Speed Ascent on the Longest Route on Aconcagua
- Mia Farrow
- Mar 20
- 27 min read
Updated: 7 hours ago
"It's the possibility of a dream come true that makes life interesting." - Paulo Coelho
110km on the longest route on Aconcagua, in my running shoes, with a light backpack, and a heart full of passion for adventure.
Many describe this is a tale of courage and perseverance.
For me, it was learning and re-learning how to be myself - as a person, a mother, and a wife. Giving myself a massive goal that will continue to challenge me, inspire me and keep me growing. Pushing myself to the edge of impossible.
WHY ACONCAGUA360
People often ask, 'Why Aconcagua360?'
Here's a brief insight into this extensive journey..
Firstly, my last high-altitude climb and "speed ascent" was at nearly 6000 metres, so ~7000 metres was a natural progression.
Secondly, the fact that only two other women have completed Aconcagua360 intrigued me. The prospect of becoming the third woman to accomplish this feet was incredibly appealing
Finally, while one might say my Aconcagua360 journey began five years ago with my first successful summit on Aconcagua, in truth, I have been unknowingly preparing for this adventure my entire life.
SERBIA
I was raised in a small town in a one-bedroom house with a family of five in what was once Yugoslavia, now Serbia. Born into a family of hikers and mountaineers, I aspired to climb numerous mountain peaks across the globe.
We were a part of the local mountaineering club, where I first heard of Aconcagua. I was only twelve years old. And Aconcagua expedition seemed almost as dreamy as visiting Space today. A very distant and costly dream.
My siblings and I hiking as a family, every Sunday. Small village where I was born.
Mama and dad, hiking together since 1980's... Mama still guides at 72 yo., in a local National Park.
Life in Serbia was full of challenges. Throughout my teens, my home-country got hit with many civil wars. The most impactful one in 1999. We watched my home town burn in flames each day, fearing for our future. All infrastructure was destroyed... My life as a law school student seemed ruined.
After spending three months in a bomb-shelter, where I celebrated my 21st birthday, I fled to Hungary. From there, I left to the U.S., as an exchange student.
With just $7 in my pocket, I began a new life on a new continent, all alone.
CALIFORNIA "In amongst all the difficulty lied opportunity"
Life in California was again full of challenges, as I put myself through school.
I worked two part-time jobs while in school so I could send money home.
After several challenging years, I graduated from college with honours and secured a high-paying position in investment banking. Several good mentors helped me navigate my busy 20's and keep me growing and moving forward.
Joining a running group PCTR (Pacific Coast Trail Runs) was good for me and to me.
This led to many trail events, many marathons, and many wonderful friendships.
GAP YEAR AND THE MAGIC OF NEPAL
Running marathons around the world was a healthy counterbalance to my demanding career in mergers and acquisitions, investment banking.
However, in order to really experience some of my dream-places, I needed and wanted more than just a 'long weekend' to adventure.
So, in 2009., I decided to take a gap year, traveling the world all alone, climbing mountains and running marathons.
One of my favourite and possibly life altering trips was to the Himalayas, an absolute dream, where I ran the Everest Marathon 42km, starting in the Base Camp at 5684 metres.
We had a lovely group of over a hundred international runners. Not knowingly, we would have another hundred Nepali runners join us on the day of the event.
I did well, finishing fifth overall behind four Nepali women, and first as an International female runner. I was 31.
The Himalayas are truly something else, overpowering and alluring, mystical and inviting. Pure magic.
Everest marathon brought another incredible group of friendships and a reunion at Boston marathon a year later. Hans, Bev, Bill, Glenn, Joan, Nathan, etc.
Hans would later join me on Aconcagua...
Mt Everest Marathon 2009.
KILIMANJARO AND EAST AFRICA
After the Everest Base Camp experience, I decided to climb Kilimanjaro 5985 metres via Umbwe route, the shortest and steepest route. My guide Adam suggested we do it in a day given I was fit. I said okay.
Back in 2009, I was not aware of any speed ascents, nor did I have a sports watch to track our efforts, but Adam and I successfully summited Kili in a day, receiving a nice certificate at the end.
We celebrated with other climbers and I decided to tour Africa for another two months, visiting Kenya, Uganda, Tanzania, and Zanzibar.
Kilimanjaro July 2009.
PLANNING ACONCAGUA
What was the natural step up from Kilimanjaro at nearly 6000 metres?
Well, I was eyeing my 7000 metres challenge :) aka Aconcagua 6962 m in Argentina.
