They are/were great experiences

[Sitifan]

My friend, Jack, and I have known each other for two years. We have many common interests. We go mountain climbing together. So far, we have climbed Mt. Jade and Mt. Ali together. They ___ great experiences.

Which word should I use to fill in the above blank, are or were?
_________________
Thank you very much for your reply.

[Yankee]

Hi Sitifan

I'd use "were" in that particular context. In other words, "they" would refer to the two specifically mentioned mountain climbs which took place in the past -- two past events.
.