Scottish Kyzyl Asker 2004

Following an unsuccessful trip to the Kokshaal Too area of Kyrgyzstan in 2002 [MEF Ref 02/41], this slightly changed team returned hoping that this time they would succeed in making the first ascent of the SE face of Kyzyl Asker (5,842m), or 'Red Soldier' in the local language. However, an extreme thaw had virtually demolished the dramatic central ice line, making them think that it would probably be more appropriate to attempt it in winter than summer. They therefore turned their attention elsewhere. They were successful in climbing five new routes, including the second recorded ascent of Kyzyl Asker by a route on its N face (1,200m with one pitch of Scottish VI) and first ascents of Great Walls of China ('Border Control') and Ochre Walls ('Fire and Ice'), both 500m ED Scottish VII.