Apa Sherpa

Apa Sherpa, born Lhakpa Tenzing Sherpa on January 20, 1960, is a renowned Nepalese mountaineer, affectionately known as "Super Sherpa." His remarkable career is highlighted by his record-setting ascents of Mount Everest, where he reached the summit twenty-one times, a feat he achieved by 2011. This extraordinary journey began in 1990, and after his final ascent in May 2011, he chose to retire, honoring a promise made to his wife to prioritize family over the risks of climbing.

Throughout his illustrious career, Apa Sherpa has become a legendary figure in the world of high-altitude climbing. He has traversed the treacherous Khumbu Icefall approximately one thousand times, showcasing his unparalleled experience and dedication to the sport. His connection to the Everest legacy is further enriched by his encounters with the iconic Edmund Hillary and his participation in the 1990 expedition alongside Peter Hillary, marking a significant milestone for both father and son.

Despite his numerous achievements, Apa Sherpa remains grounded, often reflecting on the dangers of mountaineering. When asked about his decision to stop climbing after twenty-one summits, he expressed, "Everyone says 21 is a good number. I have to make my family happy. Every time I go, they worry because Everest is very risky." His commitment to family and safety underscores the human side of this extraordinary athlete.

As of 2017, Apa Sherpa held the joint world record for the most summits of Mount Everest, alongside Phurba Tashi and Kami Rita Sherpa. However, this record was surpassed in 2018 by Kami Rita Sherpa, marking a new chapter in the annals of mountaineering history. Apa's legacy, however, remains firmly established, inspiring countless climbers and adventurers around the globe.