In January 5, 2001, Felipe Stevenson will lead an international group of three mountaineers in a lifelong dream of climbing Mount Aconcagua. After two years of arduous preparations, the 17-day-long expedition will begin in the Argentinean city of Mendoza, where Stevenson's team will join other climbers who gather there throughout the summer season attempting to reach the continent's highest summit. Approximately one third of the climbers will succeed. Altitude sickness, furiously changing weather and fatigue will prevent the rest from reaching the coveted target. Last year more than 10 people perished in the attempt.
Consisting of three amateur mountaineers from the United States, Germany and Chile, the Aconcagua 2001 Expedition is in itself a small enterprise that is encountering myriad obstacles in the realization of its objective. Each participant is required to contribute financially to an adventure whose outcome depends on a variety of internal and external factors. A sense of purpose, a cohesive team, a demanding training schedule and adequate equipment are key internal factors. The weather, the altitude and the terrain are unpredictable external elements that force the members of the expedition to constantly change course as they approach their target. Despite the risks involved in conquering the summit, each participant knows that topping the mountain will provide him with an enduring and enriching personal experience.
 |