American ultrarunner Tyler Andrews has declared his intention to return to Mount Everest this autumn to pursue the coveted speed record for an ascent without supplemental oxygen. This ambitious endeavor, following several unsuccessful attempts earlier in the year, underscores Andrews' unwavering determination to achieve a challenging mountaineering milestone. His strategy for this unique fall expedition focuses on a lean, self-reliant approach, aiming to capitalize on the distinct conditions of Everest outside the popular spring climbing season.
Andrews' decision to undertake this challenging climb in the fall season presents a significantly more formidable task compared to the bustling spring period. Nevertheless, he has meticulously devised a comprehensive plan. His journey to Nepal is slated for mid-September, with the summit push anticipated during the initial week of October. This commitment led him to forego participation in the renowned Ultra-Trail du Mont Blanc (UTMB), highlighting his singular focus on the Everest record. He conveyed to ExplorersWeb that while the undertaking is inherently arduous, he firmly believes its successful completion is within his capabilities.
During the previous spring season, Andrews launched three separate attempts to achieve a rapid ascent of Everest. His initial bid was thwarted by a critical equipment malfunction. The subsequent attempt, which involved the use of supplementary oxygen, was regrettably terminated by the expedition organizer due to perilous weather conditions. In a final, spontaneous effort, he was compelled to retreat shortly after reaching Camp 4. Notably, he was not the sole individual aiming for a speed record at that time; Karl Egloff from Ecuador also pursued a round-trip, no-oxygen record from Base Camp, but withdrew after encountering extreme cold below Camp 3.
Reflecting on his past experiences, Andrews shared his initial feelings of profound disappointment. He confessed that for about half a day following his spring failures, he was convinced he would never return to the mountain. However, a shift in perspective occurred after returning to Kathmandu, allowing him to regain his confidence. He is now convinced that the record is attainable, provided all elements align perfectly. He lamented that if not for the equipment issue, the challenging weather, or his fatigue, one of his prior attempts would undoubtedly have succeeded.
Financially, Andrews is not shouldering the entire burden of this fall expedition alone, as another climbing team is also planning an Everest ascent during the same period. He anticipates a dramatically less crowded mountain, with only about a dozen individuals expected, a stark contrast to the thousands present in spring. This reduced presence, he believes, will eliminate traffic jams and enable him to select optimal weather windows without competition for summit opportunities. While the identities of the other climbers remain largely unknown to Andrews, he understands that Seven Summit Treks is facilitating their expedition, and Asian Trekking will also be supporting two commercial clients.
Andrews has embraced a streamlined logistical strategy for this attempt. He revealed that his team will comprise solely himself and Dawa Steven, who will manage the logistics. His plan is to climb independently, with a single individual positioned at Camp 4 (8,000m) to provide emergency support. This minimalist approach is designed to minimize potential points of failure and enhance his self-reliance, even if it means carrying a greater amount of personal gear during the climb.
The autumn season on Everest presents unique challenges distinct from those of spring. Typically, there's a greater accumulation of snow from the summer monsoon, which can elevate the risk of avalanches. However, this increased snowfall also has the benefit of filling in crevasses and creating more direct routes through the infamous Khumbu Icefall. Andrews acknowledges that stable weather windows are generally less frequent in autumn, but with a significantly smaller number of climbers on the mountain, his team will have the flexibility to be much more selective about their timing for the summit push.
Andrews' primary objective is to surpass the current no-oxygen speed record of 20 hours and 24 minutes, which was established in 1998 by Kazi Sherpa for the ascent from Base Camp to the summit. He highlighted the significant impact of supplementary oxygen, noting that the fastest time recorded with it is a mere 10 hours and 56 minutes, underscoring the immense difficulty of his chosen challenge. While Kazi Sherpa utilized oxygen for his descent, Andrews has not yet disclosed his strategy for the return journey. However, in his previous attempts, his focus was primarily on a one-way Base Camp-to-summit record, implying that the method of descent may not be a critical factor in his overall record attempt.
Unearthing History, One Discovery at a Time
A Palentologist's Path: From Childhood Spark to Coastal Expeditions
This concise YouTube documentary chronicles the professional life of Dr. Fiann Smithwick, a paleontologist whose career began with an unexpected childhood incident. Today, he traverses Britain's Jurassic Coast with his canine companion, diligently seeking out ancient relics.