Aconcagua is the second tallest of the seven summits.
While in Nepal, I met a triathlete from Switzerland who recommended Julian Insarralde for Aconcagua. Julian and I met virtually and started planning my climb for January 2010.
Well, after spending twelve months traveling the world during a gap year, visiting more than 23 countries, climbing numerous mountains, and running seven marathons, I chose to return home and postpone my Aconcagua climb to a different season.
"Another time" turned into a decade.
TIME OF TRANSITION AND MEETING MY GUY
After spending a year living in DallasTX where I continued to work in finance, swim, bike, run (compete in triathlons), and climb mountains in Colorado, I decided to participate in a 20 KM swim race in Maui. I was not a swimmer and this was a big challenge for me. Not to mention facing the fear of swimming in a shark infested place.
The annual Maui Channel swim race introduced me to my husband, Guy, who was part of the winning Australian team. After a year of long-distance dating, I chose to relocate to Sydney so we could begin our life together. We both wanted a family, and soon we were blessed with three daughters.
Motherhood put many hobbies and work on pause, while Guy thrived at work and in swimming competitions. Nonetheless, we both enjoyed parenting.
As soon as my girls were old enough to start school, I decided to get back to running and mountaineering.
ACONCAGUA DREAMING
Julian Insarralde and I kept in contact all these years and we finally started planning my trip to Argentina in 2019. I was 41 at this point.
Our seven day expedition to the Summit in January 2020. on the Normal route was a success. Quick summary outlined here
10 years after we originally planned the climb - Julian and I stood on top of Aconcagua together with Hans, my friend from San Francisco and the Everest marathon trip!
We all celebrated Hans' 80th birthday.
Needless to say, Hans was not your typical 80 year old.
Celebrating Hans and his 80th birthday. with Julian Insarralde and Team: Guido, Renzo, and Federico
My confidence was pretty high after the expedition, so I decided to rest for three days and then attempt Aconcagua360 unassisted.
Julian suggested Grajales Expeditions as my support company.
Aconcagua360 is the longest route on Aconcagua, circumnavigating the entire mountain including the summit. ~110km long.
The elevation chart is below.
MY FIRST UNASSISTED ACONCAGUA360 ATTEMPT IN JANUARY 2020.
Plan: 7 day expedition Normal side with Julian Insarralde 2 wks in Argentina total.
Coach: Matty Abel, running coach.
Approach: See how I respond to high altitude, familiarise myself with the route.
Outcome: Expedition to Summit successful. And, Aconcagua360 unassisted attempt ended on the traverse, 350m before the summit.
It was a good a first effort for someone who had only spent ten days at high altitude, coming from sea level. And only three months of training / prep time before the trip.
(after 8 years of "maternity leave")
Not enough.
I ended up at 6555 m unassisted and supported by Grajales Expeditions.
That was the end of my first season on Aconcagua and I was hooked!
IDENTIFY WHERE YOU ARE AND WHERE YOU NEEDED TO BE
One critical skill for big projects like Aconcagua360 speed ascent, is the ability to be honest with yourself.
You've got to be able to identify things you needed to work on in order to succeed.
This applied to me as well as to my little family. Because in order for me to function at my highest level, I needed them functioning at their best as well.
All of this required time and patience, communication and lots of planning.
On the flight back home from Argentina, I remember I couldn't stop thinking about attempting again - the training needed, the logistics, getting to know the people on the mountain, forming a team, and getting to know the other side of the mountain so I could figure out my timing etc.
As for my family this meant: coordinating 5 schedules - five of us living together doing different things being at different ages and stages in life.
Kids were at 2, 4, and 6 years old (only the older two in pre-school/school - and one kid at home four days), I was in my early 40's, and my husband in his mid 50's.
My number one priority was keeping everyone healthy, and then ensuring everyone feeling fulfilled with whatever they were doing that year. Growth and harmony - so to speak.
The girls requiring the most attention - with basic connecting and listening, with music, art, drawing, sports, reading books, etc; as they were still developing at a speed of light at that age.
Guy and I mostly required consistency - which proved challenging at times but we managed okay.
ACONCAGUA360 LOGISTICS
For athletes attempting Aconcagua360 speed ascent on Aconcagua, safety standards call for a support from a professional mountain company.
Additionally, one needed a proof of insurance, high altitude (above 4500m) global rescue card, and a written formal application with a fee.
Speed ascents could be executed "Assisted" (with pacers) or "Unassisted" (Solo).
