Countdown Beijing: China Blocks Everest Climbs Ahead of Olympic Torch Relay

Weather at Mt. Everest will determine the date of the torch ascent to the summit. (Getty Images)Mt. Everest Closes Ahead of Torch Relay As preparations move ahead for the Olympic Torch Relay to climb Mt. Everest, China is refusing to issue permits for climbers on its side of the mountain until after May 10. A letter to mountaineering companies mentions “heavy climbing activities” as the reason, not the torch relay. An exact date for the ascent of the flame to the top of the world's tallest mountain is not set, as the climb will be subject to weather conditions. While…