Light At The End Of The Tunnel

Last night I went to listen to a talk by the mountaineer Chris Bonington.  Excellent, inspiring and brilliantly presented. If you ever want to ask anyone about risk management, he would be a good contender.  I was impressed that he believed his worst mistake in climbing was when he was aged 70, dropped 50m when he was winter climbing in Scotland with his brother.  I can imagine the kind of weather he experienced during that climb, but climbing at age 70!! Even better is that next year he is trekking up to Everest basecamp.  He will be 75 I think.  I only wish that at that age I have his health, energy and wits.

It wasn’t all brilliant he did admit to being ruthless and ambitious during his career, but I imagine you have to be to achieve the kind of climbs and expeditions he has. I think his views on the mega groups he sees climbing Everest now, were spot on. Saying he wouldn’t deny anyone the right to climb/stagger up Everest however, the overriding rule should be safety, and concern for anyone injured regardless of which group/nationality/creed. A wise view from a man who has been there and done that.