British and Nepali Climbers Set New Records on Mount Everest

A British climber and a Nepali guide have set new records for the most climbs of Mount Everest, the world's tallest mountain, according to hiking officials on Sunday.

Rakesh Gurung, the director of Nepal's Department of Tourism, announced that Kenton Cool, 50, from Britain, and Kami Rita Sherpa, 54, from Nepal, successfully reached the 8,849-meter (29,032-foot) summit for the 18th and 29th time, respectively.

They were leading their clients on different expeditions.

Garrett Madison from Madison Mountaineering, a U.S.-based expedition organizing company, was impressed by the Nepali climber's endurance, saying, "He just keeps going and going... amazing guy!"

In 2014, Madison partnered with Kami Rita to conquer the peaks of Everest, Lhotse, and K2.

K2, situated in Pakistan, stands as the second highest mountain on Earth, while Lhotse in Nepal ranks as the fourth tallest.

Lukas Furtenbach from Furtenbach Adventures praised Kenton Cool's remarkable achievement. According to Furtenbach, Kenton Cool is a key figure in the Everest guiding industry and is considered an institution. Both climbers successfully reached the summit using the Southeast Ridge route.

The route to the Everest summit, pioneered by Sir Edmund Hillary and Sherpa Tenzing Norgay in 1953, is still the most commonly used path by climbers.

Kami Rita successfully climbed Everest for the first time in 1994 and has continued to do so almost every year, with the exception of three years when the mountain was closed by authorities for different reasons.

Mountain climbing is a popular activity in Nepal, which is home to eight of the world's 14 tallest peaks, including Mount Everest. Last year, he climbed the mountain twice. This activity not only attracts tourists but also provides a source of income and employment for the locals.

Nepal has issued 414 permits, each costing $11,000 to climbers for the climbing season that ends this month.

Editor's P/S:

The relentless determination and unwavering spirits of Kenton Cool and Kami Rita Sherpa are a testament to the indomitable human spirit. Their extraordinary feats exemplify the transformative power of passion, perseverance, and the pursuit of dreams. Cool's 18th ascent of Mount Everest cements his status as a legendary figure in the Everest guiding industry, while Sherpa's 29th summit reinforces his incredible endurance and resilience. Their achievements not only inspire awe but also underscore the importance of embracing challenges and pushing boundaries.

It's equally remarkable to note that mountain climbing plays a vital role in Nepal's economy and community. With eight of the world's 14 highest peaks, Nepal attracts countless climbers, generating revenue and providing employment opportunities for locals. The issuance of 414 permits, each costing $11,000, highlights the economic significance of this activity. It's a testament to the symbiotic relationship between adventure tourism and the well-being of local communities.