Kami Rita Sherpa Sets Everest Record with 30 Ascents
Veteran Nepalese mountaineer Kami Rita Sherpa has achieved an extraordinary milestone by climbing Mount Everest for the 30th time. The 54-year-old Sherpa completed his historic ascent on Wednesday, utilizing the traditional southeast ridge route. This remarkable achievement follows his previous ascent just ten days earlier, demonstrating an exceptional feat in the mountaineering world, and making him the person who has summited Everest the most among all climbers.
Kami Rita began his journey to the top of the world in May 1994, inspired by his father, who had worked as a climbing guide but never reached the summit himself. His first climb was for a commercial expedition, and since then, he has made it to the top almost every year, barring the three years when Nepalese authorities restricted climbing. Over his career, Kami Rita has also summited other notable peaks, such as K2, which stands as the second-highest mountain in the world.
In an interview, Kami Rita reflected on his record-setting achievements, emphasizing that his goal was not to set records but simply to work. He aspires to continue climbing until he is 60 years old. Notably, in his 2020 guidebook 'How to Climb Everest', he emphasized the need for humility and physical strength in successful climbs, regardless of one's expertise.
Nepal, a prominent destination for high-altitude mountaineering, issued 419 permits this spring season for Everest climbs, with more than 600 climbers reaching the summit. However, this season also saw a record number of 18 deaths, underlining the ongoing challenges and dangers of tackling the world's highest peak.
- Kami Rita's continuous success brings praise and recognition to Nepal as a destination for mountaineering enthusiasts globally, playing a pivotal role in promoting the country.
- The achievement also sheds light on the essential role of the Sherpa community in high-altitude mountaineering. Traditionally, Sherpas assist climbers from preparation through to ascent and descent, ensuring safer expeditions in the harsh conditions of high peaks.
- Despite the success stories, the 2023 climbing season on Everest has been marked by increased fatalities. This trend emphasizes the inherent risks and the need for comprehensive preparation and support for all climbers attempting the summit.