Both must be supported however.
For supported team, like I mentioned above, Julian and I decided on Grajales Expeditions . Professional, experienced and reliable.
THE WORLD ON PAUSE
Excerpt from the Cumbres Magazine:
COVID-19 kept the world on hold for almost two years.
Mia recalls that time: “This was a good opportunity to build my endurance and strength, since I had just started running again. And we all know that building endurance takes years.”
Aconcagua 360° still seemed like a very interesting and challenging project, exactly what she needed to stay motivated and inspired during those particular couple of years.
2020.MEETING ALLIE PEPPER - NEW SKILLS AND ICY SMILES
The best part of 2020. is that I got to explore more of Australia and got to add new skills - ice climbing. Who would have thought this was Blue Lake near Mt Kosciusko in Australia (in pictures below)!
A refresher mountaineering course with ice-climbing by the one and only Aussie trail-blazer, high altitude mountaineer Allie Pepper. It was awesome.
Do what you can with what you've got where you are.
2021. TRACK, SPEED AND INJURIES
Another year of COVID, no travels and hanging around Australia. I decided to give track running a crack and work on my speed (or whatever was left of it at 43).
I never got to run track as a kid because my home town never had a track . Instead, I ran with my dad on grass fields and played basketball, tennis, and soccer.
Three months of track sessions, lots of extra strength and even speed specific lessons resulted in my 5k track time of 21 min and six months of injury (3.5 cm hammy tear). Complete overload. And a very good lesson. Moderation is key, especially at 43.
I really enjoyed track and always thought the 5k was the ideal challenge for me. Unfortunately, I never got the opportunity to focus on it long enough. Perhaps one day...
The best part of 2021 was starting my Kettlebells journey with Pete, a certified StrongFirst instructor in Sydney. Pete helped heal my hammy tear and get me into some fundamental StrongFirst protocols. It was awesome.
I was growing.
2022. THE YEAR OF LOSS AND CHALLENGES AND NEW FRIENDSHIPS
The beginning of 2022 brought Derek Toshner from the U.S. as my head coach for Aconcagua, as my teammate on Aconcagua and soon to become one of my good friends.
A summary of our work together is outlined here
Derek was instrumental in helping me stay focused and strong - literally and figuratively during some of the hardest months that were about to unfold.
A few months into our training for Aconcagua, I received a phone call from my mother in Serbia, informing me that my father had only a few days left to live..
Dad was my greatest supporter and my high-altitude adventure buddy. We loved planning my trips together.
I was utterly shocked and couldn't believe it. My dad was among the fittest men alive. How could this happen? Mom explained it was stage 4 cancer, and the doctors had limited options.
In late May, I flew to Europe to visit my dad and say my good byes. We reminisced about the marathons and trips we shared, his track races in his 60s, and his excitement about my return to Argentina for another attempt.
On June 22, 2022, dad passed away.
Last hug with my dad, photo on the right, end of May 2022.
A few weeks later, my husband snapped his Achilles, underwent surgery, and was on bed rest for months. For a highly competitive swimmer - this was a long time out of the pool.
In September, I was finally able to visit my mother and sister. During that time, I also had the chance to pay my respects at my father's grave in the cemetery back home in Serbia.
The highlight of this trip was spending a week with my mother in Slovenia, which was a healing experience for both of us.
Additionally, I participated in my first SkyRace by UTMB in the Julian Alps 30 KM, and the following day I climbed Mt Triglav Solo.
The end of November presented additional challenges when my husband contracted COVID, just a week before my early December trip.
Unfortunately, during this week, my father-in-law passed away, leaving my husband emotionally unavailable throughout my trip in Argentina.
My kids were still relatively young and demanding, and it added another layer of stress for everyone.
The trip to Aconcagua is a huge undertaking and was planned a year in advance and there was no turning back for me.
I packed my bags and flew to Argentina on December 5th.
MY SECOND ACONCAGUA TRIP - DECEMBER 2022
Plan: 18 day expedition on the Vacas side via 360 route. 5 wks in Argentina.
Training: Strength plan with StrongFirst, Coach Derek Toshner link
Approach: Familiarise myself with the 360 route, acclimatise for 3 weeks, attempt a few short speed ascents and then attempt 360.
Outcome: Summit Expedition was successful. No speed ascents possible due to weather.
Well, my second Aconcagua360 attempt sort of never really happened.
I never got that safe weather window needed to attempt the 360. Aconcagua was hit with snow storms, small avalanches near the summit, and strong winds.
