If you haven't heard of Sharon Cohrs yet, or her devoted husband Alan, it's only a matter of time before you do. Having surmounted one of the biggest obstacles life can throw at a woman, namely breast cancer - the big C, Sharon is off to tackle the big E!

Our very own ex staff member Sumit, business partner Lakpa and their team of experienced guides will lead a trip up to the South Col of Sargarmatha (Everest). All going well they'll be on top somewhere between the 4-25th May. Check their blog here for details and updates...

http://www.himalayan-ascent.com/expeditions/everest-expedition.html

Last year saw Sharon climb with Alan on Cho Oyu, their first attempt at an 8000m mountain, only to be thwarted by poor conditions. Sherpas fixing ropes were avalanched on two seperate attempts thankfully with no fatalities or major injuries. It was at this point that Sharon, Al and the Himalyan Ascent team decided it was time to call it, and in so doing started the downward trend. From that point on all the big players followed. There were only 4 successful ascents for the season, all being in the Alpine Style with one summit in contention.

Returning in good cheer and happy with their performance at altitude on the mountain (c7600m) Sharon, Alan and the Himalayan Ascent team decided 2011 pre-monsoon season would see them attempt Everest. Sumit and Lakpa's team all had a chance to experience the trials and tribulations of an expedition to the south side together in the 2010 pre-monsoon season. Patrick Hollingworth from Perth was the first lucky punter to procure Himalayan Ascent for their first attempt. The result, success as a team on the mountain, the loss of a few kgs and a great blog from Pat here...

http://www.patrickhollingworth.com/

With a small experienced group, comprised also of locally known (imported/part time) Christine Burke and Himalayan guide Soren Ledet, they all look set for success, conditions permitting. Raul Helander of Sweden and Matthew Carlin of Australia will also be joining them. Sharon, Alan and Chris have put in years of ground work and rigorous training before even considering the possibility of attempting Everest. Each of them have been on Cho Oyu and have summitted Baruntse and Ama Dablam - a far cry from the humble trekking peaks that will surround them in the coming months. Soren and climbing partner will have logistics provided to BC, beyond there forging ahead under their own steam, load carrying and setting up camps, an unenviable task at altitude to which they are already well accustomed.

Geared up with Rab Expedition Down Suits and La Sportiva Olympus Mons boots, Shotz Energy Gels, poo bags, handwarmers, chinese cough syrup, some choice climbing DVDs and a plethora of mountain parephenalia, not to mention the most chilled and experienced support crew - we wish all of them the best of luck. You're in good hands.

Jamie, the Mountain Equipment Team and manager Boyd.