The conditions were good. Dry. Temperate. A few clouds, but not enough to block out a generous sun. We could see the summit from down below. This was going to be a good day for a second attempt to summit the Eiffel Tower after our first try in December 2010.
The second attempt would be made with the Greek team. They are based in Luxembourg, a country known for its challenging peaks. They had summited several of them, without oxygen.
At base camp everything looked good. Mama had planned ahead. We had tickets right to the top. We were on time (No, really, we were on time. Yes, mama too). We prepared for our first ascent.
"Désolé, l'ascenseur jusqu'au sommet est en panne, vous pouvez monter jusqu'au deuxième."
Translation: "Sorry folks, the elevator to the top of this mass of iron you probably traveled across the word to see is out of order. Hope the second floor is good enough for you...again."
Translation: "Sorry folks, the elevator to the top of this mass of iron you probably traveled across the word to see is out of order. Hope the second floor is good enough for you...again."
This is not unusual. We climbers are used to disappointments. If conditions are not right, an attempt can be foolish. Only stairs or ropes to the top of the Eiffel Tower 324 meters up? Conditions NOT RIGHT.
Dude has another chance. There will be a third attempt.
Want to see the whole expedition? Check it out here: Elevator to Everest
Want to see the whole expedition? Check it out here: Elevator to Everest
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