It was extremely disappointing after such intense year of training and prep, and also the time it took to be away from home.
By this time, I had been in Argentina for almost five weeks - 360 expedition link
During our successful summit expedition on the 360, I had the opportunity to meet Rex Taylor and his family. Rex's calm demeanor was very reminiscent of my father.
A year later, Rex and his wife Annie would re-enter my life, visiting my family in Australia..
Successful Summit on the 360 route Xmas eve 2022
With only three days to go before my return flight home, and after consulting with Fernando Grajales, we decided it was not the right time to do any speed ascents. The mountain seemed cold and angry.
I try not to get too hung up on the 'failures' in life, instead I try to look for silver linings, turning obstacles into opportunities.
Growing up, my basketball coach called this: Learn how to lose.
Reframe, revise. Keep it informational, not personal. Move on.
With only a few days before my flight home, I decided to test the approach from the Vacas gate to Basecamp Argentina and get a better understanding of the timing between the camps in the Valley.
Vacas side is 42km long with a glacier river crossing and lots of boulders and rocks.
It is like an obstacle course, marathon length, that can really test you mentally and physically.
Cabeza, one of Grajales guides, and I covered it together under the full moon, crossing the glacier river around 9 PM which was an adventure in itself, and on only one headlamp... long story.
This proved a worthy exercise - lots of failures on this stretch of the road, and our timing completely off from what I envisioned... It was a good lesson for my next attempt.
And it all led to more confidence building going forward.
And Yes - I could have extended my weeks in Argentina. However, considering that Guy and I had numerous commitments before my trip and our 10-year anniversary coming up on January 23rd, I opted to return home.
The mountain will always be there.
GIVE IT TIME...
"One can choose to go back toward safety or forward toward growth."
It only took a couple of weeks of proper rest and being back to a simple routine of life for me to start day-dreaming about Aconcagua again.
After a few meetings with some of my coaches and mentors, I came up with a training plan and a new approach for my 2025 Aconcagua attempt.
My number one priority was continuing with strength work and then continuing to work on my endurance fitness. Both required time, consistency, and good programming.
I was very happy to be getting into my sixth year of running and strength training, and very lucky to meet Conor my future personal training who designed an outstanding program for me.
CHALLENGES AT HIGH-ALTITUDE
One of the biggest challenges with regards to high altitude - is that the longer you stay at high altitude the better you will feel / acclimatise, however, the less fit you could become.
Good strength and power foundation is critical as it doesn't decline nearly as fast as one's aerobic fitness. However, the stronger your aerobic fitness, the better sub-optimal levels will be :) If you are a runner, think about your fitness (and V02 max) after 6-8 weeks of no running. So having a solid base is beneficial.
One of my favourite quotes by Fernando Grajales is: "Get as fit as possible for high altitude. Do it all - bike, swim, run, lift weights, whatever it takes. You need it all. Nobody got to the summit saying they are too fit!"
Another challenge for projects like Aconcagua360 is getting to know the route really well so you can conserve mental and physical energy.
Self-navigating in places where the path is not as obvious and where high altitude can affect your cognition, can be a huge challenge.
This, of course, can be time consuming as well as financially draining (numerous expeditions on one of the Seven summits).
Note: One permit ($900 US) will give you only 21 days on the mountain. Should you need more time to acclimatise and train, you would need an extra park permit. Plus, you need an additional park permit for the speed ascent attempt. Add flights, food, logistics, and room and board outside the park and this becomes a highly expensive adventure.
FINDING HARMONY & ENJOYING FAMILY TIME
2023 was a wonderful year of family travels and adventures.
From skiing and hiking in New Zealand, to swimming and fishing on secluded islands, to hiking and snorkeling on Lord Howe Island, to relaxing on Kangaoo Island, to so many amazing camping trips in the Blue Mountains - we worked as a team and worked on restoring harmony in 2023.
It was powerful and beautiful. #family
I managed to complete a run up Mt Gower on Lord Howe Island, Ultra-Trail Kosciusko 50km, climb but not summit Mt Aspiring in New Zealand, and add new/old skills, like crossing the glacier and enjoy rock-climbing.
And, in January 2024, we had Rex and Annie visiting - Aconcagua reunion in Australia and New Zealand!
(Remember: Rex and I summited Aconcagua Christmas 2022; Annie was in the Basecamp Mulas) .
LUCKY 2024 - KEEP GROWING (and GOING)
They say: Luck is when opportunity meets preparation, and I feel like I got very lucky in 2024 leading to my Aconcagua360 challenge.
