Update from Team Kili - June 28

This update comes from Team Hovet: AJ Hovet, John Schiebe and Jim Stelzer:

AJ reported that the trek from the Karanga Campsite was a steep climb; it was smooth, but a few sections were full of boulders. During this climb, the sighted guides really had to use their guiding skills to help the team through. Everyone is doing very well and they intend to make it the rest of the way.

John described the day as warm and beautiful. The team was scheduled to arrive at the Barafu Campsite at 15,500ft, but is currently at the Kosavo Campsite at 16,000ft due to the encouragement of their awesome guide, Nickson. The team is doing an incredible job, even with a few challenges along the way. John said the team is nervous, but its a good kind of nervous, because tomorrow they reach the summit!

The plan for tomorrow is to leave between midnight and 3am and head as a group to Stella Point (approximately 18,900ft) around sunrise. This stop is about 45 minutes to 1 hour from the summit.

Jim Stelzer described the clothing strategy for the rest of the climb. Because they are expecting VERY cold weather, the team will be wearing several layers. They'll begin with long underwear, light fleece, a layer of heavy fleece, Gortex wind resistant pants and jackets, and the top layer will be down pants and jackets. Brrr!

Both John and Jim took some time to thank all of the supporters of See Kili Our Way, especially family and friends. John mentioned a special hello and love to his wife and son, Landon, who turned 18 months today. The sacrifices of the families have made a huge impact on where Team Kili is today. The team is thinking about all of you and thank you all for your support, thoughts and prayers.

Team Kili plans to get everyone to the top!!!