Gabriel Baicus: The mountains I climb are not made only of rock and ice, but also of dreams and desire

Newsroom 22/03/2022 | 17:32

Romanian climber Gabriel Baicus aims to reach in less than 24 hours two of the highest peaks in the world – Everest and Lhotse. He will undertake this trial in April-May this year and it will represent a first for Romanian climbing history. Those who wish to further support him in this project can do so through the donation platform on the Clubul Alpin Roman website.

BR sat down with Gabriel Baicus for an exclusive interview and found out more about his journey and passion for this sport, his goals and his challenges. It is always good to find people that inspire you and give you a reason to be proud you are Romanian.

By Romanita Oprea

 

How did you discover your passion for climbing?

Born in a picturesque mountain region of Buzau county – Nehoiu – I always called nature, the surrounding hills and forests “home”, nurturing my curiosity and transforming my childhood into a never-ending exploration.

However, it was only when I moved to Spain back in 2010, and discovered the impressive rugged Pyrenees that I emerged in the “climbing universe”. Once I got the taste of adrenaline and was rewarded with breathtaking views up top, I decided to continue with further climbs in the Atlas, European and Japanese Alps, Carpathians and the Himalayas. I have been drawn by the beauty of heights ever since.

 

What do you consider to be so far your biggest success? 

I am deeply grateful for every small achievement in my climbing career, from the moment I geared up for my first hiking trip, all wrapped in excitement and fear for unknown all to way to summiting Manaslu peak (my height record so far – 8.163 m) and proudly waving the Romanian flag on top of one of the 14 highest peaks in the world (thus opening the HIMALAYA 148 wider project).

To me, success is also the journey itself and the wonderful like-minded people I meet along the way who never cease to inspire me. This brings me hope, motivation and desire to encourage others to step out of their comfort zone and live their lives to the fullest.

 

Tell us some details about your expedition: when it will take place, how long it will take, what are the items you will take with you etc.

This year, I set out to climb two peaks over 8,000 m, the first and fourth highest in the world, Everest and Lhotse in less than 24 hours.

The expedition will start in April and it will take around 60 days. A project like this requires a lot of specialized equipment, high-level physical and mental training, but also moments to disconnect and relax, read or have fun with the team.

From my previous expeditions, I learned that Sherpas – who became good friends over the course of time- like “visinata” and Romanian cheese, so I will make sure that I will take them with me.

Last but not least, I will carry a satellite phone with me provided by Garmin, so that I keep it for emergency cases, monitor and broadcast the entire expedition, which would be one of my pilot programmes in cooperation with Ski & Outdoor Magazine.

 

How did you decide to climb both Everest and Lhotse in less than 24 hours and what motivates you? 

My new ambition is to wave the Romanian flag on two peaks – Everest and Lhotse, in 24 hours, this spring. If succeeded, this will represent a premiere in Romania and a milestone in my personal development as an alpinist.

I honestly believe that everyone has the right to dream and, more than that, the right to fulfill their dreams. Just like many alpinists, I have always wanted to climb in the Himalayas. And once I discovered my vocation – coordinate treks and expeditions particularly in Nepal, Tibet and Bhutan – have fueled my desire to climb Mount Everest, the highest peak on the planet and one of the most spectacular of all. And, to make it more challenging, I decided to organize a more demanding expedition, aiming to summit the first and fourth highest peaks in the world, in less than 24 hours.

What are the main challenges, both physical and mental?

First of all, it’s about the physical challenges that this expedition is mainly about (being in the death zone, acclimatizing your body properly for the lack of oxygen). However, on a deeper level, you realize that it is much more than that. Up there, the sky is not the limit, the mind is, which is why you need to be mentally strong at all times. Most importantly, the ultimate goal is not reaching the top of the mountain, but getting safely back home.

What do you think it will represent for Romania if you reach your expedition goal?

Nature conservation, respect for the mountains and living an active, healthy and balanced lifestyle are sadly often overlooked. Through the expedition, I want to pass along an important message regarding the protection of nature and to emphasize the importance of reconnecting with the natural world. We need peace of mind now, more than ever, and reinforce a “leave no trace but your footprints” mindset to be passed on from one generation to another.

 

Why do you believe that Romanians don’t practice sports as much as other nations do?

This topic is directly connected to mindset and habits. Historically speaking, we haven’t had too much interest in sports. In this respect, this expedition is not only about myself, as an individual, but also about Romanian alpinism in general. I encourage people to practice sports as part of a balanced lifestyle routine. Most of all, we shouldn’t necessarily focus on competing with others, but constantly strive to become the best version of ourselves.

 

So far, what has been the most difficult goal you set for yourself and why?

The many expeditions I have participated in or coordinated over time have fueled my desire to climb Mount Everest, but they have also motivated me to create the HIMALAYA 148 project.

HIMALAYA 148 project – climbing the world’s 14 highest peaks over the next years – is the ultimate goal an alpinist can set for themselves. The mountains I climb they are not only made of rock and ice, but also of dreams and desire.

Who is supporting you in this project?

My project “Two peaks in 24 hours” that will take place this spring in Nepal is supported by several organizations that believe in my bold dream: from the town hall of my hometown Nehoiu, Club Alpin Roman (Romanian Alpine Club), Ski & Outdoor Magazine, Romania Pitoreasca, organizers of mountain-related events (Alpin Film Festival), a communication agency (Oxygen), media (Radio Brasov), companies such as Garmin, and all the way to the dear people in my life. I am very grateful for their support.

In the current uncertain context, how do you find and keep your motivation and what advice do you have for others?

Now that it seems a nightmare has passed (Covid pandemic), another one has started. It is heartbreaking to see what is happening these days just across the Romanian borders. While I remain supportive, I also need to remind myself of the journey I have embarked on together with its risks and challenges. It is highly important to keep my focus – both physical and mental – and commitment towards my goal. I picture myself waving the peace flag on the roof of the world and hope we will get back to a normal life.

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