Update Wednesday, 8 May 2002, Voice mail message from Jim at ABC: Jim and Scott were going up to Camp 1 today, spend the night, then go to Camp 2 and set it up. They also hope to carry some gear up to Camp 3 at 8,200 meters (26,900 feet) before returning to ABC and BC to rest up for a summit push. They plan to spend 5-6 days at the upper camps before returning to ABC and BC. This climb to set up the upper camps was delayed while they waited for replacement gear arrival. Unfortunately, only 2-man (not 3-man) tents were received.

Adrian has left the expedition, citing lack of team cohesion, decision making and climbing logistics differences. No further details were provided.

No further word has been heard from Sony about replacing the failed Sony unit, but the other major manufacturer we are working with has asked for the address to ship the unit to in Kathmandu.

Dispatches