Aconcagua story 4

About the record.

There are several records on this mountain. Those from the park entrance mean you trail run for about 25km and then you start climbing up the mountain..I was not interested much in that one. For me the Holy grail was the climbing up part..starting from Plaza de Mulas to the summit! Held by Brunod/Meraldi/Pellissier it dates back to year 2000. Some locals said it seemed impossible. I said to myself it is worth trying. Starting from ranger’s office in the BC seems logical and was suggested by @ and @ , the female record holders as the official starting point.

Conditions are always different on the mountain from day to day, year to year. So, in fact, term ‘fastest known time (FKT) is used instead of ‘record’. This season seems to be very dry. Was I lucky? Is moving scree and rocks easier than snowy slopes? I am not sure and I don’t care. Mountain decides!               

Why speed climb a mountain?

I think there are more than one ways to climb the mountains. If it drives you and inspires you then I think you have the answer.

I heard that when going fast I can’t contemplate the mountain! I beg to disagree!! I never felt more in connection with the mountain than during my speed ascents. I am on the edge, physically and mentally. I ‘feel’ the mountain and its power because I try myself against it! I feel the weather, my instincts are ON.

That’s why I love it! I go solo. I accept the risk. And I do everything to survive! You sort of become an animal.

Isn’t that why great things happen when men and mountain meet?