Climbing Everest

An Italian, German and Irishman are preparing to climb Mt Everest when the local press interview them about what their prospects are of ascending the massive mountain. "I live close to the Alps, so I know what to expect" say the Italian. "I have come prepared for the frostbite and the howling snow storms" says the German. The Irishman pulls a ladder from his kit and says "I hope this is long enough".