Two Britons conquer north face of Chang Himal
As yet unverified, but a text message sent by satellite 'phone told fellow team members that British alpinists Nick Bullock and Andy Houseman had successfully made the first ascent of the north face of Chang Himal (aka the Wedge Peak) at 6750m and returned to basecamp at 5140m.
Andy and Nick, who regard Chamonix as their second homes having spent winter seasons climbing in the valley, set off on the five week expedition with high hopes of conquering the 1500 metre high north face that had, until now deluded alpinists. An attempt was made in 2007 by a group of Slovenian climbers, but the expedition was aborted about half way up due to poor weather conditions.
Writing on his blog before leaving, Nick said the expedition to summit Chang Himal's north face would be 'a dream come true' as it is one of the most striking unconquered peaks in the world.
A full team, including Tom Biggs, Graham Desroy and Mandi Shipton, accompanied Nick and Andy to basecamp before leaving the two alpinists to continue their world-first climb.
Source : alpinist.com
Photo : L Griffin
