The project
The aim is make the first ascent of a mixed route up a particularly tough 5000m summit in Central Asia. The search is on for a young, experienced mountaineer, who is at home on snow and ice and won’t mind the long treks and freeze-dried meals. They won’t accompany Ines to the summit but will be fully involved in all stages of planning and the acclimatisation tour. The youngster will be the expedition reporter and record the highlights with a blog and photos.
The Expert
Ines Papert is four-time world champion and considered the best female ice-climber in the world. Her specialities are frozen waterfalls and glittering “ice curtains” the world over. Franz Walter is a professional outdoor filmmaker and photographer. He will be accompanying the youngster and providing advice and support with the reporting. He’s always open to new ideas.
The Experience Tour
The GORE-TEX® Experience Tour was devised to bring experts and the young outdoor community together. Working side by side, they will push boundaries and contribute to the development of outdoor sports. GORE-TEX® has mobilised outdoor specialists from across Europe, who are ready, willing and able to share their passion and experience. The projects are varied: there will be ‘urban adventures’ as well as alpine expeditions.
You could go ice climbing with Ines Papert, alpine climbing with Robert Jasper, trekking with Cameron Mcneish or build your own boots with Meidl.
Whether it is the first ascent of an untouched summit; filming an outdoor documentary in the Scottish wilderness; a photo expedition to Norway’s Lofoten archipelago or manufacturing a legendary trekking-shoe each unique experience will see young people standing toe to toe with the experts.
How to apply
The GORE-TEX® Experience Tour is being publicised and accompanied on Facebook. There is an online application procedure. In addition to voting by fans, a panel of outdoor experts and the respective professionals involved will also evaluate the candidates. Participants will be asked to contribute additional information in real-time by regularly blogging with text and pictures about their experiences.
Find out about all the challenges and apply here