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Renowned Sherpa climber Kami Rita is poised to undertake a remarkable ascent of Mount Everest, aiming to set a new record in the spring climbing season.
At 55 years old, Rita, a revered figure among mountain guides, is determined to reach the summit of the world’s highest peak for the 31st time, with the possibility of a 32nd ascent.
He departed from Kathmandu on Sunday to lead his expedition to the summit, which stands at an elevation of 8,849 meters (29,032 feet).
“I feel mentally, emotionally, and physically ready for this climb,” Kami Rita expressed to the Associated Press at the airport in Kathmandu. “I am currently in my best physical shape.”
Holding the record for the most successful summits of Mount Everest, Rita has reached the peak 30 times previously, notably completing two ascents in May of the previous year.
He emphasized, “My primary goal is to ensure my client reaches the summit first. Depending on the circumstances on the mountain, I will then decide whether to attempt another climb this season.”
Rita’s main rival for the title of the most climbs is fellow Sherpa guide Pasang Dawa, who has summited Everest successfully 27 times.
Kami Rita embarked on his inaugural climb of Everest in 1994 and has been returning almost every year since. He exemplifies the invaluable role of Sherpa guides, whose experience is crucial for ensuring the safety and success of foreign climbers eager to reach the pinnacle.
Rita’s father was among the pioneers of Sherpa mountain guiding. Beyond his extensive experience on Everest, he has also conquered other of the world’s towering peaks, including K2, Cho Oyu, Manaslu, and Lhotse.
According to Nepal’s Department of Tourism, this climbing season has seen 214 climbers being issued permits to attempt Mount Everest from the southern Nepali side, with the season expected to conclude in May. Most ascents of Everest and surrounding Himalayan mountains typically occur in April and May, which offer the most favorable weather conditions.
The first successful ascent of Everest took place in 1953, achieved by New Zealander Edmund Hillary and Nepali Sherpa Tenzing Norgay.
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www.yahoo.com