newsgathers

The post-monsoon period in Nepal frequently heralds a surge in climbing activity on peaks like Manaslu. This season was no exception, with hundreds of climbers attempting to reach the summit. While many teams strategized to minimize congestion, bottlenecks and slow progress remained an inevitable part of the experience. Ziemski's approach offered a rare spectacle: a lone skier carving his path down the slopes while others meticulously ascended.

Ziemski's minimalist style, eschewing supplemental oxygen and personal Sherpa assistance, harks back to a more traditional form of mountaineering. His previous achievements include similar descents on Makalu and Kangchenjunga, often accompanied by Oswald Pereira, who documented these expeditions. Despite his impressive solo effort, it remains uncertain whether Ziemski managed a continuous ski descent of Manaslu due to challenges encountered on the icefall between Camp 2 and Camp 1.

The sheer volume of climbers on Manaslu this season underscores the increasing popularity of commercial expeditions. With nearly 375 foreign climbers, supported by numerous Sherpas ferrying supplies and oxygen, the mountain often resembles a busy highway. The reliance on bottled oxygen has become standard practice for many commercial ventures, prioritizing safety and efficiency over the inherent difficulties of high-altitude acclimatization. Recently, Seven Summit Treks reported 34 successful summits, with only two individuals achieving this without supplemental oxygen, further highlighting the prevailing trend.

Amidst this bustling environment, seasoned Spanish climber Carlos Soria, at 86 years old, is also embarking on his Manaslu expedition. Supported by a dedicated team of Sherpas and a photographer, Soria is meticulously planning his summit push. His team aims to reach Camp 1 tomorrow, with a rapid progression to Camp 3 on Wednesday, followed by a summit attempt on Friday. Soria's return to the 8,000-meter peaks is particularly poignant, as he is recovering from a leg injury sustained on Dhaulagiri in 2023, an incident where Ziemski himself played a role in his rescue.

The confluence of Ziemski's solitary, skilled descent and the collective ascents of numerous guided teams paints a vivid picture of contemporary high-altitude mountaineering. It showcases both the individual's quest for personal challenge and the evolving commercial landscape of these majestic peaks. As the season progresses, the mountain continues to be a舞台 for diverse narratives of ambition, endurance, and human interaction with nature's grandeur.