Tatopani, October 19:

Three asthmatics have set a new record by reaching the 7066-metre North Col without carrying oxygen cylinders.

Dutch nationals Martyn Pynappels, Ernst Te Velthuis, Jeroen Van Der Menlen and leader of the De-ice expedition, Frank Rempe, reached the North Col on last Thursday after eight days of diligent efforts.

The expedition was organised by the Snow Leopard and Explore Nepal Richa Tours and Travels.

Twenty-five asthmatics of the 31-member expedition have reached the 6400-metre ABC Camp. But only three of them could make it to the North Col due to harsh climbing conditions.

“We had hoped that at least 12 members of the expedition will reach the North Col,” said Rempe, adding: “But only four of them could reach there due to strong wind, extreme cold and a difficult route.”

“It was a very difficult journey,” said Martyn Pynappels, adding: “The steep ice and dense snow was breathtaking.”

“We had never imagined that the climbing will be so difficult,” he said, adding: “I have reverence for all those who have scaled the Everest.”

“It was a team work. Though only four of us reached the North Col, it became possible due to the support and cooperation of our team,” said Velthuis. “The climbing was tiring — physically and mentally,” he said, noting: “We had not undergone training on ice climbing.”

“Looking at huge masses of ice, you felt you could not conquer it,” he said.

Jeroen Menlen is not sure whether he will attempt to climb mountains again. For him, this was a very exciting experience and a difficult journey.

“Climbing is similar to all people whether you are asthmatics or not. Proper medication and fitness are important. These people have told the world that asthmatics do not live by limitations but by possibilities,” Rempe said, adding: “I should say that this is a great success.”