2 Sherpas depart for Everest

Apa Sherpa and Lhapka Sherpa said their goodbyes to Utah this morning and departed for Nepal for another expedition to Mount Everest.

This expedition, however, has a special significance for them. The "Super Sherpa" expedition will consist solely of Sherpa guides and porters, and be the subject of a documentary they're hoping will raise funds for education and other services in Nepal and increase awareness about Sherpa culture. Apa and Lhapka have little education themselves and say education is a pressing need in their home country.

The expedition is also serving a medical purpose. Doctors conducted tests on the Sherpas at The Orthopedic Specialty Hospital they hope will help them better understand the Sherpas' unique high-altitude athleticism. Those tests will continue as the Sherpas ascend Everest.

No one has reached the 29,035 foot summit faster than Lhapka, who has made the ascent in just under 11 hours. And Apa has stood on top of Everest a record 16 times.

The two Everest guides have told the Deseret Morning News they're excited for another attempt at the summit in May, because, as Apa said, "We'll tell the Sherpa story to try to raise money and help the Sherpas."

Starting today, readers of the Deseret Morning News will be able to access "The Sherpa Experience" via deseretnews.com. Stay tuned for periodic updates from the Sherpas and others involved in the expedition, who will be relating their experiences and perspectives. The blog will feature text, photos and occasional video footage of Nepal, its people and culture, and of Everest.

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E-mail: dbulkeley@desnews.com