We knew the feat was underway, but it was difficult to reach “Blutch” still perched somewhere on the flanks of K2 (8611 m, Pakistan). Good for him. It was important for him to be able to come down quietly and without pressure. Except that it was Blutch himself who contacted us via inReach this very morning. He confirms his remarkable ascent on Sunday July 29, 2024, alone, without oxygen, in alpine style and by a route other than the normal one, namely the Cesen spur and the “Basques” route. This combination of style, fair means and alternative route is extremely rare on an 8,000 m climb, and even more so on K2. These are the first words from Blutch, who is still overcome with emotion. We also hope to hear soon from Liv Sansoz and Bertrand “Zeb” Roche, who reached the summit on the same day, via the normal route.
