Dr John Lowder, Was [pct-l] Re: ice axe

[brick@fastpack.com (Brick Robbins)]

At 11:22 PM 2/22/02, Reynolds, WT wrote:
>I find it incredible that an experienced backpacker like John Lowder didn't
>have an axe. My understanding is that only a fool would attempt the Sierra
>in mid-June without an axe. Everybody has said that John was no fool. Isn't
>it likely that it as ripped from his hand during the fall and not found?

I wasn't there, so I can't say for sure.

I recall he was with a group, and many of the hikers were in contact.

I don't recall anyone correcting the report that he didn't have an axe. (I 
searched the list archives also.....)

It was 3 years ago and my memory is not perfect, but I recall a 
conversation with a thru hiker who was with him on the attempt over 
Forrester pass  and recall being told that he had hiking poles instead of 
an ice axe.

In short, no I don't think it is likely.


--
Brick Robbins                       mailto:brick@fastpack.com