Nepalese Sherpa Kami Rita, hailed as one of the greatest mountain guides of all time, has once again etched his name in the annals of mountaineering history. On Tuesday, he successfully reached the summit of Mount Everest for a record-breaking 28th time, surpassing his own previous record set just a week before. At 53 years old, Kami Rita shows no signs of slowing down, declaring, “I will continue to climb as long as my body allows.”
After descending from the mountain, Kami Rita was greeted with a hero’s welcome at Kathmandu’s airport, where he expressed his gratitude to supporters and family members. Despite his remarkable achievements, he humbly stated that his goal is not to compete for records but to assist his foreign clients in their quest to conquer the world’s highest peak.
Kami Rita’s incredible journey began in 1994 when he first summited Everest. Since then, he has embarked on this formidable expedition nearly every year, establishing himself as an indispensable figure in the mountaineering community. Born into a family of Sherpa guides, he follows in the footsteps of his father, who was among the pioneering Sherpas.
The race for the record intensified this year when fellow Sherpa guide Pasang Dawa equaled Kami Rita’s 27 climbs. However, Kami Rita swiftly reclaimed the title, reaching the summit just three days later. This friendly competition among Sherpas showcases their exceptional skills and expertise, which are crucial for the safety and success of foreign climbers who aspire to conquer Everest.
Kami Rita’s mountaineering prowess extends beyond Everest. He has conquered numerous other formidable peaks, including K2, Cho Oyu, Manaslu, and Lhotse, solidifying his reputation as one of the world’s most accomplished climbers. His dedication and unwavering spirit serve as an inspiration to aspiring mountaineers worldwide.
As the climbing season comes to a close, Kami Rita’s next ascent will have to wait until next spring. However, his determination remains unyielding. With the 70th anniversary of the first Everest ascent approaching, his extraordinary achievements serve as a reminder of the enduring spirit of adventure and exploration.
Kami Rita’s story embodies the indomitable human spirit and the pursuit of excellence. With each step he takes, he paves the way for future generations of climbers, leaving an indelible mark on the world of mountaineering. As the legend of Kami Rita continues to grow, the world eagerly awaits his next remarkable feat, ready to witness history being made once again on the majestic slopes of Everest.