Piolets d’Or 2012 Results - Two ascents rewarded and a Special Jury Prize

:::: The two winners of the Piolets d’Or 2011 are: K7, West Summit, 6615m, Pakistan Exploration, technicality, minimalist style and commitment characterizes the third ascent of this famous peak in Charakusa valley. The summit of K7 West has been reached by the west face climbing in pure alpine style. The Slovenian team of young enthusiasts used their experience gained on their first expedition in Himlaya. Climbers: Nejc Marcic and Luka Strazar, Slovenia Route name: Voie Dreamers of the golden Caves Route height: 1600m Difficulties declared: A15, M5, A2 Execution: From 6th to 9th September 2011 ---- Saser Kangri II, 7518m, India The ascension of Saser Kangri II - until then remained virgin - is an example of the Exploration and alpine-style committed to high altitude in 2011. By the southwest steep side, 1700 meters high, the climbers reached the summit after four days of climbing and three bivouacs. The technical difficulties of the route are concentrated in the upper part. Climbers: Mark Richey, Steve Swenson et Freddie Wilkinson, Etats Unis Route height: 1700m Difficulties declared: W14, M3 Execution: From 21st to 25th August 2011 :::: The jury also decided to give a special mention to a third ascent: TORRE EGGER, 2850m, Argentine This ascension of the vertical wall overhanging on the south face of Torre Egger, led to the ice climbing in Alpine environment at a higher level. This ephemeral line very creative was succeeded due to the opportunism of the climbers. Climbers: Bjorn-Eivind Aartun et Ole Lied, Norvège Route height: 950m Difficulties declared: M5, 95° Execution: The 25th and 26th December 2011 ::::