News
Kristin Harila Reaches Halfway Point In Just Over a Month
In a remarkable display of endurance and determination, adventurer and mountaineer Kristin Harila and Lama (Tenjen Sherpa) have achieved an extraordinary feat by summiting seven of the world’s fourteen highest mountains in a span of just over a month. This remarkable accomplishment not only showcases their exceptional physical and mental strength but also places them among an elite group of mountaineers who have climbed many if not all of the world’s mountains above 8000m. Kristin and Lama’s extraordinary journey serves as an inspiration to aspiring adventurers worldwide, encouraging them to pursue their dreams and embrace the beauty of the natural world.
A Record-Breaking Quest
Kristin Harila embarked on her audacious quest to climb the world’s most formidable peaks by summiting Shishapangma on April 26th, accompanied by Lama from Seven Summit Treks. Over the course of an astounding one month and three days, she then successfully reached the summits of Cho Oyu, Makalu, Kangchenjunga. Mount Everest, Lhotse and Dhaulagiri. This remarkable achievement not only showcases her exceptional mountaineering skills but also highlights her unwavering commitment to pushing boundaries and defying limitations.
Kristin’s dates and approximate summit times for the mountains so far:
- Shishapangma – 8,027m – April 26th, 05:00PM
- Cho Oyu – 8,188m – May 3rd, 02:45PM
- Makalu – 8,485m – May 13th, 08:35AM
- Kangchenjunga – 8,586m – May 18th, 12:45AM
- Mount Everest – 8,848m – May 23rd, 03:15AM
- Lhotse – 8,516m – May 23rd, 11:15AM
- Dhaulagiri – 8,167m – May 29th, 06:15AM
Now, Kristin has seven more mountains to go: K2, Manaslu, Nanga Parbat, Annapurna I, Gasherbrum I, Broad Peak and Gasherbrum II.
A Strong Team
One of the key components of a successful expedition to the world’s highest peaks is the invaluable contribution of Sherpas. These highly skilled and experienced mountaineers from the Sherpa community in Nepal play a crucial role in supporting climbers like Kristin in their quest to summit 8000m mountains.
Sherpas are known for their exceptional mountaineering skills, deep knowledge of the mountains, and ability to navigate treacherous terrains. They possess an innate understanding of the local conditions, weather patterns, and the risks associated with high-altitude climbing. Their expertise in setting up ropes, fixing routes, and establishing high camps is essential for the safety and progress of all climbers, even the ones who does not hire sherpas, as they are making use of ropes set up by various sherpa-teams.
It is important to recognise and appreciate the significant contributions of Sherpas in the world of mountaineering. They have played a crucial role in numerous successful expeditions and have often reached the summit multiple times, demonstrating their unparalleled expertise and dedication. Sherpas have rightfully earned their place as respected and admired members of the climbing community.
In Kristin’s journey, Tenjen Sherpa, also known as Lama, has been a trusted and essential member of her team. He is from the expedition company Seven Summit Treks that Kristin has hired to help her plan this year’s expedition. Lama has proven that his experience, guidance, and strength have been invaluable in navigating the demanding terrain and ensuring the safety of the expedition. With Tenjen’s support, Kristin has been able to focus on her own physical and mental challenges, knowing she has a skilled and reliable partner by her side. At multiple points, Lama has been the one to take the initiative to start a summit-push and has guided and set ropes down for Kristin but also other climbers.
Together, Kristin and Tenjen exemplify the importance of collaboration, mutual trust, and respect between climbers and Sherpas. Their partnership represents the deep bond formed during mountain expeditions and serves as a reminder of the shared determination required to climb the world’s highest peaks.
Speed and Efficiency
Kristin and Lama’s completion of all seven mountains in just over a month is a testament to their remarkable speed and efficiency. While individual records may vary, their incredible achievement places them among the fastest climbers of these peaks. This feat underscores their exceptional mountaineering prowess and demonstrates their ability to perform under challenging conditions at high altitudes.
Previous record holders have also showcased incredible speed in their endeavours. For instance, Nims Purja accomplished the first seven mountains in his Project Possible in an astonishing two months and 11 days. In comparison, Kristin and Lama performed their first seven mountains this year in half this time.
Honouring Trailblazers
Kristin and Lama’s achievement in climbing the fourteen Eight Thousanders is built upon the legacy of remarkable individuals who have left an indelible mark on the world of mountaineering. These trailblazers have shattered barriers, pushed boundaries, and set records that have inspired generations of adventurers. Among the celebrated pioneers are both women and men who have showcased extraordinary courage, skill, and determination in their mountaineering endeavors.
One such trailblazer is Junko Tabei, the first woman to summit Mount Everest in 1975. Tabei’s achievement paved the way for countless women to follow in her footsteps and challenge the traditionally male-dominated realm of mountaineering. Her unwavering spirit and determination continue to inspire aspiring female adventurers to this day.
Another notable figure is Reinhold Messner, a legendary mountaineer known for his daring ascents and innovative climbing techniques. Messner, the first person to climb all fourteen of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest, without supplemental oxygen, revolutionised the sport and pushed the limits of what was previously thought possible.
In recent years, the achievements of women in mountaineering have gained significant recognition. For instance, Spanish mountaineer Edurne Pasaban achieved the feat of becoming the first woman to summit all fourteen of the world’s 8000-meter peaks, and she was the 21st person to do so.
As Kristin embarks on her own extraordinary journey, she stands on the shoulders of those who have come before her. Their stories serve as a constant reminder that with courage, determination, and a steadfast belief in one’s abilities, remarkable feats can be accomplished. By honouring these trailblazers, Kristin adds depth and historical context to her own achievement, further inspiring and empowering future generations of mountaineers to follow their dreams and reach new heights.
In the spirit of embracing both the past and the present, Kristin’s record-breaking accomplishment serves as a testament to the continued progress of women in mountaineering and the enduring legacy of those who dared to challenge the status quo.
Kristin and Lama’s awe-inspiring accomplishment of climbing seven of the world’s highest mountains in just over a month stands as a testament to their exceptional skills and unwavering determination. Their remarkable journey inspires adventurers worldwide, encouraging them to push their boundaries, overcome challenges, and embrace the beauty of the natural world. As Kristin forges ahead, we eagerly await her future endeavours and anticipate further record-breaking achievements in the world of mountaineering.