Dots were starting to connect, and things were starting to align.
I met my personal trainer Conor Houlihan in March of 2024.
Conor came up with a solid plyo, strength, power and muscular endurance plan and over the next 40 weeks, we worked exceptionally well as a team not skipping a session.
A quick summary of our work is summarised here.
We trained in a simulated altitude gym at 3000m (not pressurised).
I eventually added 30min on the bike post strength sessions and 30min of sauna time.
In addition to Conor, my mentor and coach Martin Zhor, from the Uphill Athlete, helped me come up with a run-training schedule, the hypoxic tent prep, endurance nutrition, high altitude fuel, and a specific plan while training on Aconcagua.
2024 was brilliant. Focus, commitment, execution, people.
I loved every minute of it. #lucky
Training with Conor Houlihan in a simulated altitude gym at 3000m in Sydney, 2024.
ACONCAGUA360 - FEBRUARY 2025.
"Do the best you can until you know better. Then, do better."
Plan: solo training on Aconcagua on the Normal side, no expeditions.
Training: Coach Conor Houlihan, strength, muscular endurance. link
Strategy & Tactics: Coach & Mentor, Martin Zhor, Uphill Athlete
Approach: Hypoxic tent at home summary link The longest time in Argentina, 6 weeks.
Outcome: Aconcagua360 Completed.
Finally, after several years of training and prep, I had the year I always wanted:
to train all by myself (I believed this was required for Solo attempts), use my pre-acclimatisation time on specific speed ascents rather than on a lengthy and slow expedition, and get to know porters, guides and staff at Grajales. They would be my Team on and off the mountain.
The best surprise was having Fernando Grajales in the basecamp for a few days - Fernando grew up on Aconcagua and his knowledge of the mountain, routes, gear and timing was invaluable.
I also met Martin Erroz, one of Mendoza's best endurance athletes and a former porter and guide on Aconcagua, who was preparing for a huge project himself.
I was excited for this year of specific training on the mountain. Finally.
Similar to past years, I followed a five-day pre-acclimatization plan in Las Cuevas at an altitude of 3200m, located at Portezuelo del Viento, just outside the Aconcagua National Park.
And after a few hikes and short runs with Martin Erroz who I met in Las Cuevas, I entered Aconcagua by myself and went straight to Basecamp Mulas 4200 metres.
Here, I trained according to the schedule Martin Zhor prepared. It worked really well for me.
This is the first time I had an actual action-plan while on the mountain pre-acclimatising.
Working with coaches who have experience and knowledge of high altitude is key.
Everything was going according to plan except for the weather forecast, cold, wet and windy, which comes with the territory.
Because it snowed a lot, it made it harder to move past 6000 metres in my goretex running shoes.
So my pre-acclimatisation prep was somewhat limited.
My summit ended up at 6100 metres instead of 6960 metres.
Renting a pair of double boots was tempting but not ideal as I didn't want to carry more than 5kg in my running pack (note: double boots weight 2kg+) The sole of the boots is also very stiff and makes it difficult to move fast. They do keep your feet safe from frost bite.
Decisions, decisions.
After 20 days on Aconcagua, I decided it was time to walk out of the park and get some rest at lower altitude, and wait for my weather window.
With : Julian, Benji, Cabeza, Diego, and many new mountain friends - and beautiful camp Mulas & Camp 2 sunsets
It was February 1. I had less than two weeks left in Argentina, marking February 10 as my last possible day for the attempt.
My Flight back home was on the 13th. and the seasons finished on the 20th.
9 days and counting...
I regrouped and rested in Las Cuevas at 3200 metres.
After speaking with Tyson from the Snowstack, a professional forecaster, I realised I had 4-5 days of good weather ahead of me. After that, the weather would turn to snow-storms again and it looked terrible for the next two weeks, which was practically the end of the season on Aconcagua.
We both concluded it was now or never for this season. The excitement was real.
Now, the question was Which day to pick and Why.
The 5th of February looked good but had a lot of rain forecasted on the back of 36 hours.
The 7th of February seemed to be the same.
And then there was the 9th of February as a possibility but still a few days away which made everyone nervous.
A lot can happen in 24-72 hours on Aconcagua.
I wanted two to three days of dry weather, low winds, warmer temps in the high camps so I could summit in my running shoes, and less water in the river (less mud in the valley)...
