Idman.biz
"On the way, I tried to provide first aid to a climber in critical condition, and my knowledge and skills as a rescuer helped me a lot during this 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 this interview.
- It is interesting, how did the idea to climb 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 on my plans for years.
- How long did you prepare for this climb?
- I exercise all year round – 12 months. I am engaged in swimming, running and climbing. This is already my lifestyle.
- What were the most difficult moments along the way?
- The most difficult part of this peak for me was the "deadline". Because there has never been a restriction on the peaks I have climbed so far, such as not being allowed to climb to the top 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 the weather and mountain conditions of Aconcagua?
- The effect of altitude on this mountain was completely different from the peaks I had seen before. In other mountains, adaptation to altitude was possible in one day, but here this process was more difficult and took longer.
- What did you feel when you reached the top?
- I had great joy and pride inside. We did it and waved the Azerbaijani Flag at the top. This is our greatest pride and main mission.
- How did your experience as a MES rescuer help you in this climb?
- On the way, I tried to provide first aid to a climber in critical condition, and my knowledge and skills as a rescuer helped me a lot during this time. Unfortunately, despite all our efforts, it was not possible to save that person's life. My other mountaineering companions 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 left at night. The risk of our hands freezing was very high at those moments.
- How do you assess this success as a female climber?
- 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 do sports and make sports a lifestyle. In order to achieve success in any field, it is necessary to work hard first, so that it is 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 on certain financial issues. After this side is settled, 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. Then, the support of my friends who walked this path together is undeniable. We overcame this peak together.