A Loyal Companion: The Story of Tia, the Rescue Dog
The film commences with a brief introduction to Fiann, followed by a more extensive look at Tia, his mixed-breed rescue dog. Tia, who was abandoned in Romania, has since become Fiann's devoted partner in his fossil hunting endeavors.
Lyme Regis: A Mecca for Fossil Enthusiasts
Lyme Regis, Fiann's hometown, is, in his words, \"the primary destination for fossil hunting in the UK.\" On the coastline, the powerful waves erode the cliffs, gradually exposing a treasure trove of fossils.
Unveiling Secrets: Fiann's Expert Techniques for Fossil Detection
Navigating through the crashing waves, Fiann demonstrates his methodology to the camera. He picks up a rock the size of a fist, explaining how its form and the sound it produces when struck can indicate the presence of hidden fossils. He then cracks the stone open, revealing minuscule ammonites.
The Healing Power of Obsession: Paleontology as a Catalyst for Recovery
As a youth, Fiann was captivated by the fossils he found scattered on the beach or buried within his garden. However, he ceased his fossil hunting activities during his teenage years after being diagnosed with post-viral chronic fatigue.
For several months, he was confined to his home. To rebuild his stamina, he began taking short, gradual walks, progressively extending their duration. Eventually, he was able to explore the beach once more. Upon discovering a fossil, he remarked, \"It reignited something within me, re-engaging my intellect.\"
His escalating enthusiasm kept him physically active and intellectually stimulated, and he firmly believes it aided his recovery from the illness. He subsequently decided to transform this passion into a profession, becoming a renowned paleontologist.
Treasures of the Jurassic Coast: From Ammonites to Ichthyosaurs
While small ammonites and petrified wood are common discoveries, the truly captivating finds are the ichthyosaurs. At the local natural history museum, the Charmouth Heritage Coast Center, Fiann proudly displays an Ichthyosaur he unearthed in 2013. The sight of rows of teeth protruding from the rock filled him with the \"rush of adrenaline and joy\" that accompanies an extraordinary discovery.
A Homage to History: Remembering Mary Anning, the Pioneering Fossil Hunter
After leaving the museum, Fiann directs our attention to a statue of Mary Anning, one of the earliest fossil hunters in the region. Anning was a groundbreaking paleontologist from the early 19th century who discovered many of the first complete plesiosaurs and ichthyosaurs at Lyme Regis.
A Harmonious Blend of Lives: Intertwined Destinies and Future Horizons
The narrative concludes with Fiann, always accompanied by Tia, proposing to his partner, Flora, an accomplished ultramarathon runner.
This concise film prompts viewers to reflect on how its diverse yet interconnected elements complement one another: the abandoned stray transformed into a fossil hunting companion, the ailing teenager who found healing through a rekindled love for paleontology, the quaint town brimming with fossil enthusiasts, and the enduring splendor of the natural world, perfectly preserved in stone.
National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions has recently unveiled an enhanced youth education initiative, rebranding its 'Global Explorers' program into 'Explorers-in-Training.' This revamped program is meticulously designed to immerse young participants in the wonders of scientific exploration, conservation, and cultural understanding through hands-on activities during voyages to diverse global destinations. The new approach emphasizes experiential learning, moving beyond conventional children's club formats to offer a more profound and engaging educational journey for young adventurers.
The transformation reflects a commitment to fostering a new generation of environmentally conscious explorers, providing them with practical skills and knowledge. From operating Zodiac boats to studying marine life, participants gain invaluable insights into various ecosystems, guided by expert staff. This dedication to enriching the experience for all ages underscores the growing trend of multi-generational travel, ensuring that every family member finds unique opportunities for learning and discovery aboard these specialized expeditions.
