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Nepali guides set new Everest records
A pair of veteran Nepali mountaineers have rewritten the history books by breaking their own records for the most ascents of Mount Everest. Kami Rita Sherpa, 56, reached the 8,849-meter summit for the 32nd time on Sunday, while Lhakpa Sherpa, 52, completed her 11th ascent-the highest number by any female climber.
Kami Rita Sherpa: The 'Everest Man'
Known as the "Everest Man," Kami Rita first stood atop the world's tallest peak in 1994. Since then, he has summited nearly every year, occasionally making two ascents in a single season. Born in Nepal's Solukhumbu region to a family of climbers, he became the first person to reach Everest 22 times in 2018, surpassing his own previous record of 21 shared with two other Sherpa guides.
On Sunday, he guided clients for the 14 Peaks Expedition company during his record-breaking climb.
Lhakpa Sherpa: The 'Mountain Queen'
Lhakpa Sherpa, dubbed the "Mountain Queen," first conquered Everest in 2000, becoming the first Nepali woman to successfully summit and descend the peak. Her life and climbing career are the focus of the 2023 documentary Mountain Queen, which also highlights her journey as a single mother.
Busy season raises safety concerns
This year's climbing season has seen unprecedented activity, with nearly 500 foreign climbers securing permits to attempt Everest. Most rely on Nepali guides, who are exempt from permit requirements. However, delays in opening the route-caused by a hazardous glacier section near Base Camp-have sparked concerns about potential overcrowding and safety risks on the mountain.
Nepal celebrates historic achievements
Both climbers received congratulations from Nepal's tourism department for their "historic achievement." Prime Minister Balendra Shah also praised their accomplishments on social media, calling their success a testament to "unwavering courage, rigorous self-discipline, and honest dedication."
"Such historic success can only be achieved through unwavering courage, rigorous self-discipline, and honest dedication to one's work."
Nepali Prime Minister Balendra Shah
