Idman.biz
"I tried to provide first aid to a mountaineer in a serious condition along the way, and my knowledge and skills as a rescuer helped me a lot at that time."
This was stated in an interview with AZERTAC by Sima Safarova, a rescuer of the Special Risk Rescue Service of the Ministry of Emergency Situations (MES), who made a technical climb to Aconcagua (6962 meters), the highest peak in South America, at the initiative of the Azerbaijan Mountaineering Federation.
We present that interview.
- It is interesting, how did the idea of climbing Aconcagua peak come about?
- I have been involved in mountaineering for 15 years. In mountaineering, there is a concept of "the highest peaks of 7 continents" and Aconcagua is included in that list. For this reason, this peak has been in my plans for years.
- How long did you prepare for this climb?
- I exercise all year round - 12 months. I am involved in swimming, running and climbing. This is already my lifestyle.
- What were the most difficult moments along the way?
- The most difficult aspect of this peak for me was the deadline. Because there has been no restriction on the peaks I have climbed so far, such as not being allowed to climb the peak after a certain hour. There were moments when we couldn't reach it, but thank God, we reached the peak on time.
- What surprised you about Aconcagua's weather and mountain conditions?
- The effect of altitude on this mountain was completely different from the peaks I had seen before. If adaptation to altitude was possible in one day in other mountains, here this process was more difficult and longer.
- What did you feel when you reached the summit?
- There was a great feeling of joy and pride inside me. We did it and waved the Azerbaijani flag at the top. This is our greatest pride and main mission.
- How did the experience you gained as a MES rescuer help you in this climb?
- I tried to provide first aid to a mountaineer in a serious condition along the way, and my knowledge and skills as a rescuer helped me a lot at that time. Unfortunately, despite all our efforts, it was not possible to save that person's life. My fellow mountaineers and I did our best, but the mountain had already passed its verdict.
- Were there any dangerous situations during the expedition?
- The weather conditions were extremely harsh. The most dangerous moments were when we went out at night. At those moments, the risk of our hands freezing was very high.
- As a female mountaineer, how do you evaluate this success?
- As an Azerbaijani woman, climbing mountains and waving our flag at the top requires double responsibility. Because as a woman, achieving success in any field requires more struggle and energy compared to men.
- What advice would you give to young people interested in this field?
- They should always be involved in sports and make sports a lifestyle. In order to achieve success in any field, it is necessary to work hard first, so that it will be possible to see its benefits later.
- Are you planning new peaks or expeditions in the future?
- Of course, there are many plans. It just depends to some extent on financial matters. After this side is put in order, there will definitely be new peaks.
- Whose support would you especially like to mention in this success?
- First of all, I would like to mention the support of my family. They have always believed in me and supported me morally. Furthermore, the support of my friends who walked this path together is undeniable. We coped with this peak together.