A New Chapter in Youth Engagement
National Geographic-Lindblad Expeditions has introduced a significant upgrade to its youth programming with the launch of the 'National Geographic Explorers-in-Training' initiative. This enhanced program builds upon the foundations of the former 'National Geographic Global Explorers' offering, which was first established in collaboration with National Geographic Education in 2017. The core objective of this refreshed program is to provide aspiring young scientists and adventurers with unparalleled hands-on learning experiences. Participants will engage in a variety of practical activities, including but not limited to, piloting Zodiac boats, meticulously collecting plankton samples for scientific study, and diligently logging observations of diverse wildlife. This innovative educational amenity will be a highlight on specific voyages, carefully selected to explore some of the planet's most iconic and ecologically rich regions. These destinations include the majestic landscapes of Alaska, the pristine icy expanses of Antarctica, the vibrant marine ecosystems of Baja California, the dramatic volcanic terrain of Iceland, and the unique biodiversity of the Galapagos Islands. The program's design ensures that young travelers are not merely observers but active participants in the journey of discovery, fostering a deep connection with the natural world and cultivating essential scientific skills.
This rebranding signifies a fresh and dynamic approach to how young travelers interact with and learn about the science, culture, and conservation efforts pertinent to the regions they visit. The program distinguishes itself from conventional children's clubs by offering a highly integrated and age-appropriate expedition experience. It aims to ignite a lasting passion for exploration, environmental conservation, and the art of storytelling among its participants. Each young explorer is equipped with a region-specific field notebook, encouraging them to document their discoveries through engaging activities such as "In The Field: Spot It! Clues," creative storytelling challenges, onboard scientific experiments, and interactive games. The curriculum is expertly led by a Certified Field Educator, complemented by a team of highly qualified specialists, including National Geographic Photography Experts who guide participants in visual storytelling, undersea specialists who reveal the mysteries of the ocean, and naturalists who provide profound insights into local flora and fauna. Upon the successful conclusion of their expedition, each participant is honored with a commemorative patch and a certificate, symbolizing their achievements and newfound knowledge. This comprehensive and immersive educational journey is meticulously crafted to inspire curiosity, promote environmental stewardship, and prepare the next generation of global citizens.
Immersive Learning Journeys
The 'National Geographic Explorers-in-Training' program is strategically integrated into a selection of family-friendly itineraries, ensuring that young participants can experience some of the world's most extraordinary natural wonders in a context that is both educational and engaging. These curated voyages offer unique opportunities for hands-on exploration and learning, tailored to the specific characteristics of each destination. For instance, on the "Exploring Galapagos" itinerary aboard the National Geographic Endeavour II and the newly launched National Geographic Gemini, young travelers are transported to the very islands that inspired Charles Darwin's groundbreaking theory of evolution. Here, emerging explorers will actively participate in collecting plankton for microscopic examination, observe the fascinating behaviors of sea lions during snorkeling excursions, and traverse the unique landscapes of black-sand beaches and lush highlands. This direct engagement with the environment provides an unparalleled understanding of biodiversity and ecological principles. Similarly, the eight-day "Alaska's Inside Passage" adventure, sailing from Juneau to Sitka on the National Geographic Venture and National Geographic Quest, invites young curious minds to delve into the majestic fjords, marvel at the grandeur of glaciers, and kayak along the stunning coastline in pursuit of diverse marine life. Each itinerary is thoughtfully designed to maximize educational impact while offering thrilling adventures.
Further enriching the program's offerings, families embarking on the eight-day "Baja California: Among the Great Whales" itinerary will explore the captivating coastlines of Baja California. This expedition focuses on observing an array of marine mammals, including agile dolphins, playful sea lions, and potentially up to five distinct species of whales. The immersive nature of these encounters fosters a deep appreciation for marine conservation and the intricate balance of ocean ecosystems. Concluding the lineup of featured itineraries, the "Antarctica Direct: Fly the Drake Passage" trip revolutionizes the Antarctic experience by including a flight over the renowned Drake Passage. This innovative approach significantly optimizes the time young travelers spend exploring the awe-inspiring White Continent aboard the National Geographic Explorer or National Geographic Orion. Participants in this segment of the program can engage in thrilling scavenger hunts designed to locate local wildlife, venture into the mesmerizing icy channels that characterize the polar landscape, and explore alongside experienced naturalists who provide expert commentary and insights. These immersive learning journeys, from the tropical biodiversity of the Galapagos to the icy wonders of Antarctica, are meticulously crafted to provide unparalleled educational adventures that leave a lasting impression on young explorers, encouraging them to become lifelong advocates for conservation and discovery.