With a side of a lottery win pretty please! haha
FEBRUARY 5, 2025. ATTEMPT #1
"We never regret the things that we do, only the ones that we never have the courage to pursue"
I decided to start on the 5th, thinking if something goes wrong, I could still go on the 9th.
After checking in with the rangers at Horcones gate, I was ready to leave at 5 PM.
My schedule was pretty conservative moving up: six hours to Camp Mulas, one hour transition, and up to four hours to Camp 2, again an hour or so to transition and change clothes, and two hours to Berlin, and so on.
Things were tracking okay until I reached Camp 2 by 3:15 AM. Grajales staff was exceptional. Laura's experience with adventure athletes was valuable and very much appreciated! She transitioned me in Base Camp having all my gear and clothes and food layed out for me.... and she sent me in good spirits up to Camp 2.
In Camp 2, I regrouped, put my micro crampons on, had some hot soup, added a bunch of hot warmers to my hands and feet, and shut my eyes for 10min. Cabeza and Benji took care of my hot water, gear and food, and their positive attitude was gold! I couldn't havea sked for better teammates!
The only downside to "a bit of comfort in a heated tent" at Camp 2 was that I was starting to fade a little ... all that warmth and laughter with Cabe made me want to stay longer and take a little nap.
I gave myself a 5 min warning and managed to leave the tent all bundled up and ready for higher camps.
Now, the biggest mistake I made after Camp 2 was: to go to Camp Berlin.
In theory, this was a more direct route and possibly better, BUT this is not the route I practiced in training.
I did't know what to expect and couldn't visualise where I was going.
The route I practiced was Camp 2 to Camp 3.
It was still bitter cold at this point, and dark, and I was slowing down.
Temps were around -15 C and no sun.
I arrived to Camp Berlin by 8:15 AM.
I got a little frustrated here as I could not find the path to higher camps. So I stopped to regroup. A girl named Carla came out of one of the tents and suggested she shows me the way. She was going up to meet with her team members.
The snow was knee deep with ice underneath, and my micro crampons didn't work that well. Nor did my mind. I struggled to see myself reaching Indepedencia hut.
And, at 6200 metres, I stopped. By the time I reached 6200 metres, it was close to 10 AM.
I completely lost focus.
After 17 hours of pushing all night to that altitude, I started doubted my strength and skills to continue in snow and on ice, with only micro crampons on and running shoes.
I worried about slipping and sliding off the path and I simply could not make myself move another step forward. I sat down and decided to call it quits.
That was it.
It took me seven hours to come down to Basecamp Mulas.
40 km covered. 3500 metres of elevation.
Long 17 hours.
As soon as I got to BC, I saw Laura, the camp manager and friend, and I burst into tears.
Laura helped me unpack, change clothes and set me up in one of the domes for dinner.
The moment I finished dinner I felt so much better and the general chatter among me and the several teams in BC started. Everyone was curious as to what happened and if I was going to go again. And the support I received from everyone in the camp, especially women, was motivating.
It didn't take long for me to realise I was feeling really good again.
I regained my focus and energy, and I said I wanted to attempt again.
Basecamp was brimming with positive energy! I'm grateful to have met so many amazing climbers who motivated me to try again.
Forever grateful to this team that inspired me to go again!
The first phone-call that evening was to Guy, my husband, who said "Go Again." He said: "The girls and I are doing great, why don't you go again. Take extra weeks if needed, just go for it."
My second phone-call was with Martin Zhor, my mentor and coach, who encouraged me to go again. Martin is someone I admire, respect and look up to because he has been on Aconcagua, and has accomplished speed records. He understands high altitude and what goes into these attempts physically, mentally, and logistically.
We came up with a new plan and now, all I needed to do is to execute.
Martin said: "This first attempt was actually perfect prep for your final attempt! Just go for it."
I also consulted with Tyson from the Snowstack, who confirmed the weather forecast as favourable, and added YOLO!
I have also shared my intentions of attempting again with a few people who have closely followed my journey and who also had experience summiting Aconcagua - Cheryl Bart, a highly decorated climber and a business woman who's drive and passion I admire! Grateful for your encouragement Cheryl!
And my friend Rex Taylor (we share Aconcagua Xmas 2022 Summit!) who messaged saying: "Awesome! You got this. Stay calm."
Two words that echoed throughout the entire 109 km on the mountain.
Stay Calm.
Manu Bustelo, from Grajales Expeditions, messaged saying: "Awesome Mia, enjoy the journey!" Manu became such a good friend over the years, always positive and encouraging of my goal. Thank you Manu!
