British mountaineer Kenton Cool has accomplished an impressive feat by summiting Mount Everest for the 19th time, setting a new record for the most climbs up the world’s tallest mountain for a non-sherpa. The 51-year-old reached the 8,849m (29,000ft) high summit at 11:00 local time (04:15 GMT) on Sunday, accompanied by Nepali sherpa Dorji Gyaljen. Mr Cool’s journey began in 2004 and he has continued to conquer Everest almost every year since then.
Dorji Gyaljen, the Nepali sherpa who accompanied Mr Cool, recorded his 23rd climb up Everest during this expedition. Meanwhile, another esteemed sherpa, Kami Rita, holds the record for the highest number of Everest summits at 30 and is currently on the mountain striving to establish a new milestone. This climb by Mr Cool comes in the wake of the tragic deaths of two climbers – Subrata Ghosh from India and Philipp “PJ” Santiago II from the Philippines on Mount Everest this past week.
Despite his remarkable achievement, Mr Cool has remained humble, acknowledging the numerous Nepali climbers who have surpassed his record. In an interview following his 16th Everest ascent in 2022, he expressed surprise at the attention his record has garnered, recognizing the incredible accomplishments of the sherpas. Prior to his latest summit, Mr Cool shared on Instagram that he had received a positive weather forecast, allowing him to proceed with the climb, while hoping for a safe and enjoyable experience on the mountain.
Colleagues and fellow climbers have lauded Mr Cool for his accomplishment, highlighting his valuable contribution to the Everest community. American adventurer Adrian Ballinger commended Mr Cool’s experience, charisma, and strength, emphasizing his significant role in the mountaineering world. Mostafa Salameh, a Jordanian mountaineer with a remarkable mountaineering history of his own, congratulated Mr Cool on his achievement. Additionally, Mr Cool’s role as a mountain guide, having led renowned explorer Sir Ranulph Fiennes and others on notable climbs, further solidifies his position as a respected figure in the climbing community
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