What made you turn your remote dream to a goal ?
Ararat is the primary symbol of the Armenian people, especially the diaspora. I wanted to make that symbol a reality.
What was the main barrier between you and your goal?
Taking time off work and planning a trip to the other side of the planet. Physically preparing for a mountaineering adventure given a serious knee injury that I received back in March.
How have you imagined the ascent to Ararat?
Simply a difficult hike.
How it really was?
Arduous. It requires extensive training and preparation. I was not prepared for the drastic change in altitude and the cold weather.
What were your thoughts about when there were few steps left till the top?
Completely overtaken by adrenaline. Lost all feelings of pain and coldness until about 30 minutes on the summit.
Which word would you use to describe yourself when you were standing on the top of Ararat?
Valorous.
What was the most remarkable moment of the ascent?
The combination of making Ararat a reality, my mother’s birthday on the day of the summit, and overcoming a significant physical challenge.
Has your life been changed with 5165?
Regular life has become somewhat boring, though I am much confident in taking risks and overcoming challenges in my work.
What do you see when you look at Ararat now?
Just another mountain…kidding! I see possibility and a call to adventure. I also realize that if you want something, whatever it is, you have to go to that thing and take it. Nobody is going to give it to you.
Are you going to return to Ararat?
Perhaps one day. I plan on climbing more challenging mountains, but maybe I’ll come back with friends and family. Either way, ArmGeo will be the first place I call!
What will you advise the ones, who are still dreaming about Ararat?
Don’t think too much about it, prepare physically, and just do it.
Varderes Barseghyan
Climbing Mount Ararat
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