A group of nine climbers and three guides left Penitentes (small ski resort close to Mt Aconcagua) yesterday. They began their three day hike in to Plaza Argentina (14,000 ft aprox), the Ameghino route base camp. Mike Bradley (US) is the leading guide, and Augusto Ortega (Perú) and Eliana Caamaño (Argentina) are the other guides. The climbers are from places ranging from Dubai to Colorado. Due to the snow stroms in the US, getting the team together in Mendoza was a logistic challenge! But all the mountaineers finally got to enjoy a night at the Mendoza Park Hyatt and a welcoming dinner. Then they all got together in Penitentes (picture) and by the time they hitted the trail they were a solid team, Mike reported via sat phone today. I will be sending dispatches to keep you updated.
Regards from Mendoza
Nicolás García AP Mendoza
