Kami Rita, a 55-year-old Sherpa guide, is attempting to climb Mount Everest for a record-breaking 31st time. He climbed the 8,849-meter (29,032-foot) peak twice last May.
Rita flew from Kathmandu to lead a group of climbers during the spring climbing season and says he is in peak physical condition.
Rita holds the current record of 30 ascents, with his closest competitor, Pasang Dawa, having summited 27 times.
Full Story
Veteran Sherpa guide Kami Rita is aiming to scale Mount Everest for a record 31st time, breaking his own record for the most ascents of the world’s highest peak.
The 55-year-old flew from Kathmandu to Everest on Sunday, April 20, to lead a group of climbers during the spring climbing season, The Associated Press reports.
“I am mentally, emotionally and physically prepared to climb the mountain,” Rita said at Kathmandu’s airport. “I am in my top physical condition right now.”
Rita, who climbed the 8,849-meter (29,032-foot) peak twice last May, said his immediate priority is guiding his clients to the summit. “Then I will decide on whether I will climb the peak more than one time during the season,” he said, adding, “It depends on the weather and conditions on the mountain.”
Rita first summited Everest in 1994 and has returned nearly every year since, becoming a symbol of Sherpa endurance and expertise. Sherpas play a crucial role in the success and safety of foreign climbers attempting to reach the top of Everest each season.
His closest rival, fellow Sherpa guide Pasang Dawa, has reached the summit 27 times.
Nepal’s Department of Tourism has issued permits to 214 climbers for Everest ascents from the Nepali side this spring. The season typically runs through May, when weather conditions in the Himalayas are most favorable.
Ella and the staff at Clear Media Project (CMP) curate these articles.
Unless otherwise noted CMP does not write these articles.
The views, thoughts, and opinions expressed in the articles published on this blog belong solely to the original authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the blog owner. The blog owner does not claim ownership of the content shared by contributors and is not responsible for any inaccuracies, errors, or omissions.
All rights and credits goes to its rightful owners. No Copyright Infringement is intended. If you believe any content infringes on your rights, please contact us for review and potential removal.
