UK mountaineer Kenton Cool breaks own Mount Everest record.
Renowned British climber Kenton Cool has once again etched his name in the annals of mountaineering history by breaking his own record for the most climbs of Mount Everest.
At 50 years old, Cool has achieved an incredible feat by scaling the world’s highest peak for the 18th time.
His remarkable accomplishment was confirmed by Rakesh Gurung, director of Nepal’s Department of Tourism.
Nepali Guide Kami Rita Sherpa Sets Record Alongside Cool:
Cool’s ascent was matched by Nepali guide Kami Rita Sherpa, who has summited Everest an astonishing 29 times.
Both climbers, leading separate expeditions, tackled the formidable peak, showcasing their unparalleled expertise and dedication to their craft.
Praise from Peers and Industry Experts:
Garrett Madison of Madison Mountaineering hailed Kami Rita’s enduring commitment, describing him as an “amazing guy” whose perseverance knows no bounds.
Madison, who had previously collaborated with Kami Rita on a successful expedition in 2014, attested to the Sherpa’s exceptional skill and character.
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Lukas Furtenbach of Furtenbach Adventures also lauded Cool’s accomplishment, emphasizing his integral role in the Everest guiding industry.
Furtenbach, leading an expedition from the Chinese side of Everest, recognized Cool as an institution within the mountaineering community.
The Iconic Southeast Ridge Route:
Both climbers opted for the Southeast Ridge route, the same path pioneered by Sir Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay during the historic first ascent of Everest in 1953.
Kenton Cool @KentonCool scales #Everest 18th time breaking his own record. More: https://t.co/tZyajdHt6S pic.twitter.com/t9Ajg8uWxm
— Everest Today (@EverestToday) May 12, 2024
Despite its challenges, this route remains the preferred choice for climbers seeking to conquer the world’s tallest peak.
Kami Rita Sherpa’s Storied Career:
Kami Rita’s mountaineering journey began in 1994 when he first summited Everest. Since then, he has scaled the peak almost every year, showcasing his unwavering dedication and expertise.
Last year alone, Kami Rita achieved the remarkable feat of summiting Everest twice, further solidifying his status as a legend in the climbing world.
Nepal’s Thriving Mountaineering Industry:
As UK mountaineer Kenton Cool breaks own Mount Everest record, mountaineering serves as a cornerstone of Nepal’s tourism industry, providing both revenue and employment opportunities.
With eight of the world’s 14 tallest peaks located in Nepal, including Everest, the country attracts climbers from around the globe.
This year, Nepal issued 414 permits to climbers, each costing $11,000.
