Winter 2020/2021
This expedition is for anyone who has ever been told their dreams are impossible.
In December of 2020, Colin traveled to Pakistan to attempt to make the first winter ascent of K2. K2 was the last of the fourteen highest peaks, those over 8000M (26,000 ft), that remained unclimbed in winter.
Colin teamed up with friend and long time climbing partner, Dr. Jon Kedrowski. Both Americans have spent countless nights in the outdoors together and on high altitude expeditions.
Outfitted with the latest satellite tech and connectivity, the two month expedition featured live daily updates. Real-time storytelling was shared on Colin's social channels. @colinobrady
““...a climb that has long been considered impossible...one of the last remaining great prizes in mountaineering—the first winter ascent of the world’s second-tallest mountain.”
Nepali Team Achieves Historic Winter First on K2
On January 16, 2021 a team of 10 Nepali climbers made history, successfully completing the first winter ascent of K2! Colin and Jon were there to congratulate and celebrate their successful summit and safe return down the mountain. A monumental accomplishment for the climbers and the country of Nepal — a well deserved, unparalleled feat. Huge congratulations to: Nirmal Purja, Mingma ‘G’ Gyalje Sherpa, Mingma David Sherpa, Mingma Tenzi Sherpa, Geljen Sherpa, Dawa Temba Sherpa, Pem Chiri Sherpa, Kilu Pemba Sherpa, Dawa Tenjin Sherpa and Sona Sherpa.
Triumph & Tragedy
Once the first winter ascent of K2 had been completed, Colin and Jon remained on the mountain awaiting another suitable weather window to continue their efforts at a winter ascent of K2. However, the mountain would see no more confirmed summits. Tragically, five climbers would not return home from this expedition. Friends including Sergi Mingote, Juan Pablo Mohr, John Snorri, Ali Sadpara and Atanas Skatov lost their lives on K2. They will be dearly missed and celebrated for their ambitions and love of high altitude mountaineering.
Live Tracking
The expedition was tracked in real-time December 2020 - February 2021.
The History
K2, the second highest mountain in the world, sits in the Karakoram range on the border of Pakistan and China next to neighboring 8000ers including Broad Peak, Gasherbrum I and Gasherbrum II. At 8,611 metres (28,251 ft) tall, K2 has seen approximately 367 people stand on its summit. The first ascent of K2 was made by Italian climbers, Achille Compagnoni and Lino Lacedelli, on July 31, 1954. Since then it’s been summited with and without the use of supplemental oxygen, but only in the summer season — until now. The first winter ascent of K2 has now also been accomplished. On January 16, 2021 — a team of 10 Nepali climbers collaborated to make history!
The Stakes
K2 is often considered the most difficult mountain to climb. Arguably a harder mountain to summit than Mt. Everest, K2 is known to be dangerous and deadly. With hurricane force wind gusts and freezing temperatures dropping to minus 80 Farenheit, the inhospitable and unpredictable weather on K2 is straight up perilous. Nicknamed “Savage Mountain,” the risks of frequent avalanches, high altitude and harsh weather make it a serious undertaking for even the most experienced climbers. A winter attempt only enhances the challenges of this notorious peak.
“An artist has made this mountain.”
Fueling the Expedition
Long time nutrition partner, Standard Process, has formulated a high-performance nutrition bar to fuel Colin’s K2 expedition. Derivative of the original “Colin Bar” - the customized whole food nutrition solution that sustained Colin for his world first 54-day crossing of the landmass of Antarctica and his world first ocean row across Drake Passage - this plant-based meal bar aims to help high performers reach their most ambitious goals and provides nutrient-dense energy all day long. Exciting news… a limited release of the Possible Bar is available for purchase. Try the exact product that’s nourishing Colin’s body while he’s on K2 this winter. Fuel your goals; get yours while supplies last!
Beyond The climb
In continuation of Colin’s mission to inspire kids and communities to dream big, set goals and live active, healthy lives - his non-profit, Beyond 7/2, has once again partnered with Dr. Drizzle to provide relevant STEM curriculum to kids via digital expedition curriculum and live engagement. Registration link is open to access content and join the journey!
Partners
