RECORD-BREAKING ASCENT ON MOUNT EVEREST

British climber Kenton Cool has set a new record by summiting Mount Everest for the 19th time, the most ascents by any non-Sherpa climber. At 51 years old, Cool reached the 8,849-meter (29,032-foot) peak on May 18, 2025, accompanied by other climbers. He first climbed Everest in 2004 and has done so nearly every year since, except for 2014, 2015, and 2020 due to an avalanche, an earthquake, and the COVID-19 pandemic, respectively. Cool announced plans to return in 2026 to achieve his 20th or even 21st summit before focusing on other mountains in Nepal. While his climb was smooth this season, Cool observed increasing congestion on the mountain and emphasized the need for responsible participation in mountaineering, though he does not support limiting climber numbers. Only Nepali Sherpas have made more ascents than Cool, with Kami Rita currently holding the record at 30. The spring climbing season, which attracts hundreds of climbers, will end soon as the monsoon season approaches, bringing hazardous conditions.