We learned ice axe arrests and learned the French, American and Charlie Chaplin techniques. None of which are as exciting or as fun as they sound.

I learned how to put my ice axe down my backpack and draw it forth like He-Man. That was cool. By the power of GraySkull!

The theme tune for the French technique is Nelly the Elephant, which will now be in my head all night.

A few minor injuries in the team. A swollen lip, some sore feet, a lot of sunburn.  And I got a splinter in my thumb. Oweee!

At one point today the snow gave way beneath guide’s feet, then beneath mine. Scary stuff. Luckily the rocks weren’t far below.

We’re doing some last minute gear checking, packing and repacking. We’re meant to be resting, but everyone is fairly worked up.

It’s quite difficult to keep devices charged and get signal. Thanks to all for the good wishes. Follow Earth’sEdge for news if you don’t hear from me.

We met an Aussie climber from Melbourne. He was the first person to properly appreciate my hat. That was nice. We start out at 3am!

Just heard that due to high winds at the summit. We’re delaying our departure to 5am, which means a warm sunny descent with no water.

(This post was sent by text message to a friend who has uploaded it to Baldfeet on Dermot’s behalf.)