyu from the Tibetan side, securing their 13th ascent above 8,000 meters. Their aim is to become the first American women to complete all 14 peaks surpassing the 8,000-meter mark, an endeavor that adds a fascinating chapter to the world of high-altitude mountaineering.
This morning, Anna Gutu achieved an impressive feat by reaching the summit of Cho Oyu. Just one day earlier, Gina Marie Han-Lee had also successfully scaled the mountain. Both these determined women are currently engaged in a remarkable race to become the first American women to conquer all 14 peaks soaring above 8,000 meters. This exciting pursuit has been confirmed by base camp officials, marking an inspiring chapter in the world of high-altitude mountaineering.
Till date, only two American climbers – Christopher Bernard Warner and Ed Viesturs – climbed all 14 peaks till date.
Among other climbers, Dawa Yangzum, Anna and Gina will head for Shishapangma to complete all 14 peaks by next week
Sirbaz Khan and Naila Kiani, summited in a single push. Both Pakistani climbers reached Advanced Base Camp at 5,700m on Saturday.
