Ukranian federation plans youth climb of Elbrus

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Young mountaineers between 18 and 30 have the chance to take part in an international ascent of the highest peak of Europe next summer.

The Mount Elbrus (5,642m) expedition will take place from July 6 to 16, 2009, and is is the perfect opportunity for those who would like to join a challenging, but not technically difficult, tour.

The ascent has become a yearly tradition for the Ukrainian Mountaineering Federation and expedition leader Alexander Zaidler, and is a very popular event on the Global Youth Summit Calendar.

"To climb Mt. Elbrus is a dream of many mountaineers. The gorgeous panoramic view from the top of this mountain is the souvenir climbers take with them and remember all their lives," says Zaidler.

Participants must be in good health and have experience of being out in the mountains and sleeping in tents at low temperatures. Previous experience of using crampons is an advantage. The programme includes time for acclimatisation to the high altitude and training on the glacier before the ascent. There is even a possibility for ski touring.
 
"The ascent is not technically difficult in summer," says Zaidler. "It does not require either deep knowledge or wide experience in using mountaineering techniques. However low temperature, severe winds and possible bad weather demand courage and strong will power from the climbers."

The event costs €330 (which includes accommodation, guiding, meals and permits) plus an estimated €90 for local transport. Participants must also organise their own travel to the International Airport of Mineralny Vody, Russia and bring pocket money. 

More details, contact information and the full programme can be found in the information pack. The application form must be sent to the organisers before May 15, 2009. This is a popular event, and it might be fully booked before the registration deadline.

On the Youth Event Reports page you will find the report from last year's expedition. On the bottom of this page, are pictures from Elbrus in the 2008 Events photo gallery.