Lobuche / Ama Dablam

Although a new route on Lobuche, 6,100m, had been suggested as a 'warm-up' before attempting the main objective, on arrival in the area the team split into two, with Cartwright and Cross going straight for the uncompleted NW ridge of Ama Dablam, 6,812m. In a 10-day push they were successful on this route at Scottish VI (mixed), descending by the normal route. The rest of the team climbed on the N Face of Kongde, 6,150m, Coull & Chinnery making the second ascent of the Lowe/Breashers route (Scottish VII) and Bracey & Samuel the second complete ascent of 'Extra Blue Sky' (also Scottish VII). On return to Kathmandu, they were shocked to find that the Ministry of Tourism expected to receive a second peak fee for the descent route on Ama Dablam.