My last bit of planning was with Fernando Grajales and the Team in BC as we needed to set up the logistics for both sides of the mountain again envolving every camp and staff people to stay up throughout the night as I kept moving up or down...
This was no small task and I am forever grateful to Fernando Grajales for supporting my goal.
As much as this was a solo challenge, it was a huge group effort. It takes a village...!
At this point, I had one day to sleep and recover, and one day to restock my food supplies, mentally regroup, and revisit my schedule..
Instead of hiking out of the park, 25 km, I decided to save my legs and take a seven-minute helicopter flight to the start line.
Remember, I had 110 km ahead of me.
Stay calm... also meant - turn off the noise, shut off all electronics, and stay in the moment. My phone was off. Music was off. I was quiet, (a little tired) and calm.
FEBRUARY 9, 2025. GRIT COURAGE AND PASSION - ACONCAGUA360 COMPLETED
I started at 3 PM at Horcones gate shortly after I said 'good-bye and see you at Vacas Gate' to Martin Erroz.
The approach to Base Camp Mulas was similar to my first attempt, conservative effort. Pushing fast to higher camps carries the risk of developing altitude sickness.
The moment I reached BC Mulas, it started to rain, then to hail, and then to snow. It never hails at BC!
I decided to wait for the storm to pass, some 90 minutes, so I could continue.
There was no point getting soaked wet moving into -20 C and possibly ending the trip due to hypothermia.
The rain stopped around 11 PM and I was out the door, pushing to Camp 2.
Once I reached C2, the rest of the climb was all a bit of a blur. All I know is that I went through C3 and not Berlin and somehow finally made it to Indepedencia hut by 9 AM. I was happy!
Several groups were resting there and preparing for the Traversia, the Cave, and ultimately the Summit. Everyone was in great spirits!
On the traverse, we all got hit by more snow and extremely violent gusts of wind, typical on this particular stretch. Climbers kept stopping to adjust their gear, catch their breath, find their step and energy to move forward.
Arriving to the cave is always re-energising in a way as you can see the summit from this point. It's a steep and somewhat technical 100m from here.
The sun was so nice and warm finally! And all I remember is being extremely hungry at this point. Lucky, I had one guide offer me two sandwiches after I had shared a full canister of pringles with Fede.
Now, as soon as we all started moving up towards the Summit, some 50 metres ahead was a man rolling around on the ground, foaming and mumbling. A woman was sitting close by crying and asking for help. It took me a few slow seconds to realise she was speaking Serbian. By the time I approached her, Fede, Grajales Expedition porter and guide, already started CPR on the gentleman on the ground. Four shots later, and wrapped in a safety bag, the man was safe and now waiting for the medical group to arrive. This could take 6-8 hours as the group was going on foot, coming from 5500 metres altitude.
Note: Helicopters do not fly above 5500 metres.
Finally on February 10 at 2:20 PM I stood on the Summit of Aconcagua 6962 metres, after 23 hours of pushing from the Horcones gate (2700 metres) the day before.
Standing on the summit was surreal! I tried to capture a short video ...
Summit Success
After summiting, I still had 80 KM to the finish line.
It was very long and slippery three hours back to Camp 3 with plenty of stopping and translating between the Serbian Team members asking about Zelimir and also the medical staff that was climbing up...
I had a quick meal with Fede at Camp 3, followed by another bowl of rice and chicken prepared by the Serbians. At 6:20 PM, I finally set out for Basecamp Argentina.
High altitude makes me very hungry!! :)
Three hours later, I arrived to Plaza Argentina 4500 metres where I was greeted by Cuca's beautiful smile and warm hospitality.
Quick change of gear, delicious food, and a chat with Matias Sergo who face-timed me! Thank you Maty, I will never forget.
Matias Sergo, Aconcagua's finest porter, set a World Record on Aconcagua360 in 25 hours.
Maty is someone I respect and admire. I still hope to collaborate on a project with him one day. Maty always supported my efforts and wrote letters of encouragement all throughout my training season. It meant the world to me.
By the time I had dinner, changed my clothes and looked at what was ahead of me on the map, it was 10:30 PM. I checked in with Fernando Grajales and wanted to consult about the night time crossings etc. Fernando asked a few key questions and let me decide on how to proceed.
My thinking was this: I have been pushing for about 31 hours by now.
Non stop.
And the World Record time for women stands at ~ 39 hours.
