We were rooting for Joe’s successful completion of the trip. After all, it would mark the culmination of years of preparation and dedication. And, yes, we could also vividly imagine the awe-inspiring photograph of him holding an XS Summit Blast aloft.

But it simply wasn’t to be. Especially perilous conditions on Mount Everest have prompted his expedition leader to halt the effort (click here for his explanation). Through no shortcoming on his part, Joe’s moment atop Mount Everest will simply have to wait.

As IBOs experience every day, sometimes there are circumstances beyond our control. We applaud Joe and his cohorts for the progress they did make. Over the course of several weeks, they put themselves in a position to succeed—it was no simple feat.

In the grand scheme, it may not be a matter of if, but when Joe stands atop the world’s foremost summit. We certainly hope that we can re-engage with him in the future as an XS Ambassador.

Meantime, we are excited about the enthusiastic response that XS Nation has already given to the new XS Summit Blast option. Clearly, many of you are bringing your own 12 oz. Summit cans to those meaningful spots in your life—whether it’s a mountain peak or any other location—and sharing it with others.