In May 2025, I stood on the summit of Everest, the highest point on Earth at 8,848 m. It was the fifth peak in my Seven Summits journey, and without a doubt the most demanding climb I've done.
I ascended via the South Col route, a well-established but punishing path through icefalls, high camps, and the death zone. The weeks of preparation and acclimatisation included a successful summit of Lobuche East, which gave me a much-needed confidence boost.
Summit day was brutal. The altitude stripped every bit of energy, and I was completely spent by the time I reached the top. The cold was biting, the wind never let up, and every step past 8,000 m was a mental and physical grind. But I made it, pushed through the pain, the exhaustion, and the altitude, and reached the summit.
Everest wasn’t just another peak; it was a marker. It proved I had the endurance and mindset to operate in extreme high-altitude environments. It set the tone for what’s next - Vinson, Aconcagua, and the Poles.
Every climb before Everest prepared me for this. And Everest prepared me for everything after.
This is the most ambitious and challenging stage of Ian’s journey — and the most visible opportunity for your brand. Partner with Ian to be part of a world-class feat of endurance, broadcast through media coverage, live updates, and post-expedition events
Exclusive South Pole Opportunities:
Platinum Partner: £25,000
Prime logo placement on sled, clothing, and gear; top billing in all South Pole media content.
Raising £100,000 for veterans’ mental health through expeditions to the world’s highest peaks and most remote poles.
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