The 45th anniversary commemorates Hristo Prodanov’s ascent of Lhotse, the world’s fourth-highest peak at 8,516 meters. On April 30, 1981, Prodanov became the first Bulgarian to summit an eight-thousander and the fourth person globally to reach the peak without supplemental oxygen. The ascent was part of the “Himalayas 81” expedition, which aimed to mark the 1,300th anniversary of the Bulgarian State.
The team navigated a difficult trek, crossing the challenging Khumbu Icefall before establishing intermediate camps up to Camp 4, situated in the high-altitude “death zone.”
Due to changing conditions, a specialized group, including Prodanov, was selected for the final push. After acclimatization, the decisive assault began at 7 a.m. on April 30.
Prodanov proceeded first, unsupported by oxygen. Following difficult navigation through deteriorating weather, including strong winds and heavy snowfall, Prodanov reached the summit ridge. He successfully traversed a challenging rock and ice section, finally stepping onto the summit plateau at 1:55 p.m.
At the summit, Prodanov raised the Bulgarian flag and left mementos. Despite poor radio communication, he successfully reported his achievement before beginning the descent. The descent proved arduous, marked by dangerous obstacles.
His teammates eventually joined him in the process, and by May 2, all members of the expedition safely returned to base camp. Prodanov’s achievement remains a significant milestone in Bulgarian mountaineering history.
Topics: #bulgarian #prodanov #first
