Photos by Philippe Gatta - This spring, Philippe Gatta and Jean-Marc Wojcik climbed Ama Dablam (22,493 feet), one of the most amazing peaks in the Khumbu region in Nepal. The two French climbers made a fast expedition – a 16-day round trip from Katmandu. They climbed the Southwest Ridge (VI 5.9 60°, 1,500 m) without Sherpa support and in rather unstable weather. On May 3rd, after 24 hours of snow fall, they took advantage of a short weather improvement to go for the summit. They decided to go straight from the camp 2 (19,685 feet), skipping the exposed camp 3. Jean-Marc decided to turn around at 6,300 meters, and Philippe continued alone. The weather deteriorated again, and Philippe reached the top in poor visibility at 3:15 p.m., making the 3rd ascent this year. Find more info about the route and photos at Philippe's website: http://www.philippegatta.fr/amadablam2.htm
