Today we stretched our legs with a 1.5 Mile walk from Base Camp to the entry rock, marking the start of Everest Base Camp.
As we rest and wait for a clear weather window to begin our first rotation to Camp One, I’d like to introduce the extraordinary group of climbers I have the privilege of sharing this journey with: (left to right)
Ryan Waters, Matt Bond, Jason Wang and Grace Chen
Ryan Waters – Our guide for the Everest summit, Ryan is a world-renowned mountaineer, author, photographer, and explorer. He made history as the first American to complete the Adventurers Grand Slam (7 summits + unsupported ski expeditions to the North and South Poles from land). I first met Ryan in 2019 while training for the poles and later joined him to complete the South Pole Last Degree Expedition, skiing 60 nautical miles from 89° to 90° South in Antarctica.
Matt Bond – Based in Boston, Matt is climbing his fourth of the seven summits. He holds a PhD in Public Policy, works with the CDC, and brings Northeast grit to the mountain—alongside unwavering loyalty to the Philadelphia Eagles.
Jason Wang – Hailing from San Francisco, Jason is an accomplished entrepreneur and full-time traveler. He’s climbing Everest as his seventh summit, and with 178 countries under his belt, he’s closing in on the “Ultimate Explorers Grand Slam.”
Grace Chen – Also from San Francisco, Grace is a former dentist turned adventurer. Like Jason, Everest will be her seventh summit. She’s visited 176 countries—hot on Jason’s heels—and is also pursuing the Ultimate Explorers Grand Slam: all 193 UN countries, the 7 summits, and last degree expeditions to both the North and South Poles.
An amazing group—each with their own story, strength, and purpose on the mountain.
