British Climber Kenton Cool Sets Record with 19th Everest Ascent

British climber Kenton Cool has set a new record by summiting Mount Everest for the 19th time, the highest number of ascents by a non-Sherpa guide. At 52, Cool reached the 8,849-meter summit via the Southeast Ridge route alongside Sherpa guide Dorji Gyaljen, who marked his 23rd summit. Cool's Everest climbs began in 2004 and have continued almost annually except for interruptions due to tragic events and the pandemic. Meanwhile, India's National Cadet Corps successfully completed an Everest expedition with 38 climbers, including cadets and Sherpa guides. Additionally, photojournalist Purnima Shrestha made her fifth ascent of Everest, reaffirming her status as one of Nepal's most accomplished female climbers. These achievements highlight both individual excellence and the continuing popularity of Everest expeditions involving climbers from diverse backgrounds.