Two British climbers have made history on the world's highest peak, proving that experience and tradition still matter in an age of commercial expeditions. 'Everest Man' Kenton Cool, 48, has scaled Everest for the 18th time, breaking his own record for the most ascents by a non-Sherpa. Meanwhile, 'Mountain Queen' Lhakpa Sherpa, a British resident originally from Nepal, has claimed her 11th summit, the most for any woman.
Their achievements come as mountaineering faces scrutiny over overcrowding, safety and the rising cost of climbing permits. For Cool, a veteran guide, his latest ascent was a quiet affair. 'It's not about the number, it's about the mountain and the people,' he said from base camp.
'Every time is different.' Lhakpa, who works as a cleaner in Connecticut to fund her climbs, said she hopes to inspire others. 'I want to show that if you work hard, you can achieve your dreams.
' But their success also highlights the widening gap between high-end guided expeditions and budget climbers. The cost of a permit alone has risen to £11,000, plus gear, guides and logistics. 'It's becoming a rich person's game,' said one Kathmandu-based agent.
'The real workers, the Sherpas, they take the risks for a fraction of that.' Cool and Lhakpa's records are a reminder that the British have a deep tradition on Everest, from Hillary's first ascent to today's routine summits. But as the mountain becomes a bucket-list tick box, the question remains: at what cost?
