Kami Rita Sherpa Breaks His Own World Record
Nepali mountaineer Kami Rita Sherpa has shattered his own world record by successfully summiting Mount Everest for the 29th time.
"Kami Rita, 54, reached the summit on Thursday morning," confirmed Mingma Sherpa, Managing Director of Seven Summit Treks, a Nepal-based mountaineering company.
A Seasoned Mountaineer
Rita, known as the "Everest Man," has been guiding climbers for over two decades. He first summitted Everest in 1994 while working for a commercial expedition. Since then, he has scaled the world's highest peak nearly every year.
Born in 1970 in Thame, a Himalayan village renowned for producing elite climbers, Rita belongs to the Sherpa ethnic group. Sherpas play a vital role in Nepal's mountaineering industry due to their ability to function at high altitudes and low oxygen levels.
Nepal's Spring Climbing Season
This spring's climbing season, which runs from April to June, has seen Nepal issue 414 permits for Everest ascents. Most climbers rely on Nepali guides, bringing the total number of people attempting the summit to over 800.
Nepal, home to eight of the world's 10 highest peaks, has long been a magnet for adventure seekers. Spring offers ideal climbing conditions with warmer temperatures and reduced wind speeds.
However, the surge in climbers in recent years has raised concerns about environmental impact and safety. The Supreme Court of Nepal recently ordered a cap on the number of permits issued for Everest and other peaks.
Summary
Kami Rita Sherpa has cemented his legacy as one of the greatest climbers of all time by setting a new world record for the most Everest summits. His achievement is a testament to the skill and endurance of the Sherpa people, who play a crucial role in Nepal's thriving mountaineering industry.