Inaki Ochoa: What Really Happened on Annapurna?

There has been a lot of talk going on in regards to the recent events on Annapurna.  Inãki Ochoa, one of the premier climbers in the world, tragically perished.  Once it was learned that Inãki Ochoa was in trouble, a massive effort was undertaken to rescue the fallen climber.  He was stranded high in the deathzone, with only his climbing partner, Horio Calabasanu by his side.

During the hours and days that followed, many of the world’s top alpine climbers would make a heroic effort to reach Ochoa and bring him down to safety.  Up to this point, there has not been much information as to what actually took place between Horio Calabasanu’s first call for help and the death of Inãki Ochoa de Olza.  That is, until now.

The Hardware Sessions Blog, the adventure blog from the Mountain Hardware Team, has recently put up a piece written by Edi Erstermannn who goes in to the details of what actually transpired on Annapurna just a couple of weeks ago.  It should be noted that Ueli Steck, who was able to reach Ochoa on Annapurna is sponsored by Mountain Hardware and was recently awarded the Eiger Award, in part for his efforts in this rescue attempt.  Steck should not be the only one recognized for the incredible effort to reach Inaki Ochoa as Simon Anthamatten, Horio Calabasanu, Denis Urubko, and Don Bowie all put up a heroic effort to save a friend in need.

I am going to warn you, the Hardware Sessions piece is quite emotional, but to truly understand the events that took place, you need to hear from those who were there.  For the first time, most of the participants speak out and let us in to a miraculous attempt that unfortunately ended in tragedy.  A special thanks needs to go out to Patricia Bamert and Cynthia Houng for translating this wonderful piece.  Click below to read the article.

On Annapurna