site.btaMay 8, 1984: Bulgarian Mountaineers Ivan Vulchev, Metodi Savov, Kiril Doskov and Nikolai Petkov Climb Mt. Everest

On May 8, 1984, Bulgarian mountaineers Ivan Vulchev, Metodi Savov, Kiril Doskov and Nikolai Petkov climbed Mount Everest (8,848 m).

It was the second summit bid, the first being by Hristo Prodanov.

Only several days prior, on April 20, 1984, Prodanov became the first Bulgarian to summit Everest, reaching the peak solo and without supplemental oxygen. On his way down, he was caught in worsening weather conditions and was forced to spend the night at high altitude without proper shelter or equipment. He was later found dead at approximately 8,700 meters.

On May 8, Ivan Valchev and Metodi Savov reached the summit via the West Ridge. They were unable to descend immediately due to deteriorating weather and spent a night at around 8,750 meters without supplemental oxygen - a rare and perilous occurrence at such high altitudes. The following day, Nikolai Petkov and Kiril Doskov ascended via the Southeast Ridge, providing assistance to Valchev and Savov and facilitating their safe descent.

This coordinated effort marked the first successful traverse of Everest, ascending via the West Ridge and descending via the Southeast Ridge. The expedition's achievement remains unmatched to this day.

The 1984 Everest expedition is considered one of Bulgaria's most significant sporting accomplishments.