Sherpa mountaineering icon Kami Rita has departed for Mount Everest once again, aiming to notch a historic 31st ascent and quite possibly claim a 32nd on his way during this spring season.
Waving to fans at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport, the 55-year-old climbing legend appeared more revitalized then ever. ‘I’m mentally, emotionally, physically, ready’ he said. This may be a double climb as well depending on mountain conditions.
Also known as the ‘Everest Man’, Kami Rita now holds the world record with 30 successful summits of the 8,849 m (29, 032 ft) high peak. He was first to top Everest in 1994 and is now a post-every-second-symbol of the Sherpa exceptional endurance and skill.
He will be one of the climbers attempting to reach the top from the Nepali side, where 214 climbers have received permits for the season, the Nepal Department of Tourism said. The best time for climbing to the peak is during April to May when the best weather is.
“My primary goal is that my client reaches the peak in one piece,” Rita said. “From there I will determine if another ascent is viable.”
Fellow Sherpa Pasang Dawa, is Rita’s closest competitor and has summited 27 times.
Kami Rita has conquered other giants apart from Everest, including K2, Cho Oyu, Manaslu and Lhotse as well in continuing the trail blazed by his father, one of the pioneering Sherpa guides.
As Everest season goes live, all eyes now switch to view another piece in Rita’s ever distinctive tale.
