The Bishop Cotton School‘s 2023 Expedition team accomplished a remarkable feat by successfully summiting Mentok Kangri, a challenging peak standing at 6270 meters, on August 4th, 2023, at 11.12 am. Led by Expedition Leader Amod Talwalkar, the team’s perseverance, dedication, and teamwork were evident throughout their journey.
The climb presented significant challenges, as the team had undergone months of training and preparation for this endeavor. The climb was deemed the toughest among all previous BCS school expeditions. Despite the difficulties, the team demonstrated their determination and resilience, ultimately reaching the summit.
BCS Director Simon Weale commended the achievement, highlighting the values of dedication, bravery, and teamwork displayed by the expedition members. He drew a parallel to the words of Kennedy, emphasizing the choice to take on challenging tasks not because they are easy, but because they are difficult.
The summiters were Amod Talwalkar (Expedition Leader and BCS Teacher), Krish Garg, Manan Rawat, Kabeer Sood, Daksh Singhmar, and Drishtpreet Singh Grover. While five boys, along with their leader Mr. Amod Talwalkar, successfully reached the summit, two boys were unable to do so due to the severe effects of altitude.
The expedition included six senior boys and two teachers, aged between 17 and 18 years, who spent three days acclimatizing to the altitude levels in the Leh region of Ladakh. They followed a gradual approach, walking at height during the day and sleeping at lower base camps at night.
On the morning of the ascent, the group started their trek at 0315hrs, navigating through challenging rocky and snowy terrain. Despite the thin air, they persevered, with torches guiding their way. The team’s efforts paid off when they triumphantly reached the peak at 11.12 am, after a grueling 15-hour journey. They returned to camp by nearly 6 pm.
Training for the expedition included practicing slow-motion techniques in every aspect of their routine, from walking and eating to drinking water. This approach helped combat the fatigue induced by the high altitude. The achievement was celebrated by the entire BCS community, and the hardworking staff, including Mr. Shubham Lama, who trained alongside the boys, were acknowledged for their contributions to the team’s success.
Mentok Kangri I, situated in the Rupshu region of Ladakh, is a challenging peak rising west of Lake Tsomoriri. The achievement is a testament to the rich history and tradition of Bishop Cotton School, known for nurturing talents and instilling values in its students to prepare them for a global role in the future.
