This pair planned to attempt the SW ridge of Gasherbrum III but were forced to abort due to strong south-westerly winds. Believing that they might find more success (and shelter from the wind) on the mountain’s north face/ridge, they relocated and made an attempt from this side of the peak. At 7,800m, they came upon a large tower which could not be bypassed and which required more difficult climbing than they were willing to commit to given the altitude and weather. They were therefore forced to retreat. Livingstone notes that the SW ridge of Gasherbrum III is still a viable prospect due to its fairly solid granite composition which contrasts markedly with the rest of the Gasherbrum group.