On March 25th The British American Lightweight Everest 2001 Expedition departs for Mount Everest, where this small team of four climbers will attempt to climb the North Col to Northeast Ridge route. Without the support of Sherpas, the team will climb from Advanced Base Camp on the East Rongbuk Glacier up the mountain, establishing camps, and eventually making a bid for the summit.

By aspiring to overcome one of the most hostile environments on earth, the team will rely on the skills developed through their personal experiences in the mountains. But more importantly, each will have to reach deep within themselves to find the strength, dedication, and sheer determination required to work as a team to reach such heights. Although climbing Everest is a difficult and dangerous proposition, the challenge of living and working under such extreme conditions, in close proximity for extended periods, will place enormous strain on each individual.

It will be a journey to a mountain that has seen its share of triumphs and tragedies, a mountain that has stirred the inner passion of literature’s finest stories, a mountain that represents the ultimate symbol of achievement in human endeavors, and a mountain that in many ways represents the be-all for setting new records. However, this journey is a simple one. It will explore the humanity in climbing this mountain while showcasing the rich climbing history of Mount Everest.

The expedition will use a satellite link to send photos and dispatches back to this Web site. In addition to taking the audience along on this climb, this Web site will give historical, geographical, and cultural information about Mount Everest and — most importantly — what it’s like for this team of four to test their capacity to reach the highest point on earth.

Aside from this Internet program, Media Ventures is producing a documentary detailing the climb and the personal story of each team member.