In memory of Greg Krupa

This attempt is dedicated to Greg Krupa, a fellow runner and mountain-lover, a champion of Ecuador, and a dear friend who passed away in April 2026. Greg believed in what Chaski was building long before many others did — in the athletes, the communities, and the idea that sport could be a force for real change. He showed up for this mission in the way he showed up for everything: with generosity, curiosity, and genuine love for the people and places involved. He is deeply missed.

Raising funds in Greg's honor feels like the right way to carry this climb. Every dollar goes toward the youth athletes and programs he cared about.

NOTE: All funds raised go to support local projects!

The Project

Join professional ultrarunner and high-altitude speed climber Ty Andrews as he takes on one of the most audacious challenges in mountaineering history — to set a new speed record on Mount Everest — to help raise money for the Chaski Foundation's athletic programs in Ecuador and Nepal.

Ty will attempt to run to the summit Everest from Base Camp via the South Side (Nepal) faster than any human in history, relying entirely on his own lungs, legs, and years of high-altitude preparation.

What is the project?

At 8,849 meters, Everest is the highest point on Earth. The current speed record — 22 hours and 29 minutes, set by Marc Batard in 1988 — has stood for over 35 years. Tyler believes he can smash the record, a feat that would shatter the existing record and redefine what's possible in high-altitude human performance.

Why is Ty doing this?

Ty is the co-founder of the Chaski Foundation and a professional mountain athlete who has set over 100 speed records on major peaks around the world, including records on Manaslu and Ama Dablam in the Himalayas. He believes deeply in the power of sport to change lives — a belief Greg shared and helped sustain. This project blends elite performance with community impact, using one athlete's highest ambition as a platform to open doors for the next generation.

Funds raised will directly support youth athletes who lack access to coaching, equipment, and competitive opportunities in Ecuador and Nepal.

Young athletes in Trote Mindo in Ecuador, supported by the Chaski Foundation

Funds raised will directly support youth athletes who lack access to coaching, equipment, and competitive opportunities.

Young athletes compete in a local race in Ecuador, supported by the Chaski Foundation

How can I follow along?

Tyler's attempt is targeted for mid-May, 2026. His progress will be shared via:

All updates and links will be at www.tylercandrews.com/everest
Live GPS tracking via Garmin InReach
Social media updates via @TylerCAndrews and @Chaski.Endurance on Instagram

A feature-length documentary currently in development chronicling the full journey (coming late 2026)

What does the Chaski Foundation do?

The Chaski Foundation is a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to supporting underserved and up-and-coming athletes through grants, scholarships, coaching access, and storytelling projects.

Our work focuses on creating long-term opportunities — not just one-time experiences — for athletes in mountain communities.

A group gathering in Mindo, Ecuador, supported by Chaski Foundation

Is my donation tax-deductible?

Yes. As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit, all donations are tax-deductible, and you will receive a receipt for your records.

What will this fundraiser support?

Funds raised through this project will go directly toward youth athletic programs via the Trote Mindo running group in Mindo, Ecuador, including:

Coaching and mentorship
Athletic shoes and clothing
Training resources
Support for travel to local races and competitions

These programs are rooted in communities where Chaski already has strong, long-standing relationships.

Youth athletes training on the trails of Ecuador with support from Chaski Foundation

Project Himalaya: Run Everest - Speed Record (May 2026)

Join professional ultrarunner and high-altitude speed climber Ty Andrews as he takes on one of the most audacious challenges in mountaineering history!