A Polish-German team consisting of Adam Bielecki and Felix Berg have summitted Gasherbrum II in the Karakoram, making what is arguably the first ascent of the true west face. The first ascent on the west face was in 1975 (Onyszkiewicz, Zdzitowiecki) who entered from the left side of the face (NW). In 1995, Carsolio entered the right side of the wall (SW). Also climbing on this expedition, team members Jacek Czech (POL) returned to base camp from 7500m and Borys Dedeszko (KAZ) retired at 7800m.
Following a Twitter interaction with Polish commentator @dominobb, Adam realised that the line taken was in fact distinct from the 1975 ascent.
Tak wyszło ;) #GasherbrumsExploration2018 https://t.co/vgJpgvpoG8
— Adam Bielecki (@AdamTheClimber) July 18, 2018
Translation:
This just happened ;)
According to recent information, A. Bielecki and F. Berg have made the true first ascent. The first passage of the Western Wall (from S to N) was made in 1975. Onyszkiewicz, Zdzitowiecki entered the left side of the wall (NW). In 1995, Carsolio entered the right side of the wall (the SW).
Adam and Jacek are now resting at base camp and preparing to attempt the unclimbed G7. A further goal of the expedition was to attempt the unclimbed eastern wall of GIV, but it appears that conditions have caused the team to change plans. Speaking to Wspinanie.pl in an interview, Adam commented:
'It seems that it would be very problematic to approach the eastern wall of the GIV, due to the large amount of snow on the so-called Italian icefall. Unfortunately, the Italian climber Maurizio Giordano died there (as a result of the serwa breaking up) - this of course had a depressing effect on us. Taking this into account, it seems to me that our next goal will be GVII.'
Comments
That south face is pretty impressive hey