Will I be able to finish 67 KM in less than 8 hours? at night time on a challenging terrain - two glacier river crossings, rock slides, and rocky path to the gate in Vacas (with 25KM on the freeway between the gates)??
My answer was 'No'.
So I decided to get some sleep.
Well, the only regret I had on this trip was - I never set the alarm or communicated with the staff in the camp to wake me up in 3-4 hours. So, I ended up sleeping for 8 hours, waking up at 7:30 AM.
After a moment of mild panic, I downed a cup of coffee and ran out of the camp towards Casa Piedra.
Rex' words "Stay Calm" kept me going as I navigated through some challenging rocky terrain, glacier rivers crossings, constantly changing socks and alternating between two pairs of shoes I had.
Mind you, I have not had one minute of music or any entertainment on this journey other than my own thoughts.
There was no Wi-Fi, and high altitudes depleted batteries rapidly. Battery banks are heavy, so I chose not to carry one.
Arriving to Casa Piedra
10 KM to Casa Piedra,
17 KM to Pampa de Lenas, and
17 KM to Vacas Gate, and
25 KM to the Finish line.
By the time I reached Vacas Gate, my feet were covered with blisters which made for a very painful and long three hour jog to the finish line.
Lucky, I had Martin Erroz there to offer moral support, some fresh food - mostly oranges that I could process, and he also shielded me from many trucks and speedy cars on the freeway as I moved through Penitentes all the way to Horcones.
Thanks to Martin, I also have some special photos and videos of me running the last 25 KM.
I dreamed of this moment for five years!
Describing the emotions at the journey's end is challenging... A mix of joyful tears, exhaustion, and a profound sense of calm enveloped me as I tried to save every moment of this achievement.
Five years of dreaming about this moment.
National park rangers team waited for me at Finish, officially documenting my accomplishment.
Making me the third woman in the world to finish Aconcagua360 in one push.
My team at Portezuelo Del Viento, Pablo and Magali, waited for me for a celebration.
They witnessed my five year struggle to achieve this goal, so it was special to celebrate together.
My flight back to Australia was only a day away... and it made it extremely difficult to leave Argentina after meeting so many passionate individuals, feeling at home surrounded with so many mountain peaks and so much natural beauty.
After 15 hours of flying, I landed at 5 PM in Sydney and hearing my daughters' screaming:
You did it mum, you did it! and feeling their warm hugs was the best reward I could have asked for.
TALE OF COURAGE & PERSEVERANCE
Enormous thanks to my husband and three daughters who supported me every step of the way.
What made it very special this year was that my daughters were old enough to understand what I was trying to accomplish and that they tracked me on InReach, and they could send me messages of love and encouragement every single day.
To have my family to share in celebration is to Double The Joy!
To everyone who has mentored me, coached me, worked with me, inspired me and taught me new things and skills - thank you. To everyone who said "No" to me - thank you.
I wouldn't have made it without you.
Special thanks to my strength coaches: Derek, Mel, Pete and Conor.
I would like to express my gratitude to my first running coach, Matty Abel, who began coaching me and preparing me for this project in October 2019.
Matty opened up a completely new world for me - involving structured run-training, trail running, and navigating long hours in the mountains alone. He eventually became both a mentor and a dear friend.
And special thanks to everyone who took care of my three little girls and Guy while I was away either on training camps or in Argentina, I greatly appreciate you all.
It takes a village!
Huge thanks to Sharri Markson for featuring my story on SkyNews on February 19th. link
My life story is often described as a tale of courage and perseverance. Coincidentally, my dear friend Lauren gifted me Steve Magness' book "Win The Inside Game," where I came across this excerpt on Courage:
It perfectly captures my philosophy of thinking, acting, and living:
"Courage comes from being okay, failing, messing up, or being embarrassed. It comes from aligning your values and beliefs with actions. It means holding genuine connections and values closely and identities a bit more loosely.
It means ceasing to chase status because you realise that external validation is fleeting and that those who genuinely support you will do so, win or lose.
All the while understanding that you will screw up. But what matters most is how you respond.
When you stop acting like you are a middle schooler trying to fit in, you get the freedom to fulfil your potential.
It's your story: own it, update it, sometimes disrupt it, and realise that you get to choose where you go from here.
Choose wisely."
-by Steve Magness
I hope my journey and my positive approach to life continues to inspire my children and my husband, and my many new and old friends in pursuit of their dreams and goals.
The lessons learned from doing hard things are always simple:
Never Give Up and Always Believe !
Life will never be easy and it's up to you to choose your hard. CHOOSE WISELY.
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