Leeds Metropolitan University

Everest West Ridge 2006

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John Allan

Location

Naylam

Time

23rd May 2006

Getting back on the horse

I think I made a bad choice of travel novel. I opted for an eclectic mix of philosophy (Life of Pi - Yann Martel) and farce (Granchester Grind - Tom Sharpe). The latter's absurd view of academia began to mirror my return journey to Nepal and my date with the EWR climbers. With every turn of the page I encountered another set back. Delayed flights, missed connections and unwanted complimentary meals tested my patience and desire to reach Kathmandu.

I am following a tight schedule to intercept the climbers following their summit bids. Tomorrow, as I cross the border from Nepal to Tibet, the team may simultaneously be stepping into history as the first britons to ascend Everest via the West Ridge. In order to capture the essence of these moments I possess a drive to make up time and ascend quickly. However, as I have learned to my cost, Acute Mountain Sickness is the result of inadequate acclimatsation and such action would be farcical.

I feel content with the knowledge that measured self-determination and inner control are the hallmarks of resilience that help to overcome barriers which arise to prevent forward momentum. Ensuring that I meet challenge and risk with both emotional maturity and cognitive competence, I feel that the fabric of my research will be not be wasted, but enriched by my own experience. The climbers themselves will not rush into making decisions that are perilous. They, themselves will wait for the right moment. You can see that I have changed books.

John Allan is researching Psychological Resilience with the Everest West Ridge Expedition

Carnegie Visiting team 26 April

John O'Hara 24 April

John Allan 24 April