Welcome to the website of the Irish K2 Expedition 2005

History in the making....

K2 has long been described as the ‘mountaineer’s mountain’. It lies in North Eastern Pakistan on the Pakistani / Tibetan border and despite being slightly lower than Mount Everest, at 8,611m, the technical nature of climbing that is required on this peak is seen as far more demanding.

K2 has never been climbed by an Irishman and despite his best efforts last year Terence ‘Banjo’ Bannon reached within 400m but was forced to turn back due to bad weather. This year he is back at K2 for another attempt and possibly become the first Irishman to stand on the summit of the second highest mountain in the world!

From Newry in County Down, Banjo has been mountaineering for over 20 years, culminating in his biggest achievement to date when in 2003 he reached the summit of Mount Everest. Banjo may be joined this year by Mick Murphy from Co.Cork and Gerard McDonnell from Co.Limerick, but if not he will be climbing alpine style with a solo Polish climber he met at Base Camp. Mick and Gerard will be making their attempt following a successful summit of Broad Peak whilst on the FTA Broad Peak/K2 Expedition.

Amongst the world of mountain climbers and adventure seekers; K2 is seen as the virtual God of the mountains; with those who successfully summit viewed in equally high esteem. The steep and icy terrain of this peak, coupled with its vicious and often unpredictable weather makes it the ULTIMATE challenge in the realm of climbing and adventure sport.

Find out more about the expedition and follow the progress of the Irish climbers on this site...