An 18-year-old climber from Nepal has become the youngest person to climb all 14 of the highest peaks on Earth.
He is Nima Rinji Sherpa, who set the record after also reaching the summit of Tibet’s Sisapangma mountain on Wednesday, October 9, the Independent reports.
After his historic feat, Nima expressed his desire to change the world’s perception of the Sherpa people of Nepal – who are the people from the Everest region.
“I dedicate this world record to the Sherpa people #SherpaPower. Winning this summit is not only a personal goal of mine, but also a tribute to every Sherpa who has ever dared to dream beyond the “traditional” limits set for them. Mountaineering is more than work; it is a testament to our strength, resilience and passion,” Nima wrote on Instagram.
Nepalese climbers, particularly the Sherpa people, are particularly important to the Himalayan mountaineering industry, as they operate equipment, fix ropes in the mountains and support international expeditions. However, they are not particularly known for their own achievements, something that 18-year-old Nima wants to change
“We’re not just guides, we’re pioneers. Let this be a call to every Sherpa to see the dignity in our work, the strength in our heritage and the limitless possibilities in our future.”
Nima, who took up mountaineering at 16, had previously set other records, climbing the peaks of Everest and Lhotse in 10 hours. He was accompanied on his latest adventure by his climbing partner Pasang Numu Sherpa.
Climbing all 14 “eight thousand” (peaks higher than 8000m) is considered the pinnacle of mountaineering ambition.
Climbers cross “death zones” in order to conquer the peaks, where oxygen levels are too low to sustain human life for long periods of time.
“To humanity as a whole: let this climb remind us that the peaks we reach together, united, are far greater than any individual achievement,” Nima wrote after achieving the world record. “As a teenager, seeing the division caused by borders, wars, racism and other conflicts, I call for love, respect and harmony among all people,” the 18-year-old said.
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