Fantastic news 5 of the team have arrived in base camp safely. Marius and Lauren arrived in 7 hours - Lauren did a strong hike today. Ray took 7.30 hours and Alex, Fred and Barry were close behind in 8 hours. Unfortunately Joe has picked up a flu bug and Roy has a severe stomach bug so the Doctor has advised them to return to Mendoza. Get well guys! I finally got some great pictures from the mountain - awesome to see their faces.
Today is a rest day after the strenuous day yesterday. If the weather is good they will take their ice gear up to the glazier and spend a few hours on the edge practicing. Plaza de Mulas is a very surreal place....after hiking for 8 hours there is a village filled with people from all over the world. Signs saying hamburgers, pizza, beer, hot showers and internet...!
Outside of Everest, Plaza de Mulas(Place of Mules) is the largest base camp in the world. Located at 14000 feet on a glacial moraine. Plaza de Mulas get it's name from the mule services which are responsible for bringing the heaviest gear up the mountain. The mules can carry up to 60 kilos. Plaza de Mulas is as far as they can go. This is where climbers spend their time between acclimatisation hikes and also waiting out bad weather. They will enjoy their rest here. 
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| Ray and Joe saying farewell |
Ray has set himself the target of raising R22 840.00 for The Sunflower Fund - R100 for every 100ft climbed. The Sunflower Fund recruits potential blood stem cell donors and raises funds to pay the R2500.00 tissue-typing test cost per donor required in the recruitment process.
To support Ray in his mission, visit his cause page on Given Gain to make a donation.
For more information about The Sunflower Fund or to register as a stem cell donor call 0800 121082 or visitwww.sunflowerfund.org